Louis Tomlinson performs onstage during 106.1 KISS FM's Jingle Ball 2015 presented by Capital One at American Airlines Center on December 1, 2015 in Dallas, Texas. (Photo : Getty Images/Kevin Winter)
Despite the recent death of Louis Tomlinson's mother, the singer still gave a powerful performance during "The X-Factor UK" finals to debut his single "Just Hold On." The event also marked the first time that One Direction band members gathered together after a year.
The release of Tomlinson's song "Just Hold On" during "The X-Factor UK" finals held Dec. 10, Saturday, was meant to be a memorable moment to bring his career full circle after being discovered in the said singing competition. A collaborative piece with Steve Aoki, the song featured an upbeat tempo and lively beat.
However, with the recent passing of Tomlinson's mother, the One Direction band member had to struggle with his emotions after the performance, according to TV Guide. "The X-Factor UK" judge Simon Cowell even praised the singer for his bravery and stated how Tomlinson have made his mother proud with his achievements.
With the One Direction singer trying to hold back tears, Tomlinson conveyed his gratitude and displayed his love for his deceased mother. In a touching tribute, the musician lifted his fingers to his lips and extended his arm upwards to send a flying kiss to his mother in heaven.
Tomlinson also admitted that he had a difficult time performing on stage just days after his mother's death. In a Twitter message posted on Dec. 11, Sunday, he wrote that the live performance was harder than he thought it would be.
That was harder than I ever imagined. I want to thank everyone around me and all of the amazing fans out there that made that so special!
— Louis Tomlinson (@Louis_Tomlinson) December 11, 2016
Meanwhile, Tomlinson's "The X-Factor UK" performance was also witnessed by his fellow One Direction band members. A source told Daily Mail that Niall Horan, Tom Payne and Harry Styles stayed backstage to show their support for the singer.
The impromptu meeting marked the first time that One Direction band members reunited after one year. The source stated, "Harry, Niall and Liam all came down to X factor to support Louis ... It was a lovely moment - and shows the unity of 1D."
Tomlinson's mother Johannah Deakin died on Dec. 7, Wednesday, after battling leukemia. Watch the One Direction singer's "The X-Factor UK" performance below:
