Fresh Air Roots of R&B: 'Stand By Me'
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Aug 29, 2025 
Ben E. King, the soulful legend behind "Stand by Me," reflects on his transformative career, sharing insights from his early days with The Drifters to the song's enduring legacy. Jerry Wexler, the man who coined 'rhythm and blues,' discusses his influential role at Atlantic Records and collaborations with icons like Aretha Franklin. They delve into the songwriting secrets behind classics and the emotional depth of R&B, highlighting how these legendary artists shaped American music history.
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Fired, Then Launched Solo Career
- Ben E. King was fired after asking for better pay for the Drifters and walked out expecting others to follow.
- Lover Patterson convinced him to stay in music and helped launch his solo career.
Producers Can Redefine Careers
- Spanish Harlem became Ben E. King's solo launch after Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller convinced Atlantic to credit him.
- Songwriters and producers could shift an artist's path by advocating for solo billing.
Ghost Credit On Stand By Me
- Ben E. King wrote Stand By Me but later discovered Elmo Glick (a pen name) took co-writing credit.
- He revealed he only learned years later that Jerry Leiber and Mike Stoller had used that pseudonym.