“P” is for Pinkney, Bill (1925-2007)

“P” is for Pinkney, Bill (1925-2007). A native of Dalzell, Pinkney began singing gospel songs as a child working in Sumter County’s cotton fields. He would go on to a stellar career performing around the globe as an original member of the Drifters. The group became a rhythm and blues (R&B) pioneer, and in 1954 signed a contract with Atlantic Records. In 1988 members of the Drifters were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Moving beyond their gospel origins the Drifters became internationally famous, creating a unique sweet soul sound that expanded the R&B genre. The Drifters’ best-selling song, “White Christmas,” was recorded in 1954 and featured Pinkney as lead bass singer. Well into his seventies, Bill Pinkney continued to perform with the Original Drifters, a permutation of the legendary group.