Brook Benton
Brook Benton, born Benjamin Franklin Peay on September 19, 1931, in Lugoff, South Carolina, was a prominent American singer and songwriter. Benton's music career spanned from 1948 to 1988, during which he became known for his contributions to pop, rhythm and blues, and soul music. He began his musical journey singing gospel in his father's church choir before moving to New York in 1948. There, he joined groups such as The Langfordaires and The Sandmen, eventually leading to a solo career.
Benton's breakthrough came in 1959 with the hits "It's Just a Matter of Time" and "Endlessly," both co-written with Clyde Otis. These songs marked the beginning of a successful partnership with Mercury Records, where he recorded several chart-topping singles. Among his notable hits were "The Boll Weevil Song," "Hotel Happiness," and duets with Dinah Washington, including "Baby (You've Got What It Takes)" and "A Rockin' Good Way."
Throughout his career, Benton achieved over 50 Billboard chart hits, with eight reaching the top 10. His last major hit was the 1970 ballad "Rainy Night in Georgia." Benton passed away on April 9, 1988, in Queens, New York, leaving behind a legacy as a versatile and influential artist in American music.