The Drifters

Definition

The Drifters were a popular vocal group formed in the early 1950s, known for their smooth harmonies and influence on the development of rock and roll music. They became one of the most successful groups of their time, blending R&B with pop elements, which helped to bridge the gap between these genres and set the stage for the rise of rock and roll. Their dynamic sound and catchy hits made them a pivotal part of the music scene during this transformative era.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Drifters were originally formed as a group in 1953 and went through several lineup changes, with notable members including Clyde McPhatter and Ben E. King.
2. They are best known for hits like 'Under the Boardwalk,' 'Save the Last Dance for Me,' and 'This Magic Moment,' which showcased their smooth vocal style and catchy arrangements.
3. Their music was heavily influenced by the doo-wop genre, combining rich harmonies with storytelling lyrics that resonated with a wide audience.
4. The Drifters were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988, recognizing their significant contributions to the genre and popular music as a whole.
5. They helped pave the way for later rock and roll groups by blending elements of pop, R&B, and gospel music, influencing future artists in various genres.

Review Questions

• How did The Drifters contribute to the evolution of rock and roll during their time?
  • The Drifters played a significant role in shaping the sound of rock and roll by fusing R&B with pop elements. Their smooth harmonies and catchy melodies helped to popularize this new genre among diverse audiences. By bridging the gap between R&B and mainstream pop, The Drifters influenced countless artists who followed, making them key figures in the rise of rock and roll.
• In what ways did The Drifters' music reflect the cultural changes occurring in America during the 1950s?
  • The Drifters' music mirrored the cultural shifts of the 1950s, particularly in how it brought together African American musical traditions with broader pop sensibilities. Their focus on themes like love and longing resonated with a generation experiencing post-war social changes. Additionally, their diverse sound appealed to both black and white audiences, reflecting the growing integration of different musical styles during this transformative period.
• Evaluate The Drifters' impact on subsequent musical genres and artists, particularly regarding their influence on rock bands in later decades.
  • The Drifters had a lasting impact on various musical genres beyond just rock and roll. Their innovative blend of doo-wop harmonies with pop melodies set a precedent for future rock bands like The Beach Boys and The Four Seasons. As these bands adopted similar vocal techniques and storytelling approaches in their songs, it became clear that The Drifters' influence extended far beyond their own hits; they laid groundwork for how vocal arrangements would be utilized in rock music for decades to come.

Related terms

Rock and Roll: A genre of popular music that emerged in the late 1940s and early 1950s, characterized by a strong rhythm, simple melodies, and a fusion of various musical styles including blues, country, and R&B.

Atlantic Records: A major American record label founded in 1947 that played a crucial role in promoting R&B and rock and roll artists, including The Drifters.

Doowop: A genre of vocal-based rhythm and blues music that emerged in the 1940s, characterized by vocal harmonies and often featuring nonsense syllables as part of the melody.