Who's behind the notes? Discover Ben E. King: The Soulful Voice Behind "Stand by Me"
"Stand by Me" is a classic soul song written by Ben E. King, Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller. Here are some interesting facts about the song:
Release Year: "Stand by Me" was released in 1961 as a single and later included on Ben E. King's album of the same name.
Inspiration: The song's inspiration came from a gospel hymn titled "Lord Stand by Me." Ben E. King's experience in gospel music influenced the emotional and heartfelt nature of the song.
Popularity and Covers: The song gained immense popularity and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Notable renditions include those by John Lennon, Prince Royce, and Florence + The Machine.
Film Title and Soundtrack: The song's popularity endured when it was used as the title track for the 1986 film "Stand by Me," directed by Rob Reiner. The movie's soundtrack prominently featured Ben E. King's version.
Billboard Success: "Stand by Me" reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in the United States upon its initial release in 1961. It has since become one of King's signature songs.
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 aesthetic significance.
Global Impact: The song's universal theme of love and support has made it resonate globally, earning it a place in the hearts of listeners across different generations.
"Stand by Me" remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its soulful melody and enduring message.