Elected to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame (as a member of The Drifters) in 1988.
Founded The Drifters and was lead singer from 1953-1955.
His election to the Hall in 1987 was as a solo artist.
Lead singer of Billy Ward's Dominoes (aka Billy Ward & The Dominoes) from 1950-1953.
Was drafted into the U.S. Army in 1955, was released in 1957.
Was one of the performers featured on a set of stamps of rock and blues legends issued by the U.S. Postal Service in June 1993.
Went solo before his Army hitch was up and had several hits including "Seven Days", "Without Love (There Is Nothing)", "Long, Lonely Nights", Treasure Of Love" and "Lover Please".