The former Fifth Harmony member collaborated with the British singer on "Dancing with a Stranger," which they were planning to perform at the 2019 Billboard Music Awards
One day after Sam Smith‘s team announced the cancellation of his performances in Azerbaijan and at the 2019 Billboard Music Awards, his “Dancing with a Stranger” collaborator Normani — who was set to share the stage with him at the awards show — shared her regret over the situation.
“Today’s news of the performance cancellation truly disappoints me as I know it disappoints you,” Normani, 22, posted on Twitter and Instagram Stories on Thursday. “I have the most amazing and loyal fans to exist and I absolutely hate to say that I will unfortunately will not be able to move forward with performing at the 2019 Billboard Music Awards. I’m heartbroken.”
Smith cut his South African tour short last week due to vocal strain and his team revealed in a Twitter statement on Wednesday that the four-time Grammy winner’s medical specialists “are advising him to have further rest.”
And Normani understands that Smith, 26, has to prioritize his health.
“Thank you to the BBMAs for being so understanding and patient,” she continued on social media. “We are all tried incredibly hard to work through these obstacles to figure out any and every possible way to make this work so work so we could still give you all the moment we know you want and deserve. I’m so extremely grateful for all of your love and support, it truly means the world to me. I love you all and Sam very much. I am praying that he’s able to take the time that he needs. I’m with you.”
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Normani also revealed that she too has been putting extra strain on her body to prepare for the May 1 Billboard Music Awards in Las Vegas.
“I have been working harder than I ever have in rehearsals for the last week to ensure that I give you the best possible performance,” the former Fifth Harmony member wrote. “I pushed my body in ways that I hadn’t in years which I’m proud of, but unfortunately due to circumstances beyond my control, my performance at this year’s awards Is not possible.”
Smith’s team also shared their remorse on Wednesday.
“We apologize for the disappointment for those affected, but the primary focus at this time needs to be on Sam’s recovery and health,” his statement reads.
Other artists who will still perform at this time include the Jonas Brothers, Khalid, Madonna and Maluma, host Kelly Clarkson, Lauren Daigle, Mariah Carey, Halsey and BTS, Dan + Shay, Ciara and Tori Kelly
The 2019 Billboard Music Awards air live from the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas on May 1 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on NBC.