Screamin’ Jay Hawkins is, as far as I’m concerned, the greatest, well, screamer in all of rock ‘n’ roll. I’m not usually a fan of schtick or gimmickry, but GOD do I love this man.
Legend has it that “I Put A Spell On You” was written as a slow, soulful ballad, but when frustration in the recording studio boiled over and the bourbon came out, an intoxicated Hawkins started grunting and screaming from a place down deep inside himself that, frankly, I’ve never been to, and don’t know if I ever want to. He had wanted to be an opera singer, like Paul Robeson, but as soon as people heard this CRAZY SHIT that he was making that was all they wanted. And he soaked it up, the music, the glory – by the time he died, the number of his illegitimate children was estimated at anywhere from 50 to 75.
Here are a few songs of his: “Yellow Coat,” and “I Put A Spell On You,” which I’m sure you’ve heard, even if you don’t think you have. All you lovers out there, listen up: Put this on your next mix CD for your girlfriend or boyfriend and I guarantee they’ll love you forever. If they don’t, then dump their ass as quickly as you can – dating someone who doesn’t understand Screamin’ Jay isn’t worth your time.
And as an extra bonus, I’ll throw in Jeff Buckley’s cover of “Alligator Wine”. I love Jeff Buckley as much as anyone else, but this might be one of my favorite songs of his; not only is his impression spot-on, but you can also hear how much bloody FUN he’s having. And speaking of fun, check out this video of Screamin’ on some 1980s music show – this is after more than 30 years of playing “Spell,” and he’s having a blast.
Screamin’ Jay Hawkins – I Put A Spell On You
