In a "musical message of worldwide solidarity with the people of Iran," Bon Jovi, Iranian singer Andy Madadian, superstar producers Don Was and John Shanks have re-recorded the Ben E. King classic "Stand By Me."
Katie Hasty
<p>In a "musical message of worldwide solidarity with the people of Iran," Bon Jovi, Iranian singer Andy Madadian, superstar producers Don Was and John Shanks have re-recorded the Ben E. King classic "Stand By Me."</p>
<p>The song was recorded last Wednesday (June 24) and started making the round on the internet this weekend.</p>
<p>"This version of the old Ben E. King classic is not for sale - it was not meant to be on the Billboard charts or even manufactured as a CD.....it's intended to be downloaded and shared by the Iranian people...to give voice to the sentiment that all people of the world stand together," reads a message on the YouTube video.</p>
<p>We love that Jon Bon sings part of the track in Farsi. What we're a little lost on is audience.</p>
<p>As most everybody knows, Iran has gone through a very troublesome post-election crisis, with nationwide protests calling for reform of how elected officials are selected and how the state is run. Is this a track for solidarity for all peoples in Iran? If so, I have my doubts one of the most popular Western singers is going to help bring everybody together just by rehashing a Western hit, even if it's co-sung by one of Iran's biggest stars. If it's a call for solidarity amongst protesters... well, let's hope this isn't a video the government there will block.</p>
<p>What do you think this means for Iran?</p>
<p>
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music
2009-06-29T18:53:32Z
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Collaboration with Don Was, John Shanks and Andy Madadian making the rounds on the internet
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2009-6-29-watch-bon-jovi-s-take-on-stand-by-me
2009-06-29T14:42:00Z
Watch: Bon Jovi's take on 'Stand By Me'
published
Eastern Time (US & Canada)
http://tinyurl.com/lxvaky
Watch: Bon Jovi's take on 'Stand By Me'
2009-09-01T03:49:08Z
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