Ben E. King - born Benjamin Nelson, former lead vocalist for the Five Crowns and most notably the Drifters before he went solo in 1960. Gone at 76 years old.

He had a nice string of hits, most notably STAND BY ME, originally a Top Ten hit in 1961 and again in 1986 when it was included in the soundtrack of the film of the same name.

King's lead vocals for the Drifters include SAVE THE LAST DANCE FOR ME, THERE GOES MY BABY, THIS MAGIC MOMENT and others.

His other solo hits include SUPERNATURAL THING, SPANISH HARLEM and I (WHO HAVE NOTHING).

He was married for 51 years, received many awards and was perceived as one of the most decent guys in Rock & Roll and R&B.

To learn more about this extraordinary artist, go to his webpage by CLICKING HERE.

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