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William Hawkins (writer) facts for kids

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William Hawkins
Born May 20, 1940
Ottawa, Ontario
Died July 4, 2016 (aged 76)
Ottawa, Ontario
Occupation Poet, Songwriter and Performer
Nationality Canadian
Years active 1963-1972; sporadically thereafter

William Alfred Hawkins (born May 20, 1940, died July 4, 2016) was a talented Canadian songwriter, poet, musician, and journalist. He became famous in the 1960s for his contributions to Canadian folk rock music and his unique poetry. His most well-known song is "Gnostic Serenade," which was first recorded by the band 3's a Crowd.

Who Was William Hawkins?

William Hawkins was a creative person who used words and music to express himself. He was born in Ottawa, Ontario, and spent most of his life there. He was active in the Canadian music and poetry scenes, especially during the 1960s.

A Gifted Songwriter

William Hawkins was well-known for writing songs. He helped shape the sound of Canadian folk rock music. Folk rock combines folk music (traditional songs) with rock music (electric instruments and a stronger beat).

"Gnostic Serenade"

One of his most famous songs is "Gnostic Serenade." This song was first performed and recorded by a band called 3's a Crowd. It became a popular song that many people enjoyed listening to.

A Talented Poet

Besides writing songs, William Hawkins was also a respected poet. He wrote many poems that were published and read by others. His poetry often explored deep ideas and feelings.

Poetry and Music

Sometimes, his poetry and songwriting went hand-in-hand. The way he used words in his poems often showed up in the lyrics of his songs. This made his music special and thoughtful.

A Musician and Performer

William Hawkins was not just a writer; he was also a musician. He played music and performed his songs for audiences. This allowed him to share his art directly with people.

A Journalist Too

In addition to his creative work, William Hawkins also worked as a journalist. This means he wrote for newspapers or magazines. This role allowed him to share information and stories with the public.

William Hawkins' Legacy

William Hawkins left behind a lasting impact on Canadian culture. His songs and poems are still remembered and appreciated. He helped define a unique sound in Canadian music and contributed to its rich literary history. He passed away on July 4, 2016, at the age of 76.

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