Jessie J moved Royal Variety Performance viewers to tears with a heartfelt performance dedicated to her late bodyguard and close friend, Dave. The singer, who underwent a full mastectomy in June after being diagnosed with early-stage breast cancer, performed her new song 'I'll Never Know Why' at the Royal Albert Hall in front of the Prince and Princess of Wales.
The song, from her first album in seven years 'Don't Tease Me With a Good Time', was written as a tribute to Dave, who died by suicide seven years ago. Speaking previously on This Morning, Jessie described him as 'like my big brother' and said she initially did not plan to include the track on the album but was persuaded by her team.
Viewers took to social media to praise the performance, with one writing: 'I am so proud of Jessie J, and I'm so pleased she got to perform... She has created a soundtrack to help others navigate different types of grief.' Another added: 'What a beautiful song by Jessie J.'
The performance marked Jessie's return to the stage after her cancer diagnosis and surgery. She announced her diagnosis in May, and in October revealed that her UK and European tour dates had been postponed to 2025, while the US leg was cancelled. She made her TV comeback on Strictly Come Dancing's launch show in September.
Jessie shares two-year-old son Sky with her partner, professional basketball player Chanan Colman. She said after her surgery: 'I'm good. Missing being an active Mum/human the most. But it's been nice to slow down.'
