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Ben E. King is an iconic singer and songwriter, best known for his timeless hit "Stand by Me." Here are some interesting facts about him and the song:

1. "Stand by Me" Origins:

   • "Stand by Me" was written by Ben E. King, Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller. It was inspired by the gospel hymn "Lord Stand by Me," which King had heard in church as a child.

2. Released in 1961:

   • The song was originally released in 1961 as a single and later appeared on Ben E. King's album of the same name. It quickly became a chart-topping hit.

3. A Billboard Hit:

   • "Stand by Me" reached #4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1961 and became one of King's signature songs. It has since been covered by numerous artists and featured in various films and television shows.

4. Movie and Cultural Impact:

   • The song gained renewed popularity in 1986 when it was used as the title track for the movie "Stand by Me," directed by Rob Reiner. The film helped introduce the song to a new generation.

5. Grammy Hall of Fame:

   • In 1999, "Stand by Me" was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in recognition of its cultural and historical significance.

6. International Success:

   • The song also achieved international success, reaching high chart positions in the United Kingdom and other countries.

7. Covers and Samples:

   • "Stand by Me" has been covered by many artists, including John Lennon, who recorded his version in 1975. It has also been sampled in various hip-hop and R&B songs.

8. Songwriting Credits Dispute:

   • There was a legal dispute over the songwriting credits for "Stand by Me." King's managers initially omitted Leiber and Stoller's names from the credits, but they were eventually added after legal action. The three writers then shared the song's royalties.

9. Ben E. King's Legacy:

   • Ben E. King's contribution to the world of music extends beyond "Stand by Me." He was a member of the Drifters and sang lead vocals on their hits like "Save the Last Dance for Me" and "This Magic Moment." He continued to have a successful solo career and left a lasting impact on the music industry.

10. Passing and Legacy:

    • Ben E. King passed away on April 30, 2015, at the age of 76. His music, particularly "Stand by Me," continues to be celebrated and cherished by music lovers worldwide.

"Stand by Me" remains a classic song that has transcended generations and continues to resonate with people around the world for its timeless message of unity and support.