Hank Ballard was an influential American R&B singer and songwriter, known for his distinctive style that blended gospel and blues. Active primarily during the 1950s and 1960s, Ballard was a key figure in the transition from rhythm and blues to soul music. He is perhaps best known for writing and recording "The Twist," which later became a massive hit for Chubby Checker. Ballard's vocal style and his band, The Midnighters, had a significant impact on the development of popular music, particularly in the genres of rock and roll and soul.