Ben E. King – Solo Sessions 1960-1962

Vinyl LP pressing. The Solo Sessions 1960-62 presents the essential early solo work of Ben E King, one of the most distinctive and influential voices in soul and R&B. After first achieving success with The Drifters, King stepped into the spotlight as a solo artist in 1960, quickly establishing himself as a major force on the charts and across radio. His unique blend of emotional depth, warm baritone vocals and refined pop-soul arrangements helped shape the sound of the early 1960s and continues to resonate with listeners today. This collection brings together the standout recordings from those formative first years, beginning with the beautifully orchestrated classic Spanish Harlem." The global anthem "Stand By Me"-a song that remains one of the most enduring and recognisable in modern music-shows King at his most powerful and heartfelt. The set also features further chart successes including "Don't Play That Song (You Lied)" and a wealth of fan favourites such as "Ecstasy," "Young Boy Blues," "The Hermit of Misty Mountain," and "Walking in the Footsteps of a Fool." Across these tracks, King demonstrates remarkable versatility, moving seamlessly between tender balladry, dramatic pop-soul arrangements, and songs influenced by Latin and Caribbean rhythms. His performances highlight not just vocal command, but the ability to convey emotion with clarity, elegance and timeless appeal. Beautifully sequenced and curated, The Solo Sessions 1960-62 offers a definitive portrait of Ben E King in his early prime. This LP is essential for vinyl collectors, soul aficionados, and new listeners discovering the richness of King's catalogue. A must-have addition to any classic soul or early-'60s pop collection."

1. Spanish Harlem
2. First Taste of Love
3. Stand By Me
4. On the Horizon
5. Amor
6. Souvenir of Mexico
7. Here Comes the Night
8. Young Boy Blues
9. Ecstasy
10. Yes
11. Don't Play That Song (You Lied)
12. Hermit of Misty Mountain
13. Too Bad
14. My Heart Cries for You
15. Walking in the Footsteps of a Fool
16. I'm Standing By
17. Tell Daddy
18. Auf Wiedesehen, My Dear

Label: Acrobat

Catalog: 1706

Genre: Soul/R & B