We have a collection of 3 arrangements for Erskine Hawkins - Tuxedo Junction
Did you know Glenn Miller's famous version overshadowed Erskine Hawkins' original composition? Learn!
Erskine Hawkins was a highly influential American trumpeter, composer, and bandleader known for his contributions to the big band and swing jazz genres. He gained widespread fame for his hit song "Tuxedo Junction," which became a classic in the swing era. Here are some interesting facts about Erskine Hawkins and the famous tune:
Early Life: Erskine Hawkins was born on July 26, 1914, in Birmingham, Alabama. He started playing the trumpet at a young age and showed remarkable talent early on.
The Bama State Collegians: Hawkins formed his first band, the Bama State Collegians, while he was still a student at Alabama State Teachers College (now Alabama State University). The band gained popularity locally and eventually became a professional outfit.
"Tuxedo Junction": Hawkins and his orchestra recorded "Tuxedo Junction" in 1939. The song's title referred to a jazz and blues nightspot in the Birmingham area where black and white musicians would congregate during the racially segregated 1920s and 1930s. The song became a major hit and a signature piece for Hawkins.
Chart Success: "Tuxedo Junction" reached number 7 on the Billboard pop chart in 1940 and remained on the charts for 26 weeks. It became one of the most popular and enduring songs of the swing era.
Legacy: The success of "Tuxedo Junction" catapulted Hawkins and his band to national prominence. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years and remains a classic in the big band repertoire.
Influence: Hawkins' smooth and melodic trumpet style influenced many other musicians of his time. His music had a significant impact on the development of the swing and big band genres.
Later Career: Hawkins continued to perform and record throughout his career, maintaining a loyal fan base. He also experimented with different styles, including rhythm and blues, as musical tastes evolved over the years.
Honors: Erskine Hawkins received various honors and awards during his lifetime, including inductions into the Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame and the Alabama Music Hall of Fame.
Erskine Hawkins' contributions to the world of jazz and his iconic composition, "Tuxedo Junction," have left an indelible mark on the history of music.