Hawkins, also known as The Hawk or Rompin ‘Ronnie, was born in Arkansas, but had called Canada his home for most of his life. His band The Hawks, which he formed during his time at the University of Arkansas, served as a nursery for many musicians.
The Hawk was known for his stage presence, his robust singing and humorous whims, including his characteristic “camel-walk” dance.
The Hawks eventually became The Band and the group collaborated with Bob Dylan on concert tours and on some studio albums. Ronnie Hawkins also starred in Bob Dylan’s 1975 film “Renaldo and Clara” in which he played the role of “Bob Dylan”.
The following year, The Bands’ farewell concert The Last Waltz became a documentary by Martin Scorsese. The Band was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1994.
Hawkins’ death is confirmed for the CBC television station by his wife Wanda, who says that “he died peacefully and looked as handsome as ever”.