Who's behind the notes? Discover Ben E. King: The Soulful Voice Behind "Stand by Me"
"Stand by Me" is a timeless classic by Ben E. King, and here are some interesting facts about the song and the artist:
Co-Writers: "Stand by Me" was co-written by Ben E. King (credited as Ben King), Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller. The songwriting duo Leiber and Stoller were prolific in the early days of rock 'n' roll and wrote many hits for artists like Elvis Presley and The Coasters.
Inspiration: The song's inspiration came from the gospel hymn "Lord Stand by Me." Ben E. King had a background in gospel music, and this influence is evident in the song's emotional and spiritual depth.
Recording: Ben E. King recorded "Stand by Me" in 1960 as a member of The Drifters. It was originally intended as a Drifters track, but King's distinctive lead vocal made it a standout performance. King's departure from The Drifters shortly after the recording led to him being credited as a solo artist on the song.
Chart Success: "Stand by Me" reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States and became a worldwide hit. It has since been covered by numerous artists, further cementing its status as a classic.
Movie Soundtrack: The song's popularity was revitalized in 1986 when it was featured prominently in the film of the same name, "Stand by Me," directed by Rob Reiner. The movie's soundtrack helped introduce the song to a new generation of listeners.
Music Preservation: In 2012, the Library of Congress selected "Stand by Me" for preservation in the National Recording Registry for its cultural and historical significance. It's considered one of the most important and enduring songs in American popular music.
Cover Versions: Over the years, "Stand by Me" has been covered by a wide range of artists, including John Lennon, Prince Royce, Florence + The Machine, and many others. These covers have helped keep the song relevant and popular in various music genres.
Sampled in Hip-Hop: "Stand by Me" has also been sampled in numerous hip-hop songs, showcasing its enduring influence on contemporary music. Artists like Tupac Shakur and Dr. Dre have used samples from the song in their tracks.
Legacy: Ben E. King's legacy extends beyond "Stand by Me." He had a successful solo career and contributed to the development of soul and R&B music. He was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as a member of The Drifters and received various honors for his musical contributions.
Charity Work: In addition to his music career, Ben E. King was involved in charitable work and supported causes such as homelessness and children's education. His impact on both the music industry and humanitarian efforts is part of his lasting legacy.
"Stand by Me" remains a beloved song that continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, making it a true classic in the realm of popular music.