The Forgotten Sounds of the ’50s Music Scene

Hank Ballard’s group broke boundaries with bold lyrics and danceable beats. Their 1954 hit “Work with Me Annie” shocked censors yet ruled the charts. Ballard’s gritty voice shaped future soul and R&B singers. He also wrote “The Twist,” later made famous by Chubby Checker. Their fearless energy helped define rock’s rebellious spirit forever.