Even among the world’s timeless and universally beloved songs, Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me” stands out. With its instantly recognizable bassline, laid-back vibe and sweet lyrics, the ballad has inspired a wide range of artists to make it their own, from John Lennon to Tina Turner to Miley Cyrus. Even boxing great Muhammad Ali recorded his own version of it.
But one “Stand By Me” cover from an unexpected source is currently making waves online, and it’s right up there with the best of them. The musical sibling trio Biko’s Manna from Johannesburg, South Africa, is made up of 16-year-old Biko Nhlangothi (also known as BikoStar), 13-year-old Manna Nhlangothi (also known as MannaHero) and 8-year-old Mfundo Nhlangothi (also known as TauLion).
A TikTok of the kids playing the guitar and singing the classic tune has more than 22 million views, and the same video on Facebook has more than 7.9 million views. When you hear Biko open her mouth and sing, it’s easy to see why it’s gone viral.
When Manna adds in his harmony, the casual living room performance goes to the next level. Add when you add in little Mfundo with his body percussion, and it’s clear why news outlets are saying Biko’s Manna is ready to “take the world by storm.”
Watch:
@bikosmanna š«¶š¾š«¶š¾ Stand by me Song by Ben E. King Covered by BikosManna #TauLionš¦ #BikoStar #MannaHero #TauLionš¦ #BikosManna #BKMN
The sister and brothers come from a family of musicians and performers, and their mom, singer and actress Ayanda Nhlangothi (40), serves as their manager.
Biko told News 24 that music is in her blood and that she is inspired by singer and songwriter India Arie. After she started learning guitar, Manna decided he wanted to as well and they’ve been performing ever since. Mfundo, who dances and plays piano, started playing along with his older siblings and would shout out his name when they were introduced as “Biko’s Manna.”
It’s clear they enjoy making music together, and people sure enjoy listening to them. Here’s the group performing another sweet ballad, Ed Sheeran’s “Thinking Out Loud.”
@bikosmanna Wow! #MannaHero Thinking Out Loud Song by Ed Sheeran Covered by BikoāsManna #TauLionš¦ #BikoStar #MannaHero #TauLion #BikosManna #BKMN
Absolutely gorgeous. This trio is definitely going places, and you can more of BIko’s Manna on Facebook, TikTok, Instagram and YouTube.