Hawkins has been challenged by different styles several times in his long career, but his supremacy was soon be reasserted. Basic to this, and his ability to go on adding creatively, is his sound. There have many approaches, but for the majority of musicians and listeners, the Hawkins tone has consistently represented the ultimate. The tones of some others have been appealing, permissible deviations, though they often have suggested loyalties split between alto and tenor. Others again have sought to match Hawkins tone, but they have never quite attained its full, rounded power and authority.
Young saxophonists continue to find aspiration in Hawkins' recordings.
His influence has certainly endured. All Rights Reserved.