Ahead of her debut album release on 13th February, Emeli Sandé has already created a large portfolio of collaborations and songwriting with the likes of Chipmunk (‘Diamond Rings‘ off his debut), Professor Green (‘Read All About It’ off his new ‘At Your Convenience’) and Leona Lewis (Her 2012 album ‘Glassheart’). Though he might not be favourite music critic, she has also received acclaim from Simon Cowell who invited her to perform on the X factor to perform her duo with Professor Green.

The simple melodies off her album Our Version of Events set to intimate lyrics are emotionally involving and refer to older R&B styles. I can’t help but love piano and guitar dominated accompaniment and gospel-influenced backing vocals. More endearing is the fact Emeli’s use of REAL DRUMS.

Her live performances have been impressive. Unlike some successful recording-artists, Sandé maintains her strength and warmth, and melismas are not lost amidst breathlessness.

Signed to Virgin Records in April 2011, I am sure that she will continue to be a success throughout her releases, I just hope that she keeps the intimacy that her debut has given us.

Here is her powerful ‘Next To Me’ which will be released as a single on Monday along with her album.