search
Get Started
search
Ben E. King - Stand by Me - Ballad
zoom_in Click to enlarge

Ben E. King - Stand by Me

description Ben E. King - Stand by Me Overview

Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me” is a timeless 1961 soul ballad renowned for its simple yet profoundly moving lyrics about loyalty and support. The song's enduring popularity stems from its universal theme of companionship and its prominent use in numerous films. It remains a staple of classic R&B and continues to resonate with audiences seeking heartfelt expressions of connection, particularly those who appreciate traditional music or are drawn to cinematic scores.

help Ben E. King - Stand by Me FAQ

What movie features the song "Stand by Me" by Ben E. King?

The song "Stand by Me" was famously used as the title track for the 1986 coming-of-age film "Stand by Me," directed by Rob Reiner. The movie is based on Stephen King's novella "The Body." The film's success introduced the 1961 ballad to a whole new generation of fans.

Who wrote the song "Stand by Me"?

"Stand by Me" was written by Ben E. King, Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller. King originally intended to offer the song to The Drifters, the group he had recently left. However, Stoller convinced King to record it himself, resulting in a Top 10 hit in 1961.

What inspired the lyrics to "Stand by Me"?

The song's lyrics were partly inspired by the 1905 gospel hymn "Stand By Me," composed by Charles Albert Tindley. Ben E. King adapted the spiritual theme of seeking support during difficult times into a secular love and loyalty ballad. It has since become a universal anthem of companionship.

How high did "Stand by Me" chart when it was released?

When first released in 1961, "Stand by Me" reached number four on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart. It also spent time at the top of the U.S. R&B charts. The song experienced a massive resurgence in 1986 following the release of the film, re-entering the top ten.

Reviews & Comments

Write a Review

rate_review

Be the first to review

Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.

Save to your list

Save your favorites and follow how their scores change over time.

Save favorites
Get updates
Compare scores

Already have an account? Sign in

Compare Items

See how they stack up against each other

Comparing
VS
Select 1 more item to compare