Ben E. King

Iconic soul and R&B singer, best known for The Drifters and "Stand by Me".

Chronology: 1938-09-28 – 2015-04-30

The Foundation of a Soul Voice

Benjamin Earl King began his career as a prominent member of the R&B vocal group, The Drifters. His early success was built on his powerful lead vocals, which helped define the sound of the group with major hits like "There Goes My Baby" and "This Magic Moment".

Solo Stardom and Enduring Hits

As a solo artist, King achieved remarkable success, most notably with "Stand by Me," which became a US top-10 hit multiple times. His repertoire also included seminal songs such as "Spanish Harlem" and "Supernatural Thing," cementing his status as a versatile songwriter.

A Lasting Cultural Resonance

King's influence extended beyond his recordings; he was recognized for his songwriting prowess. His enduring songs were honored on the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame's list of 500 Songs That Shaped Rock and Roll, solidifying his legacy in music history.

Source: Wikipedia