Loading articles...

Ronnie Hawkins: A look at the life of one of rockabilly's most colourful characters

Last Updated May 29, 2022 at 12:30 pm MDT

Here’s a look at the life and career of Ronnie Hawkins, who died Sunday at age 87:

— Born in Huntsville, Ark., on Jan. 10, 1935.

— Influenced careers and lives of countless musicians including Robbie Robertson and other members of the Band, John Lennon, Kris Kristofferson, and Beverly D’Angelo.

— Recorded over 25 albums including “The Hawk and Rock,” recorded live in London, England in 1982.

— Awards include a Juno for best country male vocalist in 1982.

— Hosted a number of television shows including “Honky Tonk” in the early 1980s.

— Acting credits include “Heaven’s Gate” and the Bob Dylan-produced pseudo-documentary “Renaldo and Clara,” in which Hawkins played the part of Dylan. 

This report by The Canadian Press was first published May 29, 2022.

The Canadian Press