About the song
“Stand by Me” by The Platters is a soulful and heartfelt ballad that beautifully showcases the group’s exceptional vocal talent and emotional depth. Released in 1956, this rendition of the classic song remains a poignant example of The Platters’ ability to interpret and convey profound feelings through their music.
The song was originally written and composed by Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller, two of the most influential songwriters of the 1950s. Leiber and Stoller, known for their innovative approach to songwriting and their ability to craft memorable melodies and lyrics, created “Stand by Me” with a sense of enduring commitment and loyalty. Their work has had a significant impact on the development of rhythm and blues, and “Stand by Me” is a testament to their skill in creating songs that resonate deeply with listeners.
Produced by Buck Ram, who was instrumental in shaping The Platters’ sound, “Stand by Me” benefits from Ram’s expertise in orchestrating lush arrangements that highlight the group’s smooth harmonies. The Platters’ version of the song is characterized by its rich, orchestral backing and the group’s signature vocal style, which adds a layer of emotional intensity to the song’s message of steadfast support and companionship.
In terms of chart performance, “Stand by Me” achieved notable success. It reached No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and No. 1 on the Billboard R&B chart. This success underscores the song’s broad appeal and the continued relevance of The Platters during the mid-1950s.
The track was included on the album The Platters, released in 1956. This album features a selection of the group’s hits from that period, with “Stand by Me” standing out as a particularly memorable and impactful track.
Overall, “Stand by Me” by The Platters remains a timeless classic, reflecting the group’s remarkable ability to convey deep emotion through their music. The song’s enduring popularity and its place in The Platters’ extensive body of work highlight their significant contribution to the legacy of vocal harmony and popular music.
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, no I won’t be afraid
Just as long as you stand, stand by me
And darlin’, darlin’, stand by me, oh now now stand by me
Stand by me, stand by me
If the sky that we look upon
Should tumble and fall
And the mountains 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
Stand by me, stand by me, stand by me, yeah
Whenever you’re in trouble won’t you stand by me, oh now now stand by me
Oh stand by me, stand by me, stand by me
Darlin’, darlin’, stand by me, stand by me
Oh stand by me, stand by me, stand by me