Who's behind the notes? Discover Ben E. King: The Soulful Voice Behind "Stand by Me"
"Stand by Me" is a classic song by Ben E. King. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the artist:
Songwriter Collaboration: "Stand by Me" was written by Ben E. King, Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller. It's based on a gospel song by the same name, but they reworked it into the iconic version we know today.
Release Date: The song was released in 1961 and became a hit on the R&B and pop charts. It has remained popular ever since.
Inspiration: Ben E. King was inspired to write "Stand by Me" after hearing a spiritual hymn in church. The song's message of friendship and support resonates with many listeners.
Cover Versions: Over the years, "Stand by Me" has been covered by numerous artists, including John Lennon, who recorded a famous version in 1975.
Movie Soundtrack: The song gained renewed popularity after being featured in the 1986 film of the same name, "Stand by Me," directed by Rob Reiner. This helped introduce the song to a new generation of listeners.
Library of Congress: In 2015, the Library of Congress selected "Stand by Me" for preservation in the National Recording Registry, recognizing its cultural and historical significance.
Global Impact: The song has been covered and performed by artists from around the world and has been used in various commercials and movies, making it a timeless classic with a global reach.
"Stand by Me" remains one of Ben E. King's most enduring and beloved songs, cherished for its emotional resonance and universal themes of support and unity.