Clyde McPhatter

Clyde McPhatter
Singer

Clyde McPhatter was an American rhythm and blues singer.
Clyde Lensley McPhatter was born in Durham, North Carolina on November 15, 1932 was raised in a Baptist family. At the age of five, he sang in his father's church gospel choir. In 1950, he won the coveted Amateur Night at Harlem's Apollo Theater contest.
In 1951, he was recruited by Billy Ward and his Dominoes for the recording of "Sixty Minute Man". After recording several more songs with the Dominoes, including "Have Mercy Baby", "Do Something for Me," and "The Bells", McPhatter left the Dominoes on May 7, 1953.

McPhatter formed a group "The Drifters". They recorded a few tracks in June 1953, including "Lucille", written by McPhatter. In late 1954, McPhatter left the Drifters and launched a solo career.
In 1955, McPhatter recorded his first solo hit, "Love Has Joined Us Together", with Ruth Brown.

He died on June 13, 1972, at the age of 39, of complications of heart, liver, and kidney disease.