When a rock artist and an NHS choir collide, the result is more than just a musical collaboration—it’s a cultural moment that begs us to pause and reflect. Sam Scherdel, a Sheffield-based indie artist, recently invited the Hull NHS Choir to record a choral version of his TikTok hit Somewhere in the Middle. On the surface, it’s a feel-good story about a song going viral and bringing people together. But if you take a step back and think about it, this partnership reveals something deeper about the power of music, community, and the unexpected ways art can heal.
The Viral Spark: When TikTok Meets Talent
What makes this particularly fascinating is how the collaboration came to be. The choir, known for their performance at the King’s Coronation concert, stumbled upon Scherdel’s song during a live show. Choir leader Lucy Vere was so moved by the track that she introduced it to the group, and they created their own arrangement. A clip of their performance went viral on TikTok, catching Scherdel’s attention. Personally, I think this highlights the democratizing force of social media—how a platform like TikTok can bridge the gap between artists and fans, turning passive listeners into active creators.
But what many people don’t realize is that this isn’t just about a song going viral. It’s about the intentionality behind the choir’s work. The Hull NHS Choir exists to support healthcare workers, offering them a space to unwind and reconnect through music. Their decision to tag Scherdel on social media wasn’t just a shoutout—it was an act of appreciation for a song that resonated with their mission. When Scherdel responded, it wasn’t just a celebrity acknowledging fans; it was an artist recognizing the transformative power of his work in a completely new context.
Music as a Bridge: Beyond the Notes
One thing that immediately stands out is how this collaboration transcends the typical artist-fan dynamic. Scherdel’s willingness to step into the studio with the choir and perform live with them at The Social in Hull speaks volumes about his humility and respect for their craft. In my opinion, this is a rare moment in the music industry, where egos often overshadow authenticity.
What this really suggests is that music, at its core, is about connection. The choral arrangement of Somewhere in the Middle isn’t just a reinterpretation—it’s a reimagining of what the song can mean to different people. Scherdel’s original track, with its two million TikTok views and Love Island feature, was already a hit. But the choir’s version adds a layer of emotional depth, turning it into something communal and healing.
The Bigger Picture: Art, Charity, and Humanity
A detail that I find especially interesting is the decision to release the track on Bandcamp, with all proceeds going to hospital charities. This isn’t just a PR move—it’s a statement about the role of art in society. Music, when used thoughtfully, can be a force for good, amplifying voices and supporting causes that matter.
From my perspective, this collaboration is a reminder of how art can serve as a mirror to our shared humanity. The NHS choir, made up of healthcare workers, embodies resilience and compassion. Scherdel, an indie artist with a viral hit, represents creativity and vulnerability. Together, they’ve created something that’s greater than the sum of its parts—a testament to what happens when people come together with a shared purpose.
Looking Ahead: The Ripple Effect
If you ask me, this story is just the beginning. The success of Somewhere in the Middle and its choral reimagining could inspire more artists to engage with grassroots communities, blurring the lines between professional and amateur, viral and meaningful. What this really suggests is that the future of music might not be about who has the biggest platform, but about who can create the deepest connections.
As we watch this collaboration unfold, I can’t help but wonder: What other unexpected partnerships are waiting to happen? How many more songs are out there, ready to be transformed into something that heals, unites, and inspires? This raises a deeper question: In a world often divided by differences, can music be the common language that brings us back together?
Final Thoughts: The Power of a Simple Song
In the end, what’s most striking about this story isn’t the viral numbers or the celebrity involvement—it’s the humanity at its core. A song written by one person, reimagined by many, and now being used to support those who give so much to society. Personally, I think this is what art should strive for: to be more than entertainment, to be a catalyst for change, connection, and compassion.
So, the next time you hear Somewhere in the Middle, whether it’s Scherdel’s original or the choir’s version, remember this: Music isn’t just about the notes. It’s about the people behind them, the stories they tell, and the hearts they touch. And in that sense, this collaboration isn’t just a song—it’s a movement.
