About the song
“Stand by Me” is a timeless classic originally performed in 1961 by American singer-songwriter Ben E. King, whose collaboration with Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller birthed this enduring anthem. The song’s title and theme were inspired by a spiritual tune titled “Stand by Me Father,” recorded by the Soul Stirrers featuring Johnnie Taylor. Ben E. King’s rendition quickly became iconic, celebrated for its soulful melody and poignant lyrics.
The song gained renewed popularity when it was prominently featured on the soundtrack of the 1986 film “Stand by Me,” directed by Rob Reiner. This association catapulted the song back into public consciousness, bolstered by a music video featuring King alongside actors River Phoenix and Wil Wheaton, further solidifying its place in popular culture.
Beyond its film soundtrack success, “Stand by Me” received a significant boost in Europe through its use in a 1987 commercial for Levi’s 501 jeans. This exposure contributed to its resurgence and increased its global reach, solidifying its status as a beloved classic.
Financially, the song has been a powerhouse, with royalties estimated to have exceeded $22.8 million by 2012, a testament to its enduring popularity and cultural impact. This financial success underscored its status as one of the highest-earning songs of its era, with Ben E. King receiving half of the royalties, highlighting its importance in his career.
In recognition of its cultural significance, Ben E. King’s original recording of “Stand by Me” was inducted into the National Recording Registry by the Library of Congress in 2015, less than five weeks before King’s passing. This prestigious honor solidified the song’s place in American musical history, acknowledging its profound impact on generations of listeners.
Throughout the years, “Stand by Me” has been covered by over 400 artists across various genres, including notable renditions by Otis Redding, John Lennon, Tracy Chapman, and Florence and the Machine. Each rendition pays homage to the song’s universal themes of loyalty, support, and enduring love, resonating with audiences worldwide and ensuring its legacy for years to come.
Video
Lyrics
When the night has come
And the land is dark
And the moon is the only light we’ll see
No, I won’t be afraid
Oh, I won’t be afraid
Just as long as you stand
Stand by me
So darlin’, darlin’, stand by me
Oh, stand by me
Oh, stand
Stand by me, stand by me
If the sky that we look upon
Should tumble and fall
Or the mountain should crumble to the sea
I won’t cry, I won’t cry
No, I won’t shed a tear
Just as long as you stand
Stand by me
And darlin’, darlin’, stand by me
Oh, stand by me
Oh, stand now
Stand by me, stand by me
And darlin’, darlin’, stand by me
Oh, stand by me
Oh, stand now
Stand by me, stand by me
Whenever you’re in trouble won’t you stand by me
Oh, stand by me
Won’t you stand by