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 that was released in 1961. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Origin: Ben E. King co-wrote "Stand by Me" with Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. The song draws inspiration from the gospel hymn "Lord Stand by Me."
Recording: The song was originally recorded at Atlantic Studios in New York City. The session musicians included notable figures like guitarist Mike Stoller and drummer Gary Chester.
Release and Success: "Stand by Me" was released as a single in 1961 and later became the title track for Ben E. King's album. It achieved immediate success, reaching the top 10 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Movie Soundtrack: The song gained renewed popularity after being featured in the 1986 film of the same name, directed by Rob Reiner. This exposure led to a re-release of the song, and it once again climbed the charts.
Cover Versions: "Stand by Me" has been covered by numerous artists across different genres. Notable versions include renditions by John Lennon, Prince Royce, and Florence + The Machine.
Rolling Stone's Ranking: Rolling Stone magazine ranked "Stand by Me" at number 121 on its list of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time.
Global Impact: The song's universal theme of loyalty and support has contributed to its enduring popularity. It has been embraced worldwide and has been used in various movies, TV shows, and commercials.
"Stand by Me" remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its soulful melody and poignant lyrics.