About the song
Ben E. King (born September 28, 1938) was an American soul singer. He is best known for his 1961 hit single “Stand by Me“, which has become a standard and has been covered by hundreds of artists. King was born Benjamin Earl Nelson in Henderson, North Carolina. He began his singing career in the early 1950s with a doo-wop group called the Five Crowns. In 1958, he joined the Drifters, where he sang lead on several hits, including “There Goes My Baby” and “This Magic Moment”.
In 1960, King left the Drifters to pursue a solo career. His first solo single, “Spanish Harlem”, was a Top 10 hit. The following year, he released “Stand by Me“, which became an even bigger hit, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The song was written by King along with Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. It is a simple, yet powerful song about friendship and love. The song’s lyrics have resonated with people of all ages for generations.
“Stand by Me” has been used in numerous films and television shows, including “The Shawshank Redemption”, “Stand by Me”, and “The Wonder Years”. It has also been covered by many artists, including John Lennon, Otis Redding, and Florence + The Machine.
Ben E. King continued to record and perform throughout his career. He released several more hit singles, including “Don’t Play That Song (You Lied)” and “I (Who Have Nothing)”. He also toured extensively, performing all over the world.
Ben E. King died on April 30, 2015, at the age of 76. He was a true legend of soul music. His music will continue to inspire and touch people for generations to come.
“Stand by Me” is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. It is a song that is both simple and profound, and its message of friendship and love is as relevant today as it was when it was first released. King’s soulful vocals and the song’s unforgettable melody have made it a favorite of fans of all ages. “Stand by Me” is a song that will continue to be sung and enjoyed for many years to come.