Emeli Sande, London Olympics: Singer Makes Surprise Appearance at Opening Ceremony

Before the first gold medal was given out, Emeli Sande emerged as one of the early winners of the 2012 London Olympics. The rising Scottish singer made a surprise appearance at last night's (July 27) opening ceremony, where she performed the hymn "Abide With Me" for a massive global audience, Scotsman.com reports.

The 25-year-old songstress and recent AOL Music Sessions guest sang after a video sequence paid tribute to spectators' deceased loved ones, among them the late father of director Danny Boyle, who organized the elaborate event and hand-picked Sande to be the only female vocalist.

"I am extremely proud and humbled to be part of the amazing ceremony which will allow the world to see some of the best up-and-coming and established talent the UK has produced," Sande said of the event.

She later took to Twitter to share her excitement with fans.

"I will never ever forget tonight, thank you so much to Danny Boyle and all his team for this incredible experience," she tweeted.