Obituaries: Veteran Toronto Roots Musician and Raconteur Teddy Hawkins

Teddy Hawkins, a Toronto-based drummer, vocalist, songwriter and raconteur who worked in many different genres, died on March 22, of a heart attack, at age 69.

News of his passing was posted on Saturday by two of his close friends and musical comrades, Danny Marks and Lori Yates. Hawkins was scheduled to play a matinee show at Toronto club venue Castro's that day with Marks, who posted on Facebook that "Ted messaged me early today to say he was unwell. Within a couple of hours his roommate sent us the sad news."

Social media quickly responded with a flood of tributes to this hard-working musician, one of the most popular fixtures on the Toronto club circuit.

Hawkins was born and raised in Hamilton, but had based himself in Toronto in recent decades. In a Facebook tribute he provided to Billboard Canada, Toronto musician Mike Daley recalls that "Ted started in the '70s in show bands, in powder blue ruffled shirts and flared pants.

"In the '80s he started his own country band, Hocus Pocus, and I joined when I was 17. We played the diviest dive bars in Hamilton and Ted gave it all every night, belting out Conway Twitty’s 'It’s Only Make Believe' for the blackout drunks slumped over their two dollar drafts. We started a country cover band called Jack Diamond, loaded up the van and played the Ontario six-nighter circuit until that faded away, and then he moved to Toronto and kept on going, playing one-nighters. My time with Ted was an education; in how to lead a band, how to play classic country and rock and roll, and so much more."

Toronto bassist/producer Alec Fraser Jr. tells Billboard Canada that "I met Teddy in the mid '80s when he was on the country circuit under the name of Jack Diamond. When he sang George Jones numbers, it was like the country gods had blessed him and told us all he was worthy. Teddy had a huge vocal range and could swap harmonies on the fly with anyone. It’s a gift that not everyone has."

Former Hamilton Spectator music critic Bruce Mowat, a friend of Hawkins, informs that "Ted Hawkins was a journeyman player on the Southern Ontario country music circuit for decades, playing week long engagements in the darkest, dingiest dives known to man, in an era when it was still possible to do so. As Jack Diamond, he recorded material for Randall Cousins' Roto Noto label."

Hawkins earned a reputation as a tasteful drummer proficient in a wide range of genres, including country, jazz, rock 'n roll and R&B. He also possessed a soulful voice, one full of character, and excelled at both harmony and lead vocals. He took the latter role in the Toronto band he led, Thelonious Hank, and it was also showcased on the 1997 solo album he released (as Ted Hawkins), Music For 2.47 AM. Bruce Mowat describes that record as "a cannily, hand-picked collection of country, jazz, and blues material done up in a saloon singer mode."

One of his key projects, Thelonious Hank can be described as a merger of classic country and classic swing jazz. Formed around 2012, the group released one album, Walk Between The Raindrops, in 2017.

Hawkins performed extensively with two notable Hamilton honky-tonk artists, Scotty Campbell (in his band The Wardenaires) and Lori Yates (in her combo The Nashville Rejects), with his drumming and vocal chops and highly entertaining onstage showmanship put to good use.

Yates tells Billboard Canada that "I started playing with Ted in 2012 in Hamilton when I put together the first incarnation of the Nashville Rejects: Stephen Miller - guitar, Pete Sisk – bass, and Ted – drums, to back up my Johnny Cash – The Original Punk and Your Good Girls Gonna Go Bad shows in Hamilton.

"After Covid, that line-up called it quits except for Ted. I then put together the current Nashville Rejects: Nichol Robertson – guitar, Vivienne Wilder – bass, and Ted in T.O."

In recent years, Hawkins' other regular gigs on the Toronto scene included The Danny Marks Combo, The Hulagoons (led by Burke Carroll), Thelonious Hank, Lily Frost and Root Down Trio.

Featured in many of these groups was acclaimed Toronto guitarist Nichol Robertson. He recalls to Billboard Canada that "I played with Teddy for almost 20 years. It started with Scotty Campbell and The Wardenaires. That led to Thelonious Hank about 15 years ago, and we were together in The Hulagoons for probably 8 years. We backed everyone from Raul Malo of the Mavericks to Lily Frost to Lori Yates to Russell DeCarle to Mary Margaret O’Hara to Danny Marks."

It is testimony to Hawkin's tireless work ethic that he had two gigs scheduled for the day he passed, with Danny Marks and then rootsy combo Root Down Trio. The latter group posted on Facebook that "We have decided the show will go on as Teddy would insist and in his honour."

