Ben E. King, the singer behind the hit song "Stand By Me," died on Thursday, his booking agent, Randy Irwin, confirmed to ABC News.

Ben E. King was the lead singer of The Drifters, and later went solo with such hits as "Stand By Me" and "Spanish Harlem." He died 2015. Originally broadcast in 1988.

More than 600 people filled a church in northern New Jersey to pay final respects and celebrate the life of singer Ben E. King.

Discover 8 timeless Ben E. King songs that go beyond “Stand By Me.” From soulful ballads to funky hits, explore why his music still resonates with new generations.

Def Leppard released a cover of Ben E. King's 'Stand By Me' to benefit Southern California wildfire victims in January 2025.