Jay Hawkins

Jay Hawkins, born Jalacy J. Hawkins on July 18, 1929, was an American singer-songwriter, musician, actor, film producer, and boxer. He gained fame for his powerful and operatic vocal delivery, as well as his wildly theatrical performances. Known for songs like 'I Put a Spell on You', Hawkins was an early pioneer of shock rock and often incorporated macabre props into his stage shows. In addition to his music career, Hawkins appeared in the 1989 indie film Mystery Train, for which he received a nomination for the Independent Spirit Award for Best Supporting Male. Born and raised in Cleveland, Ohio, Hawkins was adopted at a young age and studied classical piano and guitar throughout his life.