American R&B singer and songwriter Hank Ballard (1927–2003) rose to prominence in the 1950s as the frontman for The Midnighters. He was a pivotal figure in the development of rock and roll, penning and performing hits like "Work With Me, Annie" and the original version of "The Twist." Ballard's raw, energetic style and suggestive lyrics significantly influenced early rock and roll and R&B.