The Original Version Of “Next To Me” Recorded With Only Acoustic Guitar And Wine

April 1, 2025

In a small, dimly lit room filled with the comforting scent of aged wood and faint whiffs of wine, a young artist named Emeli Sandé sat alone with her acoustic guitar. It was one of those rainy nights when the world outside felt distant, and Emeli was lost in her thoughts. The soft strumming of her guitar created an intimate atmosphere, and as she poured herself a glass of red wine, she felt the weight of her dreams pressing heavily on her heart. She yearned to express her feelings through music, but doubts often clouded her mind, whispering that she might never be heard.

That evening, Emeli decided to pour her soul into a song that had been nagging at her for weeks. She wanted to write something that captured the essence of loyalty and love—the kind of bond that stands strong no matter the distance or challenges. The simple chords flowed from her fingers effortlessly, and soon the words began to take shape. “Just know that I’ll be next to you,” she sang softly, feeling the power of the message weave its way into the melody. With every strum, she envisioned a future where her music could touch hearts and bring comfort to those who listened.

As she recorded the original version of “Next to Me,” it felt like an intimate conversation between her and the universe. The acoustic guitar felt like an extension of her voice, and the wine helped to calm her nerves, allowing her true emotions to shine through. It was raw, unpolished, but filled with an authenticity that would resonate deeply with anyone who heard it. In that moment, she realized the magic of music wasn’t about grand studios and vast audiences; it was about the soul behind the lyrics and chords.

When she shared that recording with her friends, the response was overwhelming. They encouraged her to take her music further, sparking a fire within Emeli that had long been smoldering. She began performing at local venues, carrying that same acoustic spirit with her, and slowly, her fanbase started to grow. People connected with the simple, heartfelt nature of her song, and it wasn’t long before “Next to Me” became a cornerstone of her career, leading to a record deal that would take her music around the world.

Reflecting on that rainy night with just a guitar and a glass of wine, Emeli often speaks about the importance of perseverance. She faced countless challenges along her journey, from self-doubt to industry rejection, but she always returned to that moment of inspiration. It was her resilience and passion for music that turned a quiet night into a powerful anthem of love and devotion. Emeli Sandé’s story reminds us all that sometimes, the most impactful moments come from the simplest beginnings, and that staying true to oneself can lead to extraordinary outcomes.

Today, Emeli’s music continues to uplift and inspire people everywhere. “Next to Me” became more than just a song; it became a celebration of loyalty and the unbreakable bonds that tie us together. Her journey from that small room filled with wine and hesitation to stages around the globe stands as a testament to the power of art and the strength found in vulnerability.