Estadísticas
Biografía
The Drifters were formed in 1953 originally as back up vocalists for Clyde McPhatter, however McPhatter was only associated with the group for a year. McPhatter, with the intention of wanting to blend gospel and secular music, got some of his old church group together, which included William “Chick” Anderson, David Baldwin, James “Wrinkle” Johnson and David “Little Dave” Baughan. They only released one recording, but the record executive in charge of the group didn’t think the group worked and suggested a whole new lineup.
The whole new lineup consisted of Bill Pinkney, Andrew Thrasher, Gerhart Thrasher, Willie Ferbee and Walter Adams, and it was this group that produced the hit song “Money Honey” in September 1953. Unfortunately the group went through a few more lineup changes and was a short-lived group due to various reasons. Some members of the group started a new group under the name The Original Drifters (inducted into the Vocal Hall of Fame in 1998), but The Drifters continued on with a whole new lineup that included Ben E. King, Charlie Thomas, Dock Green, Elsbeary Hobbs. It was this group that released a string of successful songs, including “There Goes My Baby” and “This Magic Moment,” and it was also this group that was later inducted into the Vocal Hall Of Fame in 2000 (as Ben E. King & The Drifters).
Críticas en vivo
The Drifters might not have been signed to Motown, but that doesn’t mean they don’t share the same astonishing longevity as many of the legendary label’s biggest acts; admittedly, the current lineup of the outfit is a long way removed from the original 1953 group, but it’s really a testament to the quality of the songs, rather than the identity of those singing them, that The Drifters remain a going concern in any way, shape or form in the present day. Past alumni include the iconic likes of Ben E. King and Rudy Lewis, and it was they that formed the crux of the so-called New Drifters, after the original doo-wop oriented lineup from the fifties had run their course. Today, they’re comprised of a considerably younger group of men, and continue to tour as The Drifters all over the globe. Just this summer, they completed a lap of the UK that saw all the classics brought out - ‘Under the Boardwalk’, ‘Saturday Night at the Movies’ and ‘Kissin’ in the Back Row’ all present and correct - and done justice, too, with a full live band. The Drifters may look very different these days, but the songs remain the same - and audiences continue to lap them up.
The Drifters were great and what I expected. Was glad to see the Flamingos but they did too mant new songs and not the old favorites I expected to hear. I believe they were more into promoting their new CD than singing the classics I love so much. Also Joey Dee was great on his songs but didn't appreciate going off base with I will Survive, Heatwave, etc. Also the lead vocals thru the sound system or the Flamingos and Joey Dee were a little loud for that size room and sometimes sounded distorted.
The Drifters show was absolutely perfect throughout. Skilled artists who sang us through an unforgettable evening. Ray Lewis is the most skilled intertainer ever, the stage performance was perfect. An evening you will never forget, with so much lovely music. The audience catches up with his presence, getting around to the audience, and amazing voice. A lovely evening that lives forever.
The Drifters show was absolutely perfect throughout. Skilled artists who sang us through an unforgettable evening. Ray Lewis is the best intertainer, ever. The stage performance was perfect. An evening you will never forget, with so many lovely songs from Ray Lewis and his talented singers.