Ben E King, born Benjamin Earl Nelson, was an American soul and R&B singer-songwriter who rose to fame in the late 1950s. He was best known for his iconic hit song “Stand by Me,” which has since become a timeless classic.
With his smooth vocals and heartfelt lyrics, Ben E King quickly became a beloved figure in the music industry. He continued to release chart-topping hits throughout the 1960s and 1970s, cementing his status as a true legend of soul music. In this article, we will take a closer look at the life and career of this talented artist, exploring his early beginnings, his rise to fame, and his lasting impact on the world of music.
Ben E King was an American soul and R&B singer, best known for his hit song “Stand By Me”. Born on September 28, 1938, in North Carolina, King began his career as a member of the doo-wop group The Drifters. He went solo in 1960 and released his first hit song “Spanish Harlem”. In 1961, he released “Stand By Me”, which became a global hit and cemented his place in music history. King continued to release successful songs throughout the 1960s and 1970s. He passed away on April 30, 2015, in New Jersey.
Full Details: Ben E King
| Name: | Ben E King |
| Nickname: | Benjamin Earl King |
| Profession: | Singer, Songwriter |
| Date of Birth: | September 28, 1938 |
| Age: | 82 years old |
| Net Worth: | $10 million |
| Height: | 6 feet 3 inches |
| Weight: | Not known |
| Body Measurement: | Not known |
| Eye Color: | Dark Brown |
| Hair Color: | Black |
| Birthplace/Hometown: | Henderson, North Carolina |
| Nationality: | American |
| Gender: | Male |
| Ethnicity: | African-American |
| Religion: | Christianity |
| Sexuality: | Straight |
| Sun Sign (Zodiac Birth Sign): | Libra |
| House Location: | Not known |
| Wiki Page: | https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ben_E._King |
| Facebook Link: | https://www.facebook.com/Ben-E-King-Official-Page-160723367276294/ |
| Twitter Profile Link: | https://twitter.com/benekingofficial |
Physical Statistics
| Height (Tall) | 6 feet 2 inches |
|---|---|
| Weight | Approximately 80 kg |
| Profession | Singer, Songwriter |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Shoe Size (UK) | 10 |
| Hair Color | Black |
Ben E King was a talented American singer and songwriter known for his soulful voice and iconic hits such as “Stand by Me” and “Spanish Harlem”. He was known to be a tall man, standing at 6 feet 2 inches and weighing approximately 80 kg. His profession as a singer and songwriter brought joy to millions of fans around the world. He had beautiful brown eyes and black hair that complemented his overall look. Ben E King had a shoe size of 10 in the UK.
Family
| Parents | Benjamin Earl Nelson Sr. (father) | Gertrude Blount (mother) | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Unknown | ||||
| Siblings | Betty Nelson | Esau Nelson | Harry Nelson | Rosetta Nelson | Evelyn Nelson |
Unknown Facts about Ben E King
Who Was Ben E King?
Have you ever heard the soulful and soothing voice behind the iconic song “Stand By Me”? Yes, we are talking about none other than Ben E King, the American soul and R&B singer who left an indelible mark on the music industry. But do you know who he was, and why he is considered one of the greatest singers of all time?
The Life and Legacy of Ben E King
Ben E King, born as Benjamin Earl Nelson, started his musical journey as a member of the doo-wop group The Drifters. With his distinctive voice and unmatched talent, he soon became the lead singer of the group and gave some of their biggest hits like “Save The Last Dance For Me” and “This Magic Moment”. However, it was his solo career that brought him international fame and acclaim. With hits like “Spanish Harlem” and “Stand By Me”, Ben E King became a household name and left an indelible mark on the music industry. Even after his death in 2015, his music continues to inspire and influence generations.
Discovering the Unknown Facts about Ben E King
But do you think you know everything about this legendary artist? Think again! In this article, we will take you on a journey to discover some of the unknown facts about Ben E King – his early life, musical journey, personal struggles, and much more. So, get ready to explore the life and legacy of one of the greatest singers of all time with the help of famous subject matter experts of Ben E King.
Ben E King: The Soulful Voice of Stand By Me
Early Life and Career
Ben E King was born on September 28, 1938, in Henderson, North Carolina, and grew up in Harlem, New York. He began his music career in the late 1950s as a member of a doo-wop group called The Five Crowns. In 1959, the group changed their name to The Drifters, and King became the lead singer.
The Drifters Years
Under King’s lead, The Drifters produced several hit songs, including “Save the Last Dance for Me” and “This Magic Moment.” However, in 1960, King left the group to pursue a solo career.
Going Solo
King’s solo career took off with the release of his first single, “Spanish Harlem,” in 1961. The song reached number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became a classic in its own right. King continued to produce hits throughout the 1960s, including “Stand By Me,” which was released in 1961 and became his signature song.
Collaborations and Legacy
King collaborated with several other artists during his career, including The Beatles and Aretha Franklin. His music has been featured in numerous films and TV shows, and he was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1988. King passed away on April 30, 2015, but his music continues to inspire and influence artists to this day.
Personal Life and Philanthropy
King was married to Betty Nelson from 1964 until his death in 2015. The couple had three children together. In addition to his music career, King was also involved in philanthropy work. He was a strong advocate for education and founded the Stand By Me Foundation, which provides financial assistance to children and families in need.
Charitable Work
The Stand By Me Foundation has supported numerous initiatives over the years, including building schools in underprivileged areas and providing scholarships to students. King was also involved in various other charitable organizations, including the Boys and Girls Clubs of America and the United Negro College Fund.
Legacy of Giving Back
King’s commitment to philanthropy and giving back to his community continues to inspire others. The Stand By Me Foundation continues to operate in his memory and has helped countless individuals and families in need.
Conclusion
Ben E King was a talented musician and philanthropist who left a lasting legacy in the world of music and beyond. His soulful voice and timeless music continue to inspire and touch the hearts of people all over the world.
Ben E King was truly an exceptional artist who left an indelible mark on the music industry. His contributions to the world of soul music and his unique voice continue to inspire many to this day. King’s legacy lives on, and his music is still enjoyed by people of all ages.
Throughout his career, King’s music reflected his passion for soul and R&B. His hits such as “Stand By Me” and “Spanish Harlem” are timeless classics that have stood the test of time. King’s ability to convey emotion and connect with his audience through his music is what made him one of the greatest singers of his generation.
Ben E King was not only a music icon but also a trailblazer. His music broke down racial barriers and brought people together in a time when segregation was still prevalent. He was a symbol of hope and unity, and his music continues to inspire new generations to this day.
In conclusion, Ben E King’s music will always be remembered as a significant contribution to the world of soul music. His legacy will continue to inspire and influence music for years to come. Ben E King’s unique voice, passion, and ability to connect with his audience through his music will forever be remembered as a testament to his incredible talent.