Why Did Ben E King Leave the Drifters

Due to contract disputes with Treadwell in which King and his manager, Lover Patterson, demanded greater compensation, King rarely performed with the Drifters on tour or on television.

Who replaced Ben E. King in The Drifters?

Ben E. King died on April 30, 2015, at the age of 76. Hobbs was drafted for military service and replaced by the returning Tommy Evans (from the first group).

Why did Ben E. King change his name?

In 1960, Ben Nelson approached Treadwell about a salary increase and fairer disbursement of royalties. When negotiations stalled, Nelson quit the Drifters and acquired his stage name, Ben E. King, the “King” coming from the name of his favorite uncle, and began a new solo career.