Hawkshaw Hawkins, born on December 22, 1921, in Huntington, West Virginia, was an American country singer who gained popularity in the 1950s. His real name was Harold Franklin Hawkins, but he earned the nickname "Hawkshaw" due to his keen sense of observation. He developed a passion for music at a young age and began singing in talent competitions when he was just sixteen years old.
In the late 1930s, Hawkins began working on radio stations WSAZ-AM and WCHS-AM, where he honed his vocal skills and gained experience performing for live audiences. His smooth voice and charismatic stage presence quickly caught the attention of country music fans across the United States.
In 1943, Hawkins joined the U.S. Army during World War II. Despite his military duties as an engineer, he continued to pursue his musical career, performing at local clubs and entertaining fellow soldiers with his singing talents.
After his service in the army, Hawkins returned to the music scene with a renewed determination to succeed. His breakthrough came with the release of his hit single "Lonesome 7-7203" in 1963, which topped the US Country charts and catapulted him to fame.
Despite his rising success, Hawkins remained grounded and devoted to his family. He was married to his wife Jean Shepard, a fellow country music artist, until his untimely death in 1963. The couple had one adopted daughter and two sons, with Jean pregnant with their second son at the time of Hawkins' tragic passing.
Hawkins' life was cut short in a devastating aircraft accident that also claimed the lives of country music legends Patsy Cline and Cowboy Copas. The music world mourned the loss of these talented artists, whose legacies continue to inspire new generations of musicians.
Hawkshaw Hawkins' impact on country music remains profound, with his soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics resonating with audiences around the world. He is remembered as a true pioneer of the genre, whose contributions continue to be celebrated by fans and fellow artists alike.
Hawkshaw Hawkins may have left us too soon, but his music lives on, touching the hearts of listeners with its timeless appeal. His legacy as a beloved country singer and member of the Grand Ole Opry continues to inspire new generations of artists to follow in his footsteps and make their mark on the world of music.