Screamin’ Jay Hawkins

Screamin' Jay Hawkins was a wildly theatrical and outrageous performer in the early days of rock, known for his on-stage antics such as emerging from coffins with his flaming skull sidekick, Henry. Despite the unconventional nature of his performances, Hawkins struggled to find success initially, but eventually gained recognition with his iconic 1956 hit "I Put a Spell on You," which showcased his unique vocal style.

Hawkins' career was marked by eccentricities and unconventional choices, from his early days as a pianist/valet to jazz guitarist Tiny Grimes to his later film roles in movies like Mystery Train and A Rage in Harlem. While some of his follow-up songs after "I Put a Spell on You" did not achieve the same level of success, Hawkins continued to captivate audiences with his larger-than-life persona until his passing in 2000 at the age of 70.