Review: M.D. Chau’s Powerful ‘Stand Next to Me’

Review originally appeared on July 2, 2022 on StaticDive.

M.D. Chau is a singer, songwriter and producer launching a new phase of his musical career in 2022. Throughout the mid 2000s, he recorded and performed under his given name Minh. In that time he released a string of successful albums and singles. He rubbed shoulders with heavyweights, sharing the stage with legends like Erykah Badu, The Isley Brothers, and Maze featuring Frankie Beverly.

In recent years M.D. Chau has redirected his energies toward entrepreneurial pursuits. Although now a businessman and no longer seeking the limelight, he is still an artist at heart. Moved to action by the headlines of our troubled times, he recently headed back to the studio. “Stand Next to Me” is the new single from M.D. Chau, available worldwide via all major streaming services. 

The track opens with the singer alone at his piano. He leans into the mic and delivers a humble plea for understanding and unity in a soft and soulful pop tenor. An ensemble of guitar, bass, drums and gospel vocals gradually enters the mix as the song builds from its initial solo meditation to powerful adult contemporary pop ballad.