Pop star Ariana Grande took the stage in Manchester Sunday night in England, less than 24 hours after a deadly terror attack in London — and less than two weeks after an explosion ripped through the concert venue where she performed, killing 22 fans and injuring more than 100 people.
[lz_third_party align=center width=630 includes=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9yak899MUs]
Donning ripped jeans and a white “One Love Manchester” sweatshirt, the singer started off upbeat, as much of the young crowd appeared both excited and overwhelmed, declaring her love for the still-mourning city.
Partway through the concert, Grande thanked the crowd for their “love and unity,” noting that it is “the medicine the world needs right now.” She also acknowledged that they had an entirely different show planned but changed much of it the previous day after her meeting with the mother of slain 15-year-old victim Olivia Campbell.
Related: Read Ariana Grande’s Statement on the Manchester Attack
“She told me Olivia wouldn’t want me to cry,” Grande said. “And she would have wanted to hear the hits.”
Grande was joined by the Black Eyed Peas, performing their 2003 hit “Where Is the Love?” which directly addressed the burgeoning threat of terrorism in its lyrics, and advocated a message of “one love.” Some 14 years later, frontman will.i.am urged the packed crowd to raise a hand in solidarity.
Longtime friends Grande and Miley Cyrus also performed the Crowded House hit “Don’t Dream It’s Over,” and Katy Perry — following an address insisting that “love conquers hate” — sang “Part of Me.”
[lz_ndn video=32505589]
But it wasn’t just to be Grande paying her respects to the city. The “One Love Manchester” benefit — with additional security measures following the latest attacks — was also set to feature performances from Justin Bieber, Katy Perry, Coldplay, Miley Cyrus, Take That, Pharrell Williams, Black Eyed Peas, Niall Horan, and Robbie Williams.
The show also featured heartfelt messages from Stevie Wonder and former soccer star David Beckham, British girlband Little Mix, Mac Miller, and a duet with Victoria Monet and Grande performing “Better Days.”
Survivors also were slated to take the stage alongside Grande during the show at the Emirates Old Trafford cricket ground.
Following Saturday night’s terrorist assault on London Bridge, Grande tweeted that she was “praying for London.” Earlier on Sunday, her manager, Scooter Braun, released a statement declaring, “After the events last night in London, and those in Manchester just two weeks ago, we feel a sense of responsibility to honor those lost, injured and affected.”
[lz_ndn video=32506678]
“We plan to honor them with courage, bravery and defiance in the face of fear. Today’s One Love Manchester benefit concert will not only continue, but will do so with greater purpose,” he continued. “We must not be afraid and in tribute to all those affected here and around the world, we will bring our voices together and sing loudly.”
Braun went on to say that they had the “full support” of the Greater Manchester Police and the government, and were assured the safety of all those attending was the highest priority.
Related: Celebs Share Reaction to Attack at Ariana Grande Concert
“All artists involved have been unwavering in their support this morning and are determined to carry on with the show. We ask the strong city of Manchester and the world to join us in making the statement that hatred and fear will never win,” he added. “Today we stand together. Thank you.”
More than 50 countries worldwide signed up to air the show live, with BBC Worldwide affirming Sunday that those plans remained. All net ticket proceeds from the concert will benefit the “We Love Manchester Emergency Fund,” created by the Manchester City Council and the British Red Cross.
This Fox News article is used with permission.
Read more at Fox News:
‘Wonder Woman’ Conquers Milestone with $100.5 Million Debut
Late in Life, Sex Assault Trial Caps Cosby’s Life and Legacy
Alec Baldwin Defends Kathy Griffin After Donald Trump Photo Controversy
Join the Discussion
Comments are currently closed.