Roger Hawkins

Roger Hawkins worked as a drummer at dances and clubs throughout North Alabama and Southern Tennessee before securing a position with the rhythm section at FAME studio. He was soon pounding out the rhythm for acts such as Aretha Franklin and Wilson Pickett.

In 1969, he and Jimmy Johnson formed Muscle Shoals Sound Studio and invited fellow studio musicians, David Hood and Barry Beckett to join them. This association of musicians became known as the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section.

As a member of the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section, Hawkins has played with such artists as, Paul Simon, the Staple Singers, Leon Russell, Sam and Dave, Cher, Bob Seger, Eddie Rabbitt, Rod Stewart, Willie Nelson, Joe Cocker, Linda Ronstadt, Percy Sledge, and many others.

During the early 70s his solid backbeat brought him to the attention of Steve Winwood, who asked that he join the group "Traffic" for tours of the U.S. and Europe. Eric Clapton recruited his talents for a tour in the early 80s and he has appeared live and on television with Glenn Frey, Peter Yarrow, Ronee Blakely and others.

Along with partner Barry Beckett he co-produced the classic Mel and Tim hit "Starting All Over Again". Other production credits include Canned Heat, Bob Seger, Paul Simon and others.

Following the sale of Muscle Shoals Sound Studios in the early 90s, Hawkins stayed on as Studio Manager of the facility. He continues to produce records and play recording sessions with some of the top acts in Country, Rhythm & Blues, Pop, and Gospel Music.