Stand By Me
by Lil Durk (featuring Morgan Wallen)

Album: Almost Healed (2023)
Charted: 22
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Songfacts®:

  • Here, Lil Durk and country star Morgan Wallen unite to contemplate the need for unwavering support when the world turns its back on them.
  • The song kicks off with a chorus where Wallen questions whether someone would stand by him even in the face of losing everything. Wallen yearns for loyalty and solidarity, especially during challenging times.

    In February 2021, Wallen faced controversy when he was captured on camera using a racial slur directed jokingly at one of his white buddies. His record label suspended him, and several radio stations dropped his music, but amid the backlash, some supporters, including Lil Durk, rallied to Wallen's defense.

    Durk took to Twitter, acknowledging that Wallen had been intoxicated and had expressed remorse for his actions. He further emphasized his belief in Wallen's inherent goodness, asserting that everyone can make mistakes.

    One interpretation of the chorus is that it refers to Durk's public support for Wallen, how the rapper stood by him during a difficult time.
  • In his verse, Durk reflects on the challenges of relationships and is thankful for his boo's forgiveness after he cheated on her. Her forgiveness means a lot to Durk; it shows she is willing to work through challenges with him instead of giving up.

    Morgan Wallen then takes the stage, addressing his own romantic partner. He asks whether she would remain by his side "if everything falls apart and I'm forced to leave town for good." If she can't provide the steadfast support he seeks in such trying times, he'll let her walk away.
  • Durk and Wallen previously collaborated on a 2021 single, "Broadway Girls," which reached #14 on the Hot 100.
  • Morgan Wallen, Lil Durk and Dr. Luke wrote the song with Ernest, Jacob Durrett, Charlie Handsome, Ryan OG, LunchMoney Lewis and Rocco Did It Again!.

    Ernest, Jacob Durrett and Charlie Handsome all contributed to multiple tracks on Wallens's 2023 One Thing At A Time album.

    Ryan OG and Rocco Did It Again both frequently team up with Dr. Luke. Other songs where one or both have collaborated with the producer include Saweetie's "Best Friend," Tyga's "Freaky Deaky," and Coi Leray's "Blick Blick."

    Florida singer-songwriter Lunchmoney Lewis' also often works with Dr Luke. Their other credits together include Pusha T and Jeremih's "Paid" and Nicki Minaj's "Super Freaky Girl."

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