Anastacia, a renowned voice in the music industry, recently shared the poignant backstory of her popular song, “Left Outside Alone.” Born into a family deeply rooted in music, Anastacia Newkirk, daughter of singer and actress Robert Newkirk and Broadway star Diane Hurley, faced a tumultuous childhood when her parents split when she was only three years old. Despite attempts at reconciliation from her father, she remained estranged from him until his passing in 2005, a theme that resonates in her hit track.
Released in 2004, “Left Outside Alone” peaked at Number 3 on the Official UK Charts and achieved Platinum status. The song delves into Anastacia’s personal struggles growing up, with a twist of fate during its creation. At the age of 34, after a routine mammogram in January 2003 revealed her battle with breast cancer, Anastacia was undergoing radiation therapy. Despite her health challenges, she was determined to continue her music career, leading to the creation of the emotionally charged track.
Anastacia reflected on the songwriting process, revealing that she drew inspiration from her father figure and the feelings of abandonment and longing for protection. The song’s poignant lyrics and powerful opera-style opening captured the emotional depth of her experience. Despite facing resistance from her record label, Anastacia insisted on preserving the vulnerability and fragility of the song, turning it into a masterpiece.
Throughout her career, Anastacia has shown resilience and strength, having battled breast cancer twice. Her advocacy for cancer awareness earned her the Humanitarian Award at the 2013 GQ Men of the Year Awards. She remains dedicated to supporting others facing similar challenges, emphasizing the importance of finding positivity during difficult times.
Anastacia draws inspiration from legendary artists such as Barbara Streisand, Cher, and Madonna, admiring their resilience and enduring impact on the music industry. Looking ahead, Anastacia is gearing up for her #NTK2026 tour, set to kick off next year with performances across the United Kingdom and Ireland. Despite her immense success, Anastacia remains humble and focused on connecting with her audience through her music.