All week we're revisiting archival interviews with key figures in early rock and roll, rockabilly and R&B. Soul singer Ben E. King began his career in the ‘50s with The Drifters but it was the '61 hit "Stand by Me" that sealed his musical legacy. He spoke to Fresh Air in 1988. We also listen back to a 1991 interview with lyricist Jerry Leiber and composer Mike Stoller, who wrote and produced music for King. Plus, we'll revisit Terry Gross' 1993 interview with Jerry Wexler, the hitmaker who coined the term "rhythm and blues."Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
No persons identified in this episode.
This episode hasn't been transcribed yet
Help us prioritize this episode for transcription by upvoting it.
Popular episodes get transcribed faster
Other episodes from Fresh Air
Transcribed and ready to explore now
Who Is Laura Loomer, Trump's 'Loyalty Enforcer'?
12 Nov 2025
Fresh Air
Nutrition, SNAP & Why We Need A Food Revolution
11 Nov 2025
Fresh Air
Tim Robbins Believes In The Power Of Theater
10 Nov 2025
Fresh Air
Best Of: Judd Apatow / Misty Copeland
08 Nov 2025
Fresh Air
Patti Smith’s ‘Horses’ Turns 50
07 Nov 2025
Fresh Air
Trump's Options To Subvert The 2026 Midterms
06 Nov 2025
Fresh Air