Cold and Bitter Tears: Essential Recordings

Personnel: Elizabeth Hawkins (vocals); Dale Wilson , Augie Brown, Phillip Walker (guitar); David Li (saxophone); Melvin Moore (trumpet); Arthur Woods (piano); Johnny Greer, Johnny Tucker (drums); Ina Bea Walker, Jimmy Grisby (background vocals).
Photographer: Jack Vartoogian.
His distinctively raspy-sweet voice suggests the deepest blues and the sultriest soul, while his lilting melodies and strummy guitar style are pure pop and folk. Singer-songwriter Ted Hawkins, who divided his time between busking for passers-by in Venice Beach and playing sold-out concerts in Europe, was a unique talent who recorded very little during his lifetime. Thankfully, this Rounder compilation gathers the best of his originals and covers. It is an excellent introduction for new fans.