Seven Letters - Ben E. King
"Seven Letters" is a soulful ballad by Ben E. King that was released in 1965. The song talks about a man who receives seven letters from his lover, each one revealing a different aspect of their relationship. The lyrics convey feelings of love, longing, and heartbreak as the man reads through the letters. The composition of the song is characterized by King's smooth and emotive vocals, accompanied by a lush arrangement of strings and horns. The melody is melancholic yet beautiful, evoking a sense of nostalgia and yearning. One notable fact about "Seven Letters" is that it was written by King himself, showcasing his talents not only as a singer but also as a songwriter. The song became a hit in the 1960s, solidifying King's reputation as a prominent figure in the soul music genre. Overall, "Seven Letters" is a timeless classic that captures the complexities of love and relationships with its poignant lyrics and soulful melody. It remains a beloved track in Ben E. King's discography and continues to resonate with listeners to this day.
Ben E. King
Ben E. King, born Benjamin Earl Nelson on September 28, 1938, in Henderson, North Carolina, was an American soul and R&B singer. He is best known for his smooth, velvety voice and timeless hits such as "Stand by Me" and "Spanish Harlem." King's family moved to Harlem, New York, when he was a child, and he began singing in church choirs and doo-wop groups. In the late 1950s, he joined a group called The Five Crowns, which later became The Drifters. While with The Drifters, King recorded some of his most iconic songs, including "There Goes My Baby" and "Save the Last Dance for Me." In 1960, King left The Drifters to pursue a solo career. That same year, he released his first solo single, "Spanish Harlem," which became a hit and established him as a solo artist. However, it was his 1961 single "Stand by Me" that solidified his status as a music legend. The song reached number 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and has since become a classic, covered by countless artists and featured in movies and TV shows. Throughout his career, King continued to release successful singles, including "I (Who Have Nothing)" and "Supernatural Thing." He also collaborated with other artists, such as The Average White Band on the hit song "A Star in the Ghetto." Ben E. King's impact on music is undeniable. His soulful voice and heartfelt lyrics have inspired generations of musicians and fans alike. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Drifters in 1988 and as a solo artist in 2015. His music continues to be celebrated and cherished by audiences around the world. Sadly, Ben E. King passed away on April 30, 2015, but his music lives on as a testament to his talent and legacy in the world of soul and R&B.