Album: Don't Play That Song!

Introduction
"Don't Play That Song!" is the third studio album released by American soul singer Ben E. King in 1962. The album was produced by the famous production duo Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller and was launched under the record label ATCO Records. This album even more strengthened King's status as a prominent figure in soul music and included a mix of ballads, uptempo dance tracks, and covers of popular songs.

Title Track and Hit Single
The album title stems from the lead single, "Don't Play That Song (You Lied)", which was composed by Atlantic Records manufacturer Ahmet Ertegun together with Betty Nelson. The tune tells the story of a male who is sad and asks the DJ not to play a specific song that advises him of his past love. The track became one of King's biggest hits, reaching No. 2 on the Billboard Hot R&B chart and No. 11 on the Hot 100 chart, becoming his 4th top-20 hit on the latter chart.

Other Notable Tracks
In addition to the title track, several other standout songs on the album include "Ecstasy", "On The Horizon", and "Show Me The Way". "Ecstasy" showcases King's capability to deliver an effective and passionate performance with a memorable tune. "On The Horizon" highlights King's skills as a balladeer, presenting a touching romance set to an arrangement by Stan Applebaum. Similarly, "Show Me The Way" is a romantic track that deals with the theme of yearning and searching for love.

Furthermore, King's performance of "Here Comes The Night" is another significant track worth mentioning. The tune would later on be famously covered by Them, with the diva Van Morrison, in 1965. Furthermore, King's cover of "Young Boy Blues" showcased his meaningful vocals and ability to deliver stirring emotions in his music.

Covers
Ben E. King's performance of pop music was an essential strength of this album, as it consisted of a few covers of known tunes. Among them was "The Hermit of Misty Mountain", originally carried out by Ray Charles. This soulful cover showcases King's ability to analyze a song and make it his own.

Another noteworthy cover on the album is "Brace Yourself", a Clarence Frogman Henry original. King's version of the tune is a vibrant, uptempo track that showcases his ability to get people on the dance flooring with his transmittable energy and beauty.

Tradition and Influence
"Don't Play That Song!" is a reflection of Ben E. King's adaptability as a singer, easily mixing soul, R&B, and pop aspects throughout the album. The record stands as a testimony to his outstanding vocal range and emotive performances that recorded the hearts of music lovers worldwide.

The album is considerable not only for its hit title track however likewise for the range of songs that showcased King's talent as a delicate balladeer and high-energy performer. "Don't Play That Song!" has unquestionably influenced many artists in the categories of soul, R&B, and pop music, leaving an enduring mark on the musical landscape.

In summary, "Don't Play That Song!" develops Ben E. King as a versatile and long-lasting figure in the pantheon of soul and R&B music. With its mix of memorable hits, moving ballads, and reimagined covers, the album continues to enjoy a long lasting legacy and influence among music lovers and artists alike.