About the Song
Background
- Inspiration: The song’s original inspiration came from the gospel hymn “Lord Stand By Me”. It also draws elements from Psalm 23 (“The Lord is my shepherd”).
- Writing: Ben E. King, Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller are the credited songwriters. However, Ben E. King played a central role in the song’s creation. Originally conceived for his group The Drifters, King was ultimately given the chance to record it solo.
- Otis Redding’s Version: Otis Redding released his version of “Stand By Me” in 1964. His soulful, passionate rendition transformed the song, cementing its place as a timeless classic.
Themes
- Devotion and Steadfastness: The primary theme is unshakeable devotion and support in times of need. The singer pleads for someone to stand by them through darkness, uncertainty, and fear.
- Resilience: There’s a sense of strength and overcoming adversity. The song implies that with the support of another, even the toughest trials can be endured.
- Vulnerability: At its core, the song showcases a moment of profound vulnerability where the singer reveals a strong need for companionship and reassurance.
Lyrics
Here’s a breakdown of some key lyrical sections:
- “When the night has come…” This sets the tone with a sense of loneliness and the oncoming darkness of difficulties.
- “So darling, darling, stand by me…” The central plea and the song’s most iconic line, highlighting the desperate need for support.
- “If the mountains should crumble to the sea…” A metaphor for immense challenges and life’s unpredictability. It suggests that even amidst extreme upheavals, the singer will endure if someone stands by them.
Legacy
Otis Redding’s “Stand By Me” has become a timeless anthem of human connection and resilience. It’s been covered countless times, featured in movies like the film of the same name, and continues to resonate because of its universal themes of companionship, loyalty, and perseverance in the face of hardship.
Video
Lyrics
When the night has comeAnd the land is darkAnd the moon is the onlyOnly light we seeNo, I won’t be afraidNo no no no no noNo, I won’t be afraidJust as long, just as longJust as long as you stand by me
Now darling, darlingWhenever I’m in troubleDarling, won’t you standI need just a little helping handNow now nowAnd darling, darlingWon’t you stand by me
If the sky we look upon now, nowShould tumble and fallAll of the mountains may crumbleMay crumble to the seaI won’t cry, I won’t cryNo no no no no, I won’t shed no tearsJust as long, just as longJust as long as you stand by me
Now darling, darlingI said I need somebody right nowI need just a little helping handI need someone to come pick me upAnd stand by meCome on, come on, baby, yeahMy my my my baby, whoaCome on, come on and stand, stand by me
And darling, darling stand by meCome on, pretty baby, and stand nowStand, stand by meCome on and help me, babyI need a little lovin’Come on and stand, stand by meWhenever I’m in troubleWon’t you stand byCome on and stand by me, my babyCome onI need a little bit of love