Who's behind the notes? Discover Ben E. King: The Soulful Voice Behind "Stand by Me"
Ben E. King's song "Stand by Me" is a timeless classic with a rich history. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the artist:
Inspiration and Co-Writers: "Stand by Me" was co-written by Ben E. King, Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller. The song's lyrics were inspired by the gospel hymn "Lord Stand by Me," and it draws from King's experiences growing up in a religious and musical household.
Release Date: The song was released as a single in 1961 and later included on Ben E. King's album "Don't Play That Song!" released the same year.
Chord Progression: One of the distinctive features of "Stand by Me" is its memorable chord progression. The song is known for its use of a simple yet effective four-chord sequence: A, F#m, D, and E. This progression has been widely used in many other songs as well.
Global Success: "Stand by Me" was a huge hit both in the United States and internationally. It reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and became an anthem for unity and enduring friendship.
Cultural Impact: The song's enduring popularity has led to its inclusion in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials over the decades. It has been covered and performed by countless artists from various genres.
Historical Significance: In 2015, "Stand by Me" gained renewed attention and popularity when it was featured in a commercial for the video game "Fallout 4." This exposure led to a resurgence of interest in the song, introducing it to a new generation of listeners.
Royal Wedding Performance: In 2018, the song gained even more global recognition when it was performed at the wedding of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle. The Kingdom Choir's rendition of "Stand by Me" during the wedding ceremony received widespread praise.
Library of Congress: In 2015, the Library of Congress selected "Stand by Me" for preservation in the National Recording Registry due to its cultural, historical, and artistic significance.
Cover Versions: Over the years, "Stand by Me" has been covered by numerous artists across various genres, including John Lennon, Tracy Chapman, Florence + The Machine, and Imagine Dragons.
Ben E. King's Legacy: Ben E. King's contribution to music extended beyond "Stand by Me." He was a prominent R&B and soul singer with other notable hits like "Spanish Harlem" and "Don't Play That Song (You Lied)." He was also a member of the legendary vocal group The Drifters before pursuing a solo career.
"Stand by Me" remains a beloved song that has stood the test of time, continuing to resonate with audiences around the world.