The Drifters are several American doo-wop and R&B/soul vocal groups. They were originally formed as a backing group for Clyde McPhatter. The second group of Drifters formed in 1959 led by Ben E. King were originally an up-and-coming group named The Five Crowns. After 1965 members drifted in and out of both groups and many of these formed other groups of Drifters as well. Several groups of Drifters can trace roots back to these original groups, but contain few if any original members. According to the Vocal Group Hall of Fame: "Through turmoil and changes, the (original) Drifters managed to set musical trends and give the public 13 chart hits, most of which are legendary recordings today." Bill Pinkney with Original Drifter inscription & Lee Logan + 2 more have all hand signed The Drifters' Golden Hits Album CD/Cover & Case. Music Row Autographs Certificate of Authenticity.