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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 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 earlier 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 29 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 an 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.
The Drifters Million Sellers
"There Goes My Baby"
"This Magic Moment"
"Save The Last Dance For Me"
"Up On The Roof"
"On Broadway"
"Under The Boardwalk"
"Dance With Me/True Love, True Love"
"I Count The Tears"
Addition Drifter Hits - Reached Top 10
"Lonely Winds"
"Some Kind of Wonderful"
"Please Stay"
"Sweets for My Sweet"
"Room Full Of Tears"
"When My Little Girl Is Smiling"
"Stranger On The Shore"
"I’ll Take You Home"
"I’ve Got Sand In My Shoes"
"Saturday Night at The Movies"
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