Rising country-rock star Stephen Wilson Jr. has breathed new life into the iconic Ben E. King classic ‘Stand By Me' with a gripping reinterpretation that has captured the hearts of millions. Originally released as a live performance for the Live At The Print Shop series, the video has gone viral, amassing over 1 million views on YouTube and 18 million+ views across social media platforms.
🎵 Listen to “Stand By Me” (Live At The Print Shop)
🎥 Watch the Live Performance of “Stand By Me”
A Song Close to the Heart
“‘Stand By Me’ was the song that brought my dad back, if only for a few,” shared Wilson Jr. “It’s the song that started this journey and made it all clear what I was supposed to be doing with my time from that moment on.”
This poignant connection adds depth to Wilson Jr.’s soulful rendition, making it not just a cover but a deeply personal tribute to enduring love and the power of music to heal.
A Meteoric Rise in 2024
The release follows a remarkable year for Wilson Jr., whose viral hit ‘Cuckoo' and standout performances on national television have solidified his status as a rising force in the music scene. Highlights include:
- Late Night with Seth Meyers: A raucous performance of “Cuckoo.”
- The Late Show with Stephen Colbert's #LateShowMeMusic series and Later… with Jools Holland: Performances of ‘Year To Be Young 1994.'
- CBS Saturday Morning: A three-song set and his first major TV interview with CBS News' Jeff Glor.
Accolades for ‘søn of dad'
Wilson Jr.’s debut double album ‘søn of dad' continues to earn critical acclaim:
- Rolling Stone: “The most existential release of the year…a master craftsman versed in all manners of pop music.”
- The Tennessean: “The next iconoclastic leader of country’s rock revival.”
- Billboard: “Nuanced storytelling…an extremely promising debut.”
- Nashville Scene: “A declaration of creative independence — intriguing and insightful at all levels.”
The album also features a duet version of ‘Father’s Søn' with HARDY, released in September to mark the album’s one-year anniversary.
Touring Highlights
Wilson Jr. is currently headlining a fall tour with stops in major cities like Boston, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C. His søn of dad tour continues into 2025, with new dates added across the U.S. and Canada.
Upcoming Tour Dates
2024
- Nov 22: Atlanta, Ga. – Buckhead Theater
- Dec 4: Nashville, Tenn. – Brooklyn Bowl
- Dec 14: Washington D.C. – Sixth & I
2025
- Feb 22: Pittsburgh, Pa. – Thunderbird Café & Music Hall
- Mar 13: Detroit, Mich. – Saint Andrew's Hall
- Apr 10: Carrboro, N.C. – Cat's Cradle
Connect with Stephen Wilson Jr.
Stay updated on Stephen Wilson Jr.’s music, tour dates, and more:
Website | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | YouTube
Wilson Jr.'s electrifying take on ‘Stand By Me' is a testament to his artistry and emotional depth, proving why he’s one of the most exciting voices in music today. Don’t miss this rising star on tour or in his stunning reinterpretations of timeless classics.