Hawkins' close friend and bandmate, Mike Daley, observed that "Teddy never hit ‘the big time’ but he always worked. He kept on mentoring young musicians along the way, too many to mention. And he did what he wanted to do, which was play music, every night if possible. He cultivated a shtick as a lovable loser but he won at life if the goal is to follow your dream. He just wanted to play, and play he did. Teddy Hawkins was one of a kind."

Teddy Hawkins was the epitome of a 'lifer,' a hard-working musician happiest when he was on the stage and one totally dedicated to his craft. On his Linkedin profile, he termed himself a self-employed musician for 52 years and 1 month, spanning from March 1973 to March 2025.

Aside from his prolific gigging, Hawkins also won friends and admirers via his social media presence. His posts on Facebook often explored political issues in a dark yet always witty fashion, and he made his political leanings very clear.

Here is a selection of just some of the many other tributes to Hawkins that have already been posted on Facebook, as well as some provided directly to Billboard Canada.

Lori Yates (to Billboard): "I loved him like a brother, a kindred spirit. We laughed our asses off together. He was very funny. He'd had his share of hard times, but was kind and humble. Man, could he sing! I heard him do a Leon Russell song one night that blew me away. He told great stories of old Hamilton, the six-nighters and all the characters. He was the Daddy of Cool, in his dapper suit, tie, and hat, always dressed for the gig. He was pretty hip, friendly and approachable.

"Teddy was the epitome of a 'roots' player, his style a gumbo of country, rhythm & blues, soul, rockabilly. He was a northern boy who played like he was from the deep south. He had a great groove. He came up in a time this music was played in hot greasy clubs by people who worked hard all day and drank hard all night. He was a walking history lesson, a throwback.

"When I first moved back to T.O., I heard a big laugh coming up from the street – a very busy loud street. I live on the 6th floor. I looked down and sure enough there was Teddy waving his hands around, doubled over laughing with friends, that was Teddy and his big booming laugh. There will never be another Teddy, and we were lucky to have known him."

Scotty Campbell (on Facebook): "Sure, we played in a band together…But we were mates, first and foremost. Being on the road with Teddy, or doing anything with Teddy…was a recipe for laughter. We spent so much time together that we often got confused about stories, and which one of us they actually happened to. He was the funniest, crankiest, smartest, cynical, generous and altogether loveable people I’ve ever known….and there’ll never be another.

"When we didn’t have as much time to talk as once we might…the second we spoke it was as if no time had passed. I’m not entirely sure what I’ll do without him. Gawd I’m gonna miss you."

Drummer-singer-songwriter Derek Downham (Andy Kim, The Beauties) filled in for Hawkins at Root Bone Trio's show on Saturday night, taking time out to offer Billboard Canada this tribute: "Teddy made me smile more than any other musician. A more natural and musical drummer you would be hard-pressed to find. He had a beautiful circadian rhythm and gorgeous voice that was universally and immediately admired. A deep chasm is left in his wake. His wonderful humour and spirit will live on in the Toronto scene, always."

Alec Fraser (to Billboard Canada): "Teddy was a super fan of music and held more empathy for others than anyone I’ve ever known. And sing? Look out! The last gig I did with him was one of the more fun times, lots of improvising, smiles, jokes and magic moments with a full dance floor. I’m glad that our last show together was a great one. R.I.P. my friend."

Toronto music stalwart and radio host Danny Marks (to Billboard Canada): "Letting you know of the sad passing of one of Hamilton's truly original musicians. Teddy Hawkins has left the building and we are all in a sad state of shock. Beloved by many, now gone. A truly original musician. He has left the building and we are all in a sad state of shock."

Duncan Fremlin, leader of renowned roots group Whiskey Jack (to Billboard Canada): "Teddy was the most loved man in the Toronto music scene. He joined us for many shows. He made any stage come alive."

Toronto music venue owner Sam Grosso (Cadillac Lounge, Graffiti's) on Facebook: "I am deeply saddened by the news of Ted Hawkins' passing. He truly was a unique individual. He graced the stage at the Cadillac countless times and even performed at Sam's Place [Prince Edward County] on two occasions. His talent as a musician was truly remarkable, and one of my most cherished records is Music for 2:47 AM.

Lori Yates (on Facebook): "I’m absolutely gutted to tell you that our pal , great guy, friend and drummer, Teddy passed away unexpectedly this morning from a heart attack. I started playing with Ted in 2012 in the Nashville Rejects and I always loved him. He’s going to leave a huge hole in our community…gonna miss him like crazy."

