Stand By Me – Ben E. King
“Stand By Me” is a classic song recorded by Ben E. King. It was released in 1961 and has since become one of the most well-known and beloved songs in popular music. Ben E. King, born Benjamin Earl Nelson on September 28, 1938, was an American soul and R&B singer. He had a successful career as both a solo artist and as a member of The Drifters.
“Stand By Me” was written by Ben E. King, along with Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. The song was inspired by a gospel hymn called “Lord Stand by Me,” and King wanted to create a secular version with a more contemporary sound. The song’s lyrics speak of the strength and support found in a loving relationship, with the chorus declaring, “So darlin’, darlin’, stand by me, oh, stand by me.”
The song was originally released as a single and later included on King’s debut studio album, also titled “Don’t Play That Song!” The single was a massive success, reaching number four on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and number one on the R&B chart in the United States. It also achieved significant success internationally, reaching high chart positions in several countries.
Over the years, “Stand By Me” has been covered by numerous artists from various genres, further solidifying its status as a timeless classic. Notably, in 1986, the song experienced a resurgence in popularity when it was prominently featured as the title track for the coming-of-age film “Stand by Me,” directed by Rob Reiner. The film’s use of the song helped introduce it to a new generation and led to a renewed appreciation for the track.
“Stand By Me” has since been recognized as one of the greatest songs of all time. It has been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame and has received numerous accolades and honors. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its heartfelt lyrics, King’s soulful vocals, and the timeless quality of its melody.
Ben E. King continued to have a successful career as a singer and songwriter, with other notable hits including “Spanish Harlem” and “There Goes My Baby.” He passed away on April 30, 2015, leaving behind a legacy as one of the greatest soul singers of his time.
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April 20, 2022 @ 10:37 am
Still love this song and his voice – perfect for those good memories…..when we could hear “good” music! Yeah!!
January 27, 2020 @ 1:27 pm
I have loved this song ever since I first heard it
August 3, 2017 @ 12:38 pm
Loved this song. Danced to it in the 60s
January 27, 2020 @ 11:02 am
Love, love this song. Songs like this take you places in the heart at times when you need to. Ben Kings voice is fantastic.
January 28, 2020 @ 10:26 pm
Totally agree, Katie. Great to hear the “good” music of those days. And this is one of the very best!
November 21, 2016 @ 5:39 pm
great song by Ben E.
December 14, 2015 @ 1:35 pm
Great Song. I remember this song and always loved it. These where the days when music was real.
October 14, 2015 @ 8:53 am
Love this song by Ben E. Stand by Me……Js
October 7, 2015 @ 11:34 am
love this song
October 5, 2015 @ 6:19 pm
I have really enjoyed all the music. Brings back a lot of good memories.There are 2 songs Iwould really like to hear again. Blue blird of Paradise and Dust in the wind.
October 3, 2015 @ 5:26 pm
Really brought back sweet memories listening to this misic. Makes me so sad that my grandchildren, and great grands will never know the Wonderful America I grew up in. It is gone forever. Some of the politicians say they will bring it back, but there are too many that do not want it brought back.
Talking to my daughter today, I reminded her that we hardly ever locked our doors. Would not have made any difference. Every one had a lock and a skeleton key. That key would open every door. I still have mine I carried to school in the first grade. I was 79 this year. Interesting isn’t it. We trusted everyone!! Wouldn’t trade one hour of my growing up days with anyone today.
Thanks for the music!!
October 3, 2015 @ 4:02 pm
I’m 82 (born 2-11-’33)…….yes, those days are gone….too bad. The young will never know….I’m lucky, my 7 grand children, are ages 4yrs. – 34yrs, & 3 great grandchildren 2, 4, & 8yrs.
October 3, 2015 @ 10:26 am
You’re so right, they were the good ole days. Hardly any crime, rapes, fear of walking down a dark street, riots and none of the other crap we have going on in these times. And back in those days smoking a joint was a big deal, now we have kids not even in their teens yet smoking like a chimney, not to mention the hard stuff. Most girls today have no shame at all, they let the boys look, feel and do anything they want anymore, check out Miley, and she’s a well known celebrity showing off her naked body on TV and everywhere. When I was a teenager just feeling a girl’s breast was like hitting a home run for me. Yea, those times will never come back, this world can never be the same and I have to say, even though our time is ticking away, and I’m 75 now, I wouldn’t change my life if it was possible and be a teenager again, and not have those days to cherish in my memory, no way. I feel sorry for the good kids out there today that have to face God knows what the world will be like if and when they’ll be our age. I’m sorry I’ll never get to see my granddaughter grow up, she’s only 6 years old now. The ole tick tock waits for no one. Take care and enjoy whatever time you have remaining and I’ll do the same.
Luke
ps. You made a mistake in your math, your age is right but 17 + 64 = 81, so it’s only been 54 years and not 64.