Who First Sang ‘Drift Away’- The Original Performer Behind the Classic Hit
Who sang “Drift Away” first? This question often comes up when discussing the iconic song that has become a staple in American music. The answer, surprisingly, is not the artist you might initially think of. Let’s delve into the history of this classic tune and uncover the true pioneer behind “Drift Away.”
Drift Away was first performed by Dobie Gray, an American soul singer born on December 5, 1940, in Saint Louis, Missouri. The song was released in 1973 and quickly became a commercial success, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also earned Gray a Grammy Award for Best Male R&B Vocal Performance in 1974.
Dobie Gray’s version of “Drift Away” was a cover of a song originally written and recorded by Porter Wagoner in 1964. Wagoner, a country music singer, was the first to perform the song, but it was Gray’s rendition that propelled it to fame. Gray’s soulful voice and smooth delivery gave the song a new lease on life, making it a staple in the soul and R&B genres.
The song’s lyrics, which speak of a longing for a peaceful escape from the chaos of life, resonate with listeners across generations. Its catchy melody and poignant message have made it a timeless classic that continues to be celebrated today.
Despite the success of his cover, Gray faced some controversy regarding the song. Wagoner, who had recorded the original version, sued Gray for copyright infringement. However, the lawsuit was eventually dropped, and Gray was allowed to keep the rights to his rendition of “Drift Away.”
Over the years, “Drift Away” has been covered by numerous artists, including the Doors, who performed a live version of the song that has become a fan favorite. Despite the many covers, Dobie Gray’s original version remains the most iconic and beloved rendition of the song.
In conclusion, the answer to the question “Who sang ‘Drift Away’ first?” is Dobie Gray. His soulful and heartfelt performance of the song has cemented its place in music history and ensured that it will continue to be cherished for generations to come.