Toronto jazz vocalist Ori Dagan (on Facebook): "Talented Toronto singer, drummer and bandleader Teddy Hawkins passed away this morning of a heart attack. R&B, jazz, country, he sang and played his beautiful heart out night after night. Teddy’s passion and dedication to the music were absolutely infectious. We will miss you so much, dear friend. RIP."

Bruce Mowat (to Billboard Canada): "Ted will be missed by his many musical friends from across the spectrum of sound. His anecdotes, stories, and self deprecating humor will be missed, and he leaves a void in the musical soul of this country that will be damn near impossible to fill.

Castro's, a Toronto East End bar at which Hawkins gigged regularly, posted this tribute on Facebok: "Ted has been a fixture at Castro’s for so long it’s difficult to remember when he first started performing here. Ted played a huge role in shaping the music scene at Castro's by introducing new artists, championing local talent, and entertaining countless people with his music and unforgettable presence.

"After performing a show, Ted would routinely pull up a chair at nearby table, and effortlessly connect with people by sharing stories and diving into meaningful discussions about music and politics. Ted's impact on Castro's and the community has been immeasurable, and will be felt for years to come. His sudden loss has left an irreplaceable space on Castro's stage and in all of our hearts."

Hamilton concert promoter Lou Molinaro (to Billboard Canada): "I met Teddy through Lori Yates years ago when I was managing the Corktown. Since then, Teddy has been part of many of Lori's performances that I hosted, especially @ This Ain't Hollywood. What I remember most about him was how excited he was to play live.

"Lori put on various tributes which had a myriad of guests. These kinds of shows can easily become nightmarish because of organization. Teddy's calm attitude with that boyish smile always provided assurance that things were going to be perfect. And they always were. He loved to chat about music too, and I was always fascinated by his knowledge of rare names and songs."

Singer-songwriter Blair Packham of The Jitters (on Facebook) "I didn't know him that well, but Teddy came over to my house a couple of times to sing on a couple of my songs. And we shared a stage or two here and there. And we shared political views. Teddy Hawkins was a beautiful soul, and a wonderful, understated musician. Ted was absolutely full to the brim with life and love. His groove was gigantic, his voice monumental. I will be thinking of him a lot, for a long time."

Singer-songwriter-radio host Lily Frost (on Facebook): "Dear Teddy, I always loved singing with you. You were so funny and spontaneous and always brought tons of light to the stage. Heaven is lucky to have you.This video is us bringing to life my grandparents telegrams. I miss you already Teddy!!! "

Toronto singer-songwriter Heather Morgan (on Facebook): "Teddy was just a great guy. Funny, super talented. One of the most incredible voices around. I’m devastated. We’ve lost a true gem. May you shine in the sky with the stars, my old friend. You will be deeply missed and never forgotten."

Steve Ketchen, leader of Toronto roots-rock band The Kensington Hillbillies (to Billboard Canada): "Teddy Hawkins was a true original and a good friend. Whenever I needed a sub on drum kit, if he wasn't already booked, he was there. I will miss our conversations about Country Music, Karl Marx, and the good old days in Kensington Market. Peppered with Ted's rapier wit, these chats always left me smiling. We're going to miss you Ted – RIP."

A celebration of life event is scheduled for Castro's on March 27, and a larger event is being planned.

International

Leanne Cowie, drummer with Australian rock band The Scientists, has died. A cause of death and her exact age have not been reported.

The Dig It Up site reported that "in 1985, as a total novice, Cowie stepped in to fill the role of the then recently departed Brett Rixon as the Scientists embarked on a UK national tour as support to Siouxsie & The Banshees. She would also play on the Scientists 1986 album Weird Love, the ATP live concert from 2010 and most recent offering Negativity. Beyond all that though, Leanne was just a swell gal. A lot of fun, uber cool but totally approachable."

In 2014, Cowie and Scientists leader Kim Salmon made an album as Kim + Leanne in 2014. Salmon posted this tribute: “Leanne Chock neé Cowie, the beating heart of the Scientists since 1985 no longer beats in this world but will forever live in mine and my fellow Scientists hearts! I’ve known her since this time in 1984 and she has, since then been so much more than a bandmate. She’s remained one of my very very closest friends since and I’m devastated by her passing. My deepest condolences to her family and the huge network of people that were lucky enough to be her friend.”

Chris Jasper, the award-winning and Rock & Roll Hall of Famer as Isley Brothers songwriter, producer and keyboardist for The Isley Brothers, died on Feb. 23, at age 73. He had been diagnosed with cancer in December.

In a statement, his family wrote that "He will be deeply missed and his legacy will live on as an inspiration for generations."

