Girls Aloud are about to release a new version of their hit single “I’ll Stand By You”, featuring vocals entirely by late band member Sarah Harding.
The ballad was originally released as a Children In Need song in 2004 and topped the UK charts for two weeks. The reissue of the 20th anniversary edition will once again raise funds for charity.
Singer Nadine Coyle said: “This is truly a special celebration of Sarah and Girls Aloud’s involvement with children in need over the years.”
Harding Died of complications from breast cancer in September 2021 39 years old.
Her isolated voice on “I’ll Stand By You” was rediscovered earlier this year as the band gathered archival material for their sold-out arena tour.
The song became the emotional climax of the tour, with Harding singing on screen while her bandmates led the audience in a heartfelt sing-along.
Nadine, Cheryl, Nicola Roberts and Kimberley Walsh initially spread out on the stage, slowly walking toward each other before joining hands to sing one final a cappella song with their late friend.
“This is an exciting time for all of us,” the band said in a statement announcing the release of the new single.
I’ve Got Your Back – Sarah’s Version premiered on Zoe Ball’s BBC Radio 2 breakfast show on Wednesday.
Nadine told the show the song was “very special” and paid tribute to “our wonderful Sarah”.
The new remix showcases the singer’s strengths as a vocalist – capturing the song’s message of friendship and unity with a tell-tale brutality.
A new version of the music video, featuring unseen archival footage, will also be screened on BBC One’s Children in Need on 15 November. The single will be released on the same day.
Pretenders star Chrissie Hynde, who wrote and released the original song in 1994, also endorsed the new record.
She said in a press release: “It’s wonderful to hear Sarah Harding’s lovely voice lead the way for BBC Children in Need in I’ve Got Your Back.”
Children in Need is the BBC charity for disadvantaged children and young people across the UK.
Meanwhile, ITV will be showing highlights from the recent Girls Aloud tour on November 17 to mark Harding’s 43rd birthday.
The full concert will also be broadcast live on ITVX.
