The Drifters
1
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Year:
1988
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Inducted by:
Billy Joel
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Category:
Performers
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Ben E. King -
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Bill Pinkney -
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Charlie Thomas -
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Clyde Mcphatter -
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Gerhart Thrasher -
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Johnny Moore -
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Rudy Lewis
Introduction
Mellow yet savvy, the Drifters painted vivid New York scenes with their syrupy-sweet voices.
The Drifters took the ardent fervor of their gospel days and channeled it into soulful R&B arrangements about typical lives, elevating the everyday to a state of sanctity.
"Stand By Me"
Ben E King and the Rock Hall Jam Band perform "Stand By Me" at the 1988 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony-
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"Stand By Me"00:04:35 -
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Charlie Thomas01:02:16
Hall of Fame Essay
1988
The story of the Drifters is more than the story of a single group’s success.
It’s also the story of the great rhythm and blues singers who claimed membership in the group at various times, of the equally great songwriters who created classic songs for the group and of the pioneering record executives who helped bring the Drifters’ music to the attention of the world.
go up on the roof and look at the stars.
Photography: Kevin Mazur, WireImage
