Hailing from Ann Arbor, Michigan, US, Andrew Mayer Cohen (born February 2nd, 1979), better known as Mayer Hawthrone, is a multi-instrumentalist and producer, creating a modern take on 60s/70s soul.
What initially started as a bit of self-amusement, Cohen began creating music that was steeped in soul and motion influences, attempting to achieve a retro sound reminiscent of his heroes, such as Curtis Mayfield, Isaac Hayes, Barry White and Smokey Robinson. After a couple of songs were played for Stones Throw label chief, Peanut Butter Wolf, they were intrigued, confused as to whether these songs were re-edits of old 60s/70s soul tunes as opposed to fresh compositions by the multi-instrumentalist Cohen.
Under the name of Mayer Hawthorne, Cohen was signed to the label, releasing "Just Ain't Gonna Work Out" and "When I Said Goodbye" in 2009, with the two singles offering lo-fi, vintage sounding songs of bittersweet heartache. In October 2009, he released his debut full length, "A Strange Arrangement," to critical acclaim.
In 2011, he released his second album, "How Do You Do," which saw Hawthorne truly find his voice, creating a unique sound that revamped 70s soul with funky bass lines inspired by modern hip-hop by the lies of Public Enemy and Juan Atkins.
Hawthorne joined the legendary Booker T. Jones on an episode for Daryl Hall's online video program, 'Live From Daryl's House,' performing classics such as "Green Onions" as well as Hawthorne's tracks, "Just Ain't Gonna Work Out" and "Your Easy Lovin' Ain't Pleasin' nothing'."
Hawthorne went on to release "Where Does This Door Go" which built on the commercial success of his previous releases, reaching number 30 in the US charts and number 58 in the UK. His album, "How Do You Do" received a Grammy Award nomination for 'Best Boxed or Special Limited Edition Package.'
Tim Engelhardt
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