Though their lineup was frequently wavering, The Drifters were one of the most influential early doo-wop and R&B acts of all time. They began in the early-‘50s when soul singer Clyde McPhatter put the band together as his backing group. McPhatter would eventually leave, allowing Ben E. King to assume the lead role, ushering the group into their most iconic phase. They would score massive pop hits during the early-'60s, and though The Drifters' commercial star dimmed in the ‘70s, the band has remained a touring draw well into the 21st century.