Screamin' Jay Hawkins

Screamin' Jay Hawkins was an American singer and performer known for his powerful, guttural vocals and a theatrical, horror-tinged stage persona. He combined elements of blues, rhythm and blues, and vaudeville with macabre props and dramatic delivery, presenting flamboyant live shows that emphasized shock and spectacle. His showmanship and vocal style influenced later rock and shock-rock performers. He died in 2000.