We've been remiss in not noting the passing of the great Ben E. King (nee Nelson) on April 30, at the age of 76. King gained fame as a lead singer, and oftentimes songwriter, for the iconic group The Drifters on such songs as "There Goes My Baby" and "Save The Last Dance For Me." As a solo artist, King had a number of hits, including "Spanish Harlem" and the song we're featuring today.
It's the song he's perhaps best known for, which he co-wrote with greats Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller. In our opinion, it has powerful lyrics about love and friendship, one of the loveliest melodies and the best, most evocative orchestral bridge in rock music history. Plus he sings the hell out of it. "Stand By Me." Never a dry eye.
Rest in peace.
BONUS: Here's Tracy Chapman's gorgeous version of the song from two weeks ago:
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