Anastacia, a renowned singer, recently shared the emotional backstory of her hit song “Left Outside Alone.” Born into a family of musicians, Anastacia Newkirk, daughter of singer Robert Newkirk and Broadway star Diane Hurley, experienced parental separation at a young age when her father left and lost touch with her.
This personal turmoil influenced the creation of her hit song “Left Outside Alone,” which reached Number 3 on the Official UK Charts in 2004 and earned Platinum certification. The track, deeply autobiographical and reflective of her struggles, almost took a different direction during a challenging time in Anastacia’s life. Diagnosed with breast cancer at 34 after a routine mammogram in 2003, she was undergoing radiation treatment while working on the song.
Anastacia revealed that her battle with cancer fueled her determination to continue creating music despite her health struggles. The song’s poignant lyrics, particularly the opera-style opening, symbolize her emotional journey, including her complex relationship with her absent father. Despite facing resistance from her record label, Anastacia insisted on retaining the vulnerable elements of the song.
Beyond her music career, Anastacia’s resilience in overcoming breast cancer twice has led her to advocate for cancer awareness and support. She was honored with the Humanitarian Award at the 2013 GQ Men of the Year Awards for her philanthropic efforts, including establishing the Anastacia Fund to raise awareness among young women.
Looking ahead, Anastacia is gearing up for her #NTK 2026 tour, which will take her to various cities in the UK and Ireland. Despite her enduring success in the music industry since her breakthrough with “I’m Outta Love” in 2000, Anastacia remains inspired by legendary artists like Barbra Streisand, Cher, and Madonna. Reflecting on their resilience and artistry, she finds motivation to continue her own musical journey.
As she celebrates the 25th anniversary of her debut album, Anastacia remains focused on connecting with her audience through her timeless music and empowering message. Her upcoming tour promises to deliver a nostalgic experience for fans, showcasing her enduring passion for performance and commitment to her craft.