In a heartfelt tribute to their late bandmate, Girls Aloud is set to release a new version of their iconic single I’ll Stand By You. This rendition, featuring the isolated vocals of Sarah Harding, marks a poignant moment for the band and their fans as they commemorate Harding’s legacy while supporting a charitable cause.
Originally recorded for the 2004 Children In Need campaign, I’ll Stand By You quickly became a chart-topping success in the UK, remaining at number one for two weeks. The re-release coincides with the song’s 20th anniversary and aims to raise funds for the charity that supports disadvantaged children across the UK.
Nadine Coyle reflected on this initiative, emphasizing that it serves as both a celebration of Sarah’s life and Girls Aloud’s long-standing connection with Children In Need.
The band expressed their sentiments, stating that performing this song during their recent tour was an emotional highpoint. They fondly recalled moments when they harmonized with Sarah’s recorded voice while holding hands on stage, creating an intimate atmosphere for both themselves and their audience.
Harding tragically passed away from breast cancer complications in September 2021 at the age of 39. Earlier this year, her isolated vocal track was discovered while the band was curating archival material for their sold-out arena tour. This discovery led to an emotional performance that resonated deeply with fans.
The new version of I’ll Stand By You - Sarah’s Version premiered on Zoe Ball’s BBC Radio 2 breakfast show. Coyle described it as “really special,” highlighting Harding’s unique vocal strength that conveys themes of friendship and solidarity.
In addition to the single release on November 15, a revamped music video featuring previously unseen footage will air during the Children In Need appeal show on BBC One. Chrissie Hynde, who originally penned the song in 1994, expressed her support for this new rendition, celebrating Harding’s contributions as a vocalist.
To honor what would have been Harding’s 43rd birthday on November 17, ITV plans to showcase highlights from Girls Aloud’s recent tour. Fans can also stream the full concert on ITVX.
As fans eagerly anticipate these releases, the legacy of Sarah Harding continues to inspire tributes from notable figures such as Oprah Winfrey and Paul McCartney. The re-release stands not only as a celebration of her talent but also as a reminder of the impact of music in fostering hope and community support.
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