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Photos by Arnie Goodman

I was always a fan of Screamin’ Jay Hawkins and owned most of his recorded material. Most importantly, I got to witness Screamin’ Jay Hawkins later in his career in New York City

The Resurrection of Screamin’ Jay Hawkins show took place at the Bowery Electric, not far from where I got to see Screamin’Jay himself. The band is led by Mike Armando, who played guitar for Hawkins in the ’70s .

More than just the music, this is a show. Screamin’ Jay would be carried on stage in a coffin, and his stage props included a toilet. Many bands where influenced by this, including Alice Copper and Screaming Lord.

The part of Screaming is played by Shakur Brumfield who has the vocals and the movements down .They cover all the Screamin’ Jay classic songs, from “Alligator Wine ,” “Wanna Know,” “Constipation Blues” (guess where the toilet comes in!), “Yellow Coat” and of course the song everybody was waiting for, “I Put a Spell on You.”

From somebody who got to see Screamin’ Jay Hawkins himself, The Resurrection of Screamin’ Jay Hawkins Band is practically the real thing, and a must to witness.

The Resurrection of Screamin’ Jay Hawkins Band is doing their part in Saving American Music.

—Arnie Goodman