Brook Benton was a commanding presence in the music world, known for his smooth baritone voice and emotive delivery. Born Benjamin Franklin Peay on September 19, 1931, in Lugoff, South Carolina, Benton showed an early passion for music, singing in church choirs and local gospel groups. His journey to stardom began when he moved to New York City in the late 1940s, determined to make his mark.
In the 1950s, Benton found initial success as a songwriter, penning hits for artists like Nat King Cole and Clyde McPhatter. His own breakthrough came in 1959 with the release of “It’s Just a Matter of Time,” a soulful ballad that topped the R&B charts and reached the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100. This track showcased Benton’s rich, resonant voice and knack for storytelling, qualities that would become his trademarks.
Throughout the 1960s, Benton continued to produce a string of hits, including “Endlessly,” “So Many Ways,” and the unforgettable duet with Dinah Washington, “Baby (You’ve Got What It Takes).” His versatility was evident as he navigated genres, blending pop, R&B, and soul seamlessly. Albums like Songs I Love to Sing and That Old Feeling solidified his status as a master interpreter of love songs and standards.
Despite changes in musical trends, Benton remained relevant, adapting his style while staying true to his roots. He experienced a resurgence in the late 1960s with the hit single “Rainy Night in Georgia,” which became an enduring classic.
Brook Benton passed away on April 9, 1988, leaving a rich legacy of musical greatness.
