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:
Songwriting Collaboration: "Stand by Me" was co-written by Ben E. King (credited under his birth name Benjamin Earl Nelson), Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller. Leiber and Stoller were well-known songwriters and producers in the 1950s and 1960s, responsible for many hit songs.
Inspiration from a Gospel Hymn: The song's melody and some of its lyrics were inspired by the 1905 gospel hymn "Lord Stand by Me." Ben E. King heard the hymn while touring with The Drifters and decided to create a secular version.
Recording Session: The song was recorded in 1960 at Atlantic Records' studios in New York City. The session featured prominent musicians like guitarist Phil Spector and drummer Gary Chester.
Instant Success: "Stand by Me" was an instant success, reaching No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States. It also became a hit in several other countries.
Movie Soundtrack: The song gained renewed popularity in 1986 when it was used as the title track for the coming-of-age film "Stand by Me," directed by Rob Reiner and based on a Stephen King novella. This led to a resurgence in the song's popularity.
Cover Versions: "Stand by Me" has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including John Lennon, Otis Redding, Tracy Chapman, and Prince Royce, among others. John Lennon's cover in particular became a hit.
Song's Message: The lyrics of "Stand by Me" convey a message of friendship, support, and unity. The song's enduring appeal is partly due to its universal themes of loyalty and camaraderie.
Music Awards: "Stand by Me" has received various awards and recognitions over the years. In 2012, it was inducted into the Library of Congress' National Recording Registry for its cultural significance.
Ben E. King's Legacy: Ben E. King continued to have a successful career in music, both as a solo artist and as a member of The Drifters. He passed away in 2015, leaving behind a legacy of soulful and timeless music.
Impact on Popular Culture: "Stand by Me" remains a beloved and influential song. It has been used in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its place in popular culture.
"Stand by Me" is not just a song; it's a musical masterpiece that has touched the hearts of generations and will likely continue to do so for years to come.