[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 119 (Wednesday, September 3, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1673]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                         HONORING EDWIN HAWKINS

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BARBARA LEE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, September 3, 2003

  Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Edwin Hawkins on his 60th 
birthday for his achievements as a gospel music pioneer and community 
activist. He has been a composer, producer, songwriter and vital force 
in gospel music for four decades.
  The album ``Let Us Go into the House of the Lord'' was the first to 
bring acclaim to Mr. Hawkins. Among its highlights was the track ``Oh 
Happy Day,'' which unexpectedly found a home on underground FM 
playlists across San Francisco. The single quickly began earning 
airplay on mainstream R&B and pop outlets across the country, and in 
the spring of 1969 it reached the U.S. Top Five on its way to selling 
an astounding seven million copies and taking home a Grammy award for 
Best Gospel/Soul Performance of 1969. At this time the choir was 
rechristened the Edwin Hawkins Singers, although the featured voice on 
``Oh Happy Day'' belonged to singer Dorothy Combs Morrison, who soon 
exited in pursuit of a solo career.
  In 1970 the group made a return appearance on the pop charts 
supporting the artist Melanie on her hit ``Lay Down (Candle in the 
Wind).'' Edwin Hawkins remained a critical favorite, and in 1972, the 
Singers won a second Grammy for ``Every Man Wants to Be Free.'' 
Recording prolifically throughout the remainder of the decade, in 1980 
they won a third Grammy for ``Wonderful''; a fourth award, for ``If You 
Love Me,'' followed three years later.
  In 1982, Edwin founded the Edwin Hawkins Music and Arts Seminar, an 
annual week-long convention that offers workshops exploring all facets 
of the gospel industry and culminating each year with a live 
performance by the assembled mass choir. The 2002 Love Fellowship Mass 
Choir included hundreds of representatives from the United States, 
Europe, and Japan.
  Gospel musicians and vocalists from around the world will meet to 
celebrate this great composer, musician, and vocalist on his 60th 
birthday. On a personal note, I would like to thank Edwin for his long-
standing friendship and encouragement. He is a true believer, and has 
been steadfast in his honesty and support. I take great pride in 
joining his friends, colleagues, and family to salute the extraordinary 
Edwin Hawkins.

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