The Drifters
The Drifters: Under the Boardwalk and Beyond
Genesis and Rise to Fame
The Drifters emerged as a vocal quintet in 1953, hailing from the vibrant rhythm and blues scene of Atlantic City, New Jersey. Their initial lineup consisted of Clyde McPhatter, Bill Pinkney, Andrew "Pop" Thornton, David Baughan, and Gerhart Thrasher.
Under the guidance of legendary music producer Ahmet Ertegun, The Drifters scored their first major hit with "Money Honey" in 1953. Their subsequent success with ballads such as "There Goes My Baby" and "Dance With Me" solidified their status as one of the most popular vocal groups of the 1950s.
Challenges and Controversies
Throughout their illustrious career, The Drifters faced numerous challenges and controversies. The group experienced frequent lineup changes, with over 60 members passing through its ranks over the decades. This constant turnover led to disputes over ownership of the band's name and legacy.
Furthermore, the group faced legal battles with former members, including McPhatter, who left in 1955. These conflicts often overshadowed their musical accomplishments, creating a turbulent chapter in their history.
Discography
The Drifters' discography spans decades and encompasses a wide range of musical styles, from doo-wop and rhythm and blues to soul and pop. Some of their most notable hits include:
* "Money Honey" (1953)
* "There Goes My Baby" (1959)
* "Save the Last Dance for Me" (1960)
* "Under the Boardwalk" (1964)
* "Up on the Roof" (1962)
Signature Song: "Under the Boardwalk"
"Under the Boardwalk" remains The Drifters' signature song and one of the most iconic pop anthems of all time. Written by Kenny Young and Arthur Resnick, it was originally released as a B-side in 1964. However, its catchy melody and poignant lyrics quickly propelled it to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and established The Drifters as a global sensation.
Members
Over the years, The Drifters have featured a diverse array of talented singers, including:
* Clyde McPhatter: Original lead singer and one of the most influential vocalists of the 1950s
* Bill Pinkney: Founding member who remained with the group for over 50 years
* Johnny Moore: Lead singer during the group's heyday in the 1950s
* Ben E. King: Lead singer on the iconic hit "Stand by Me"
* Rudy Lewis: Lead singer from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s
Legacy
Despite the challenges and controversies they faced, The Drifters have left an enduring mark on the music industry. Their timeless harmonies, infectious melodies, and ability to adapt to changing musical trends have cemented their status as one of the most successful and influential vocal groups of all time.
The Drifters have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and the Grammy Hall of Fame. Their music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by generations of music lovers around the world.
Genesis and Rise to Fame
The Drifters emerged as a vocal quintet in 1953, hailing from the vibrant rhythm and blues scene of Atlantic City, New Jersey. Their initial lineup consisted of Clyde McPhatter, Bill Pinkney, Andrew "Pop" Thornton, David Baughan, and Gerhart Thrasher.
Under the guidance of legendary music producer Ahmet Ertegun, The Drifters scored their first major hit with "Money Honey" in 1953. Their subsequent success with ballads such as "There Goes My Baby" and "Dance With Me" solidified their status as one of the most popular vocal groups of the 1950s.
Challenges and Controversies
Throughout their illustrious career, The Drifters faced numerous challenges and controversies. The group experienced frequent lineup changes, with over 60 members passing through its ranks over the decades. This constant turnover led to disputes over ownership of the band's name and legacy.
Furthermore, the group faced legal battles with former members, including McPhatter, who left in 1955. These conflicts often overshadowed their musical accomplishments, creating a turbulent chapter in their history.
Discography
The Drifters' discography spans decades and encompasses a wide range of musical styles, from doo-wop and rhythm and blues to soul and pop. Some of their most notable hits include:
* "Money Honey" (1953)
* "There Goes My Baby" (1959)
* "Save the Last Dance for Me" (1960)
* "Under the Boardwalk" (1964)
* "Up on the Roof" (1962)
Signature Song: "Under the Boardwalk"
"Under the Boardwalk" remains The Drifters' signature song and one of the most iconic pop anthems of all time. Written by Kenny Young and Arthur Resnick, it was originally released as a B-side in 1964. However, its catchy melody and poignant lyrics quickly propelled it to the top of the Billboard Hot 100 and established The Drifters as a global sensation.
Members
Over the years, The Drifters have featured a diverse array of talented singers, including:
* Clyde McPhatter: Original lead singer and one of the most influential vocalists of the 1950s
* Bill Pinkney: Founding member who remained with the group for over 50 years
* Johnny Moore: Lead singer during the group's heyday in the 1950s
* Ben E. King: Lead singer on the iconic hit "Stand by Me"
* Rudy Lewis: Lead singer from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s
Legacy
Despite the challenges and controversies they faced, The Drifters have left an enduring mark on the music industry. Their timeless harmonies, infectious melodies, and ability to adapt to changing musical trends have cemented their status as one of the most successful and influential vocal groups of all time.
The Drifters have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and the Grammy Hall of Fame. Their music continues to be celebrated and enjoyed by generations of music lovers around the world.