Surely, there is no more aptly named group in show business
today than the Drifters. The group that was formed 40 years ago to be a vehicle
for top talent to drift in and out of, has become the showcase for over 100
performers. In fact, over 50 singers recorded with the Drifter's 18 hit records
and 15 top album reign including no less than 7 different lead singers.
While no one single Drifter really stands out, at least two individuals whose
careers originated with the Drifters achieved superstardom on their own. Both
Ben E, King and Clyde McPhatter went on to sell millions of records as solo
performers and were ultimately inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
after their careers ended with the Drifters. But that doesn't begin to account
for the numerous group members whose careers blossomed in Broadway theatre, on
television, in commercials, in jingles—truly every aspect of the entertainment
business.
And for their long careers as trendsetters in the music industry, the Drifters
were honored with the ultimate music business accolade in 1988; induction into
the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame—prophetically in the same year as such other rock
and roll icons as the Beatles, the Supremes, Bob Dylan and the Beach Boys. Can
you imagine any greater sampling of the greatness and diversity of American pop
music than this quintet of inductees?
The years have been kind to the Drifters since the earliest group under the
direction of Clyde McPhatter disbanded in 1958. Reformed with entirely different
personnel, their very next record was the four million seller with Ben E. King,
"There Goes My Baby," {the first rhythm and blues record to incorporate
violins). And throughout the numerous personnel changes, the group was able to
turn out 39 more chart records and have sold almost 50 million albums worldwide.
Their current blockbuster album, "The Drifters Then and Now", is perhaps their
best, featuring some of their greatest live performances as well as their
complete current live show recorded at the Hard Rock Cafe on a two CD set.
But it is as a performing group that the Drifters are best known. They have
performed before 4 presidents including a recent appearance at President
Clinton's second inaugural ball. They have been on television over 100 times
starting with the Ed Sullivan show in the 50's, with numerous appearances on the
Tonight Show going back to Jack Parr right on up through Johnny Carson and Jay
Leno. Recently, they have been on USA This Morning, the Today Show and Good
Morning America showing off their polished choreography, special effects and
smooth patter, but most of all the patented Drifters' sound. Over the years,
they have been chosen to represent the United States for the great bicentennial
tour of Russia, have appeared at the home of the late Robert Kennedy in a
charity performance, performed for the Queen of England, and at the Great Wall
of China. Additionally, they have performed on the floor of the New York Stock
Exchange in honor of its 75th anniversary, at Jackie Mason's wedding, for Chief
Justice Berger at the American Bicentennial celebration at Constitution Hall as
well as being the only artists to perform at the Statue of Liberty.
The current act blends a tasteful mixture of The Drifters' million sellers with
contemporary standards and many hits lifted from their new album, "Then & Now"
which promises to soar up the charts—all presented within the context of the
Drifters' unique style.
Listen to
Beary Hobbs Drifters
This Magic Moment - Music Clip
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