Justin Bieber Performs Moving Tribute to Pulse Victims, Christina Grimmie At Orlando Concert


Justin Bieber’s sensitivity gets overlooked in the media narrative. But, the 17-000-strong fans at Orlando, Florida’s Amway Center saw and felt it on Thursday night, when the pop superstar performed a moving tribute to the Pulse nightclub shooting victims and The Voice singer, Christina Grimmie, during his Purpose World Tour concert.

The June 12 nightclub terror attack has been called the worst mass shooting in U.S. history. It took place in a gay club and particularly affected the LGBTQ and Latino communities. Grimmie was shot by a deranged “fan” the day before during a meet-and-greet after her Orlando show.

The Canadian’s tribute happened near the end of his show when he sang the title track of his Purpose album. As is now tradition, the 22-year-old sat on the stage to perform. This allowed him to hold the hands of fans standing in the pit area.

While Bieber sang, the 49 Pulse victims’ names and Christina’s name were shown on a giant screen behind him in a poignant and beautiful roll call.

During his rendition, Justin stood up on the stage and walked toward the screen, where he continued to sing while facing the names. After Christina’s rolled last, the message “#OrlandoStrong” appeared and stayed on the screen.

After his concert, the Grammy winner shared a photo of the show’s backdrop on Twitter. He added, “Thank you for tonight. Don’t ever be afraid to be yourself. #OrlandoStrong.”

Take a look at the Biebs’ touching tribute below.

Justin also referenced the Pulse massacre earlier in his show before performing another Purpose cut, “Children.”

Addressing the mostly teen, female audience, fan accounts quoted the pop icon as saying, “You guys have been in my heart, I’ve just been thinking of the families and really feeling for them… we have to continue to be strong.”

He added, “You’ve been through a lot here. So much love goes out to all the families, so much love. But let’s also… let’s just celebrate. They can’t take down Orlando.”

Hours after the Pulse shootings, Bieber took to his Facebook account to repost and also endorse an essay written by his manager, Scooter Braun, which called for stronger gun control laws in the wake of the massacre.

Four days later, he responded to questions about his then upcoming Orlando concert, by tweeting, “For all those asking no I won’t cancel the Orlando show. I stand with Orlando in support. Love you Orlando!” #OrlandoStrong.”

Justin also shared a message on Instagram (see below) a week ago asking his fans to pray for the families of the Orlando shooting victims.

Next, the Purpose World Tour hits Miami for two shows. Since his Orlando tribute, a flood of Justin Bieber fans — and, non-fans — have shared their views on it online. A selection follows.

[Images via Twitter]

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