Erskine Hawkins Was Band Leader

WILLINGBORO, N.J. - Band leader Erskine Hawkins, author of the 1940s hit "Tuxedo Junction," died last week. He was 79.

The Birmingham, Ala., native was billed as "Erskine Hawkins and His Orchestra" and was known as one of the top jazz performers in the 1930s and '40s. Mr. Hawkins also earned much acclaim for his trumpet performances.

The top 10 hit "Tuxedo Junction" was popularized by the Glenn Miller Orchestra. Mr. Hawkins also wrote "Norfolk Ferry" and

"Dolemite."