'Devastated' Rita Ora breaks down in tears during Liam Payne tribute: 'I can't even sing this right now'
Rita Ora has broken down in tears during her concert in Japan following the death of friend Liam Payne.
The British singer, 33, was performing the pair's hit song For You, which appeared in the Fifty Shades soundtrack, when she she became overcome with emotion after Payne died following a three-floor balcony fall at the age of 31 on October 16.
In a fan video, Ora, 33, struggled to sing the song as she became emotional, before sitting down on stage and holding her hands to her face.
Watch the video above.
READ MORE: Liam Payne remembered for his 'compassion and kindness' by charity he supported for years
Rita Ora broke down in tears during her concert in Japan, hours after the death of Liam Payne. @nikuniku2424241 / X
READ MORE: Remaining One Direction members share joint statement on Liam Payne's shock death
"I can't even sing this right now," she says, before encouraging fans to sing.
In the background, a black and white picture of Ora and Payne can be seen.
She also shared as sweet tribute to Payne, saying she was "devastated".
"I'm devastated 💔 He had the kindest soul, I will never forget," Ora wrote in her Instagram tribute underneath a series of pictures of the pair together.
READ MORE: Richard Wilkins remembers 'gentle, beautiful soul' Liam Payne
"I can't even sing this right now," she says, before encouraging fans to sing. @nikuniku2424241 / X
"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."
"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 former One Direction star died after falling from the third floor of his hotel room in Buenos Aires, Argentina, according to state police, as reported by CNN.
His former One Direction bandmates said they are "devastated" by the news of his passing.
"In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly," they said in their statement.
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