Rockabilly legend Ronnie Hawkins passed away at the age of 87. The Arkansas-born entertainer had big success in Canada, which became his adopted home and lived in Peterborough where he passed away and was the godfather to a generation of influential artists.

He had an eye for talent, and recruited the best players in his backing band The Hawks, five of who went on to back Bob Dylan and enjoy success as The Band, led by Robbie Robertson. Robertson paid tribute to Hawkins as did others.

Rest In Peace, Ronnie Hawkins. pic.twitter.com/X32JQrw0p5

— Robbie Robertson (@r0bbier0berts0n) May 29, 2022

Hawkins was also invited onstage to perform with The Band for their concert film The Last Waltz, for his influence.

“Ronnie could really work a crowd on a Friday night. He was an entertainer rather than a musician. He had an instinct for crowd psychology and could start a rumble across the room if he wanted to just by flicking his wrist.” – Levon Helm

Rest in peace, Ronnie Hawkins. pic.twitter.com/fHWPuT5sPa

— The Band (@thelastwaltz78) May 29, 2022

Very sad to hear that Ronnie Hawkins has passed away…it was virtually impossible ever to find anyone who didn’t like Ronnie…I spent some great times with him, listening to his stories and experiences…he could always make you howl with laughter. pic.twitter.com/QEfGSULmVw

— Burton Cummings (@burtoncummings) May 29, 2022

Rest easy, Ronnie Hawkins. One of the earliest people to recognize the magic of Richard Manuel’s voice, and the one to set him and the rest of The Band on their path to creating a musical legacy unlike any other. A true icon in his own right. pic.twitter.com/cDsnNhZt4n

— The Richard Manuel Archive (@manuelarchive) May 29, 2022

Ronnie Hawkins: Thank you for changing my life when you invited me to dance onstage at the 1969 Toronto Pop Festival. You helped fuel my teenage dreams and showed me what true legends are made of. Forever in my heart… pic.twitter.com/KqEQlTP55G

— Jeanne Beker (@Jeanne_Beker) May 29, 2022

Hawkins also received many honors from his adopted country like The Order of Canada and was inducted into Canada’s Walk of Fame.

We send our heartfelt condolences to the family, friends and fans of rockabilly legend Ronnie Hawkins, who passed away today. He was inducted into @CWOFame by Kris Kristofferson on October 4, 2002, which was declared “Ronnie Hawkins Day” by the City of Toronto. pic.twitter.com/X9HI0JIJdO

— Canada’s Walk of Fame (@CWOFame) May 29, 2022