Which soul singer was the lead vocalist of The Drifters in the early 1950s?

Clyde McPhatter was the lead vocalist of The Drifters in the early 1950s. His powerful, high tenor helped define the group’s original sound and made him one of early rhythm and blues’ most influential singers.

After leaving Billy Ward and the Dominoes in 1953, McPhatter formed The Drifters at Atlantic Records’ request. The group’s early recordings included “Money Honey,” “Such a Night,” and “Honey Love,” with releases initially credited to Clyde McPhatter and the Drifters.

A common mix-up is to name Ben E. King, who became The Drifters’ best-known lead singer during a later period. Johnny Moore and Rudy Lewis also fronted later lineups. McPhatter left after entering military service in late 1954 and then pursued a solo career.