A Billboard obituary notes that "Jasper was educated at the Juilliard School of Music. The Cincinnati native helped transform the Isley Brothers from vocal trio to full-fledged band when he joined the original lineup — comprised of brothers O’Kelly Jr., Rudolph and Ronald Isley — in 1973 alongside Ernie and Marvin Isley. During his decade with the group, they scored numerous entries on the Billboard Hot 100, including top 10 hits 'That Lady (Part 1)' and 'Fight the Power Part 1,” both of which Jasper helped write.

The Isley Brothers also charted a dozen albums on the Billboard 200 during Jasper’s tenure, including 1975’s No. 1 LP The Heat Is On. 1973’s 3+3, 1976’s Harvest for the World, 1977’s Go for Your Guns, 1978’s Showdown and 1980’s Go All the Way also all reached the top 10.

After the group disbanded in 1984, the pianist formed Isley-Jasper-Isley with Ernie and Marvin, and recorded hits such as 1985’s “Caravan of Love.” He would later go on to pursue a solo music career, becoming known for tracks such as “Superbad” and “The First Time.” He released his final album, It Started With a Kiss, in 2023.

He was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame along with the rest of his Isley Brothers bandmates in 1992. In 2014, the Grammys honoured the group with a Lifetime Achievement Award, eight years after which the Songwriters Hall of Fame inducted the members into its 2022 class.

Larry Tamblyn (born Lawrence Arnold Tamblyn), co-founder, organist and vocalist in garage rock legends The Standells, died on March 21, at age 82.

Tamblyn began as a solo performer, recording several 45 singles in the late 1950s and early 1960s, including "Dearest," "Patty Ann," "This Is The Night," "My Bride To Be" and "Destiny" for Faro and Linda Records.

The Standells were formed in 1962 by Tamblyn and several others. He came up with the name, derived from standing around booking agents' offices trying to get work. Within a year or so, they settled on a lineup that also included lead vocalist and drummer Dick Dodd (a former cast member of The Mickey Mouse Club), along with bassist Gary Lane and guitarist Tony Valentino.

After several singles that went nowhere on a variety of labels, in 1965 the group signed with Capitol Records' label Tower, teaming up with producer Ed Cobb. Cobb wrote the group's most popular song, "Dirty Water", which the band recorded in late 1965.

The song clicked and on July 16, 1966, with Dodd singing lead, it reached #11 on the Hot 100, No. 8 on the Cashbox charts and No. 1 on the Record World charts. "Dirty Water" was on the WLS playlist for 17 total weeks, tied only by "California Dreamin'" for most weeks on that playlist during the 1960s. Now considered a rock classic, their version is the anthem of several Boston sports teams and is played following every Boston Red Sox and Boston Bruins home win. "Dirty Water" is listed in the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's "500 Songs that Shaped Rock and Roll."

The band recorded additional songs for their first full studio album Dirty Water in April 1966. Another popular track on the album was "Sometimes Good Guys Don't Wear White," later recorded by Washington, D.C. hardcore band Minor Threat, New York City punk band The Cramps and Swedish garage band The Nomads.

The follow-up studio album, Why Pick on Me — Sometimes Good Guys Don't Wear White, was released in November 1966 and included the single "Why Pick on Me," which peaked at No. 54 on the Billboard chart.

The band then released their third album, The Hot Ones! In early 1967. It was simply a selection of popular songs that they covered. A fourth studio album, Try It, released in October 1967, contained the song "Riot on Sunset Strip," which had been released earlier in 1967 to support the soundtrack for the movie of the same name. A third single released from this album, "Can't Help But Love You," would be the Standells last entry into the Billboard Hot 100, reaching No. 78, while also peaking at No. 9 in the Cashbox charts.

In 1968, Dick Dodd left the band to pursue a solo career. The Standells continued to perform with a varying line-up thereafter, briefly including guitarist Lowell George ( Little Feat).

From the 1980s on, varying lineups of the group (usually with Tamblyn) reformed, then disbanded multiple times.

In 2006 the band sued Anheuser Busch for over $1 million after the company used "Dirty Water" in sports-related beer commercials without permission.

In September 2012, Dick Dodd briefly rejoined the group. On August 9, 2013, they released a new album, Bump, on GRA Records in 2013, minus Dodd. The Standells completed an extensive national tour in spring 2014, their first major U.S. tour since the 1960s.

The group appeared in several low-budget films of the 1960s, including Get Yourself a College Girl (1964) and cult classic Riot on Sunset Strip (1967). The Standells performed incidental music in the 1963 Connie Francis movie Follow the Boys, which coincidentally co-starred Larry Tamblyn's brother, noted actor Russ Tamblyn.

The Standells also had roles in the Bing Crosby Show, The Munsters episode as themselves and Ben Casey.

In 2022, the Standells biography From Squeaky Clean to Dirty Water, written by Larry Tamblyn, was published by Bear Manor Media. On December 23, 2023, Larry Tamblyn was inducted into the California Music Hall of Fame, introduced and officially inducted by his brother, actor Russ Tamblyn.

Read an interview with Tamblyn in Best Classic Bands here.

Cocoa Tea (born Colvin Scott), a legendary Jamaican reggae artist, died on March 11, after a heart attack. He was 65.

In its obituary, VP Records stated that "Like his namesake, the popular Caribbean drink, Cocoa Tea was known for his sweet, sweet vocal tone and style. He scored hit after hit in the '80s, '90s, and beyond and remained active as a recording artist and live performer in the decades that followed. As a devout Rasta, he excelled at songs of social protest, and is deeply respected by the Reggae and Dancehall community. He consistently entertained crowds with his uplifting and conscious music, whilst still maintaining his easy-going charm."

With a traditional Christian upbringing, Tea began singing regularly in choirs and at school. At the age of 14, he made his first foray into recording with producer Willie Francis, but without success. After working with horses and as a fisherman, he returned to music, as a regular on the Kingston soundsystem circuit.

Championed by the top-ranking Volcano Soundsystem selector Danny Dread, Tea caught the ear of revered producer Henry ‘Junjo’ Lawes. A slew of hits followed including “Rocking Dolly,” “Lost My Sonia,” “Informer” and many more.

VP writes that "Tea’s unique vocal tones and emotive songwriting, which weaved popular song melodies with the current stories of the day, became synonymous with the early sound of Dancehall. As his songwriting skills matured, Tea shifted focus to address social injustice and to promote a conscious message. He grew dreadlocks as a sign of his commitment to the Rastafarian faith and throughout his career he remained dedicated to Rasta values and fought hard for the underprivileged.

"In the '80s and '90s Tea was incredibly prolific, working with the predominant producers of the era such as King Jammy, Gussie Clarke, Phillip ‘Fatis’ Burell of Xterminator Records and Bobby ‘Digital B’ Dixon to name but a few, creating some of his most enduring classics including 'Pirate’s Anthem,' 'Tune In,' 'Good Life,' 'Bust Outta Hell,' 'She Loves Me Now' and countless more."

Many of these productions found their way onto albums released by international labels such as VP Records, Greensleeves and Ras Records. By this stage, Tea was ranked as one of the top singers in the reggae world, and remained a favourite with fans, performing at almost every Reggae Sunsplash.

In 1997 he launched his own label, Roaring Lion Records, which achieved a good deal of success, releasing songs by such major artists as Buju Banton, Louie Culture, Capleton, Cutty Ranks and Sizzla

In 2008, Cocoa Tea gained widespread attention with the release of his song “Barack Obama,” a tribute in support of the then-U.S. presidential candidate who would go on to win the election.

He initiated the annual New Year's Eve events Dancehall Jam Jam in 2003 which ran until 2009.

Jesse Colin Young, the co-founder and vocalist for ‘60s folk-rockers The Youngbloods, died on March 16, at the age of 83. A cause of death has not been reported.

A Billboard obituary notes that "upon deciding to become a full-time musician in the early ’60s, he adopted the Jesse Colin Young moniker from famed western outlaws Jesse James and Cole Younger, and Formula One innovator Colin Chapman.

"Young issued his debut album, The Soul of a City Boy, in 1964 via Capitol Records, before following it up with Young Blood on Mercury in 1965. That same year, Young teamed up with guitarist and folk singer Jerry Corbitt with whom he would form The Youngbloods, named for his recently-released album."

Their 1966 single “Grizzly Bear” would give the band their first success when it reached No. 52 on the Hot 100. It was featured on their self-titled debut album in 1967, which also featured a version of the Chet Powers-penned “Get Together.” The single would only hit No. 62 on the Hot 100 upon its release, but was reissued in 1969 where it went to No. 5, ultimately going Gold, and defining the musical sound that accompanied the peace-loving attitudes of the ‘60s.

The Youngbloods split in 1972 following five albums, then reformed in 1984 for a brief tour. Young returned to his career as a solo musician upon the band’s initial breakup, with his most successful record, 1975’s Songbird, peaking at No. 26 on the Billboard 200 upon its release.

In 2012, Young retired from performing following a diagnosis of chronic Lyme disease, though he returned to the stage in 2016, with Dreamers arriving as his final album in 2019.