Otis Redding

Lyrics

[Verse 1]
When the night has come
And the land is dark
And the moon is the only
Only light we see
No, I won't be afraid
No, no, no, no, no, no
No, I won't be afraid
Just as long, just as long
Just as long as you stand by me

[Chorus]
Now darling, darling
Whenever I'm in trouble
Darling, won't you stand
I need just a little helping hand
Now, now, now
And darling, darling
Won't you stand by me

[Verse 2]
If the sky we look upon, now, now
Should tumble and fall
All of the mountains may crumble
May crumble to the sea
I won't cry, I won't cry
No, no, no, no, no, I won't shed no tears
Just as long, just as long
Just as long as you stand by me
[Chorus]
Now darling, darling
I said I need somebody right now
I need just a little helping hand
Need someone to come pick me up
And let you stand by me
Come on, come on now, baby, yeah
Baby, come on, come on and stand, stand by me
And darling, darling, stand by me
Come on, pretty baby, stand there, stand, stand by me
Come on and help me, baby
I need a little love, come on and stand right be
Whenever I'm in trouble, won't you stand
Come on and stand by me
My, my, my, my, my baby, come on
I need a little bit of love
I need someone to come on, darling, just stand by meEmbed

If there's one song that has stood the test of time and remains a universal anthem of love and friendship, it's Otis Redding's "Stand By Me". This timeless track has been covered by several artists over the years, cementing its place as a classic in the music world. With its meaningful lyrics, soulful melody, and Redding's captivating voice, "Stand By Me" is a song that touches the heart and soul of anyone who listens to it.

About Stand By Me

"Stand By Me" was originally written and recorded by Ben E. King in 1960. The song quickly became an instant classic, but it was Otis Redding's version that truly cemented its place in music history. Redding recorded the song in 1964, and it was released as part of the album Otis Blue/Otis Redding Sings Soul. The album was a commercial success and helped to establish Otis Redding as one of the greatest soul musicians of all time.

From the moment that the first notes of "Stand By Me" are heard, it's clear that this is a song that comes from the heart. The melody is simple but effective, blending a slow tempo and a deep bass line with soaring horns and Redding's distinctive voice. But it's the lyrics that truly make the song stand out.

The lyrics of "Stand By Me" are a powerful tribute to friendship and loyalty. They speak of the deep bonds that tie us to the people we hold close, and the importance of standing by someone in their time of need. From the first verse to the final chorus, the song is an uplifting and inspiring message of love and support.

But while the lyrics are undoubtedly the highlight of the song, it's impossible to ignore the sheer talent of Otis Redding as a singer and musician. Redding's soulful voice is the perfect match for the song's emotional depth, and his distinctive style and technique set him apart as one of the greatest musicians of his generation.

Over the years, "Stand By Me" has been covered by many different artists. Everyone from John Lennon to Tracy Chapman has performed their own interpretation of the song, each bringing their own unique style and perspective to the classic track. But no matter how many times the song is covered, it remains a testament to the power of friendship, loyalty, and love.

In the end, "Stand By Me" is more than just a song. It's an anthem of hope and support, a reminder that we are never truly alone as long as we have the love and friendship of those around us. It's a song that has stood the test of time, and will continue to inspire and uplift for generations to come.

• Release Date: 1964
• Artist: Otis Redding