“I can’t even sing this right now,” singer says during “For You,” her 2018 duet with One Direction singer
Hours after the death of Liam Payne, Rita Ora paid tribute to the singer Wednesday at her concert in Osaka, Japan with an emotional rendition of “For You,” her 2018 duet with the One Direction member.
Near the end of the performance, Ora became overcome by emotion. “I can’t even sing this right now,” Ora told the crowd before asking them, “Can you sing this for me?” A photo of Ora and Payne then appeared on the video screen as the singer exited the stage.
Rita Ora今日ステージに立ってくれてありがとう
For You歌ってくれてありがとう大好きな曲
イントロから泣いてたけど最後にLiamとのツーショがスクリーンに写った時涙止まらなかった@RitaOra #RitaOra pic.twitter.com/7pcg55IQTX— A i (@why_not_j_) October 17, 2024
Following the release of “For You” in 2018, Ora and Payne performed the song together live dozens of times as the single reached the Top 10 throughout Europe.
Ora’s concert came just hours after Payne’s death Wednesday at the age of 31 after he fell from the third-story balcony of a Buenos Aires hotel. Ora also remembered her “For You” partner on social media.
“He had the kindest soul, I will never forget. I loved working with him so much – he was just such a joy to be around on and off stage. This tragic news breaks my heart,” she wrote.
“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.”
Charlie Puth, Paris Hilton, Liam Gallagher, Backstreet Boys, and Ty Dolla $ign were also among the stars grieving over Payne’s death.