Rita Ora hit the stage in Osaka, Japan, for what appeared to be a typical performance. But what happened was far from routine.
Ora, famed for her powerful voice and dominating stage presence, struggled to finish a particular song.
During her performance, something extremely personal and emotional surfaced, leading the artist to pause and fight back tears.
The audience saw Ora perform “”For You,”” a song from the “Fifty Shades Freed” album, without realizing the burden she was carrying.
The song, which was released in 2018, was recorded with former One Direction member Liam Payne.
That night, however, the song held a much deeper meaning for Ora. Midway through her performance, a photo of her and Payne appeared on the screen behind her, reminding the audience of their strong connection and shared musical past.
As her emotions took over, Ora turned to the audience and confessed, “I can’t even sing this right now.” She briefly buried her head in her hands, apparently startled by the situation.
Despite her distress, the 33-year-old singer persevered with the support of the audience, which sang alongside her. Later, Ora used social media to vent her sadness.
“I’m devastated. He had the kindest soul, I will never forget,” she wrote. “I loved working with him so much – he was just such a joy to be around on and off stage.”
She went on to say, “This tragic news breaks my heart. I’m sending all my love and prayers to his family and loved ones. Our song “For You” takes on a whole new meaning for me now. R.I.P.”
The audience members were unaware of the dreadful news that had only just emerged. The concert, which began as an homage to a close friend, was far more meaningful than anyone had expected.
Liam Payne, a beloved One Direction performer, died tragically just hours before Ora’s performance. Payne, 31, fell from a third-floor balcony of a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Authorities were informed of Payne’s behavior, which had apparently turned hostile, possibly due to substance use. Payne died at the scene after suffering serious injuries as a result of the accident.
An autopsy later revealed that his death was caused by internal and external hemorrhaging from the fall.
The devastating news sent shockwaves throughout the music industry, with tributes pouring in from both artists and fans.
Dermot O’Leary, the host of “The X Factor,” knew Payne as a little lad who auditioned at the age of 14. “He was always a joy, had time for everyone, polite, grateful, and was always humble,” O’Leary shared.
Fellow performers, including Charlie Puth, Olly Murs, and even the Backstreet Boys, shared their condolences and sent sincere thoughts to the Payne family.
Fans are mourning the loss of Liam Payne, a brilliant talent who died way too soon.
While Ora’s heartfelt homage in Japan revealed her close relationship with Payne, it also served as a devastating reminder of the fragility of life and the grief of losing someone so dear.
Featured Image Credit: (Instagram/@liampayne)
