Stevie Hawkins, a highly acclaimed blues and soul singer and drummer, has etched his name in the annals of music history with his exceptional talent and captivating performances. With a rich and powerful voice that effortlessly resonates with his audience, Hawkins is a revered figure in the music industry.
Hawkins' musical journey began at a very young age in Knoxville, Tennessee, where he spent countless hours studying music and honing his skills as a drummer and vocalist while immersing himself in the rich sounds of blues and soul. This dedication to his craft ultimately led him to the forefront of the music scene, where he was called upon to play drums for blues icons Albert King, John Lee Hooker, Leon Russell, Rufus Thomas, James Cotton, Chick Willis, William "Chico" Crawford, Wayne "Bear" Sauls, Reddog, Sammy Blue "The Crowned Prince of the Blues", Eddie Tigner, among others.
Not only did he use the blues masters’ recordings as a stepping stone to develop and refine his own style of singing and drumming; but in fact, he learned directly from them, played with them and interacted with the blues masters.
With a string of accomplishments under his belt, including being recipient of a prestigious GRAMMY® Award, Stevie Hawkins stands out as an artist of unparalleled caliber. His extraordinary contributions to the blues music genres have not only garnered critical acclaim but also earned him multiple blues awards, including being a 2024 Blues Hall of Fame "Legendary Blues Artist" Inductee, solidifying his position as a true icon of the art form.
Stevie is revered and respected as a drummer. Blues icon Albert King once said, "Stevie Hawkins is the funkiest; keep it in the pocket groove drummer alive." James Brown, The Godfather of Soul, claimed, "You're a feel-good drummer, Stevie." Bob Burns, the original drummer for Lynyrd Skynyrd, conveyed, "Me, I am a Skynyrd drummer. Stevie Hawkins, he's a drummer's drummer." Country music legend Suzy Bogguss stated at a concert performance in Branson, Missouri, "Never in my life have I heard a drummer play melodically with the vocalist. I am stunned. Stevie is an amazing master artist of the drums." And the list goes on of those who have endorsed Stevie Hawkins as a drummer.
Over the years, Hawkins has been a sought-after guest for radio interviews, where he shares his journey and insights into his creative process. His compelling personality and profound storytelling ability have made him a favorite among interviewers and listeners alike. Stevie's album releases have not only received multiple awards and media attention but have also garnered a wave of positive reviews from industry experts and critics. His innovative approach to songwriting and undeniable talent have been widely lauded for their authenticity and emotional resonance.
In a world where the music industry is constantly evolving, Stevie Hawkins has firmly established himself as an award-winning recording artist with his enduring talent and unwavering passion for creating exceptional music. He remains an influential figure in the world of music, inspiring generations to come with his outstanding contributions to the blues and soul genres. The blues chose Hawkins, and he's sure as heck not going to let it down.
Tommy Cox, a guitarist and vocalist known for his mesmerizing skills and unique playing style, was born with an insatiable love for the blues, and from a young age in Tazewell, Virginia, he found himself captivated by the soulful melodies and raw emotion that defined the genre. Inspired by legendary blues artists such as Muddy Waters, B.B. King, and Stevie Ray Vaughan, Cox has dedicated himself to mastering the guitar and creating his own distinctive style and sound.
Cox began performing on the blues scene in 1992 with his trio Tommy C and The Blue Hounds, touring across the South-Eastern United States. As an artist, he has released a total of nine albums in the styles of blues, surf, and gospel. In a Blues Blast Magazine review of Tommy’s album, “Acoustic Blues,” reviewer Rhys Williams remarked, “Something of a master class in country blues styles… It is apparent throughout the album that Cox has a authentically solid sound and technique… His guitar playing really grabs the listener’s attention, with a powerful, muscular assertiveness… No track overstays its welcome and as it ends, you are left wanting more. Acoustic Blues is a very enjoyable slice of acoustic blues and is highly recommended.”
Tommy's guitar playing has reverberated through crowds as he shared concert stages with esteemed artists such as George Thorogood, Bob Margolin, Johnny Hiland, the legendary Nighthawks, and others. These collaborations not only elevated his career but cemented his status as a respected figure and musician in the blues community.
Tommy’s style is a harmonious blend of soulful melodies, fiery riffs, and intricate techniques. With each guitar riff, Tommy channels his deepest senses, weaving soul-stirring stories through his music. His effortless control over the instrument allows him to convey a wide range of emotions, taking listeners on a captivating journey. His ability to blend various styles of blues with astonishing technical prowess mesmerizes audiences, making him a celebrated figure in the blues genre.
His dedication to preserving and evolving the blues tradition remains an inspiration for aspiring musicians and a tribute to the enduring power of this timeless genre. Tommy's ability to seamlessly infuse blues with elements of rock, jazz, and funk is a testament to his versatility and artistic vision. A true guitar maestro, Tommy Cox continues to redefine the boundaries of blues guitar, leaving an indelible mark on the rich history of the blues genre.
Steve Carr, hailing from the vibrant music scene of Fort Worth, Texas, is an extraordinary bassist and vocalist who has consistently elevated his career to new heights. With his unparalleled talent and unwavering dedication, Steve has become a force to be reckoned with in the music industry.
The pulse-pounding bass lines of Steve Carr have electrified venues of all sizes, from hole-in-the-wall dives to sold-out big stage concert halls. With an inimitable groove that's equal parts grit and soul, Carr lays down the rhythmic foundation for spellbinding shows that linger in the memory. Sharing the stage and studio with legends Johnny Winter, Ruthie Foster, and Uncle John Turner, Carr complemented these iconic artists with his singular flair. Seamlessly fusing technical mastery and creative passion, Carr's bass playing captures the imagination and compels you to move. When he's locked in the pocket, there's simply no stopping the hypnotic musical force of Steve Carr.
With one pluck of a string, Carr unleashes the raw power of the blues, channeling legends like Muddy Waters and Howlin' Wolf. This man was born with blue notes running through his veins. His thundering bass lines don't just groove - they command you to move. He boasts the kind of rhythmic, tonal, and melodic mastery that has earned him a seat among the blues bass greats. When Carr's fingers hit the fretboard, get ready for a spell-binding joyride through blues history. He doesn't just play the blues - he lives and breathes them with every fiber of his being.
When Carr steps on stage, the man's got a magnetic presence that pulls you in. But his passion for the blues goes way beyond just performing. This man is all about keeping the genre alive. He's out there mentoring young musicians, dropping knowledge bombs, sharing his expertise. Carr wants to make sure the blues legacy lives on, and he's doing everything he can to make that happen. The man bleeds blue. He eats, sleeps and breathes this music. With mentors like him around, the future of blues music is looking bright.
Steve Carr's remarkable talent as a blues bassist continues to captivate audiences, leaving an undeniable imprint on the world of music. His contribution to the blues genre is immeasurable, and his legacy will forever resonate in the hearts of music lovers worldwide. In essence, Steve Carr's biography is a testament to his exceptional talent as a bassist, vocalist, and all-around musical maestro.
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