R.I.P. Ben E. King

Ben E. King was an American singer and songwriter who was born in Henderson, North Carolina on September 28th, 1938. He was best known for his contributions to both, the Drifters, and his own solo career. As a member of the Drifters, he lent his voice to several classics, including “Save the Last Dance for Me”, “This Magic Moment”, and “There Goes My Baby”.

His most prominent solo hits include “Spanish Harlem”, “Don’t Play That Song”, and today’s song choice. In 1988, he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (as a member of the Drifters).

On this very day, April 30th, 2015, Benjamin Earl Nelson (better known by his stage name, Ben E King) died in Hackensack, New Jersey (at 76 years of age). In memory of his passing, exactly 9 years ago today, I’ve chosen an inspiring soul ballad that has truly withstood the winds of time. If you’d like to have a listen, please feel free to use the provided link. From his album, “Don’t Play That Song”, here’s the late BEN E KING, with “STAND BY ME”….