ALICIA Keys offered a heartwarming tribute to Kobe Bryant at the 2020 Grammys.
The NBA legend died earlier today at age 41 in a tragic helicopter crash alongside his daughter Gianna, 13, and seven other passengers.
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Alicia, 39, took the stage at the Staples Center, where Kobe played home games for the Los Angeles Lakers during his 20-year career, to pay respect to the late NBA star.
She said: “To be honest with you, we’re all feeling crazy sadness right now because earlier today Los Angeles, America and the whole wide world lost a hero.
“We’re literally standing here heartbroken in the house that Kobe Bryant built.”
She ended the monologue with: “Right now, Kobe and his daughter Gianna and all of those who have been tragically lost today are in our hearts.”
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Boyz II Men then joined Alicia on stage to sing their song “It’s So Hard To Say Goodbye to Yesterday