A great innovator and personality of the rock and roll era passed away today. Dale Hawkins died after a struggle with cancer at the age of 74. Last year at the annual Ponderosa Stomp festival in New Orleans, Dale delivered an amazing set sandwiched between James Burton (who at age 14 originated the searing guitar riffs heard on 'Suzie-Q' and went on to lay down brilliant guitar work for Ricky Nelson, Elvis Presley and many others) and Deke Dickerson who has been preserving the history of western guitar with his fine ensemble the Eccophonics.
I was lucky to be there that night. I don't remember the exact quote, but Dale seemed so happy and energized by the gig that he told the audience that performing his music with such great company did him more good than all the medicine in the world.
part of the show was broadcast on American Routes
Update: Norton Records has a very beautiful remembrance of their friend up here 
Sunday, February 14, 2010
RIP Dale Hawkins - live at the Ponderosa Stomp 2009
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Thanks for posting these, Jacob. That last photo is how I'll always remember Dale--friendly, warm, with a giant smile on his face. I'm so glad that I got to back him up so many times, and I'm also glad that we have such a great last show to remember him by--last year's Ponderosa Stomp show was probably the best show I'd ever seen him do. RIP Dale, we'll miss you, old friend.
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