Posted inRhythm&Blues Wax Facts

The Drifters Lead Singer Rudy Lewis Found Dead In Hotel Room

Rudy Lewis was born in Philadelphia on August, 23rd, 1936 and was gifted with a lovely rich voice that was both smooth and silky and died today (May 20th, 1964) at the height of his fame.

Rudy Lewis
Rudy Lewis
He began his singing career with the legendary group, the Clara Ward singers, singing Gospel Music.

He joined the Drifters in 1960 after an audition for George Treadwell, who was seeking to replace recently departed group member, Ben E. King, who himself was a replacement for the original lead, Clyde McPhatter, who had replaced Little David Baughn.

During Rudy Lewis’ his short tenure with the Drifters he alternated as a lead singer with Johnny Moore and helped the group enter into its “fourth” golden era since the formation of the group in 1952.

05/20/2011