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Erskine Hawkins

Jazz composer and bandleader

Died when: 79 years 108 days (951 months)
Star Sign: Leo

 

Erskine Hawkins

Erskine Ramsay Hawkins (July 26, 1914 – November 11, 1993) was an American trumpeter and big band leader from Birmingham, Alabama, dubbed "The 20th Century Gabriel".

He is best remembered for composing the jazz standard "Tuxedo Junction" (1939) with saxophonist and arranger Bill Johnson.The song became a hit during World War II, rising to No. 7 nationally (version by the Erskine Hawkins Orchestra) and to No. 1 nationally (version by the Glenn Miller Orchestra).

Vocalists who were featured with Erskine's orchestra include Ida James, Delores Brown, and Della Reese.Hawkins was named after Alabama industrialist Erskine Ramsay.


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