Screamin' Jay Hawkins

Jalacy 'Screamin' Jay' Hawkins (1929–2000) was an American rhythm-and-blues singer best known for his 1956 recording 'I Put a Spell on You' and for theatrical, voodoo-inflected live performances featuring a skull named Henry and appearances from a coffin. He began recording in the early 1950s and remained an eccentric live presence until his death in 2000 in Paris.

Signature song: 'I Put a Spell on You' (1956). Stage props included a skull called Henry and a coffin; noted for loud screams and theatrical voodoo imagery. Died in Paris in 2000; his body was cremated and his ashes were scattered over the Atlantic Ocean (as reported in contemporary accounts and the DeBaser review).

Three DeBaser reviews praise Screamin' Jay Hawkins for his vocal power and theatrical shows. They highlight 'I Put a Spell on You' as his signature song and his penchant for voodoo-themed stagecraft. Albums discussed include At Home with Screamin' Jay Hawkins, Cow Fingers & Mosquito Pie and a live EP with the Fuzztones.

For:Fans of early R&B, blues, rock'n'roll, theatrical stage shows and collectors of eccentric recordings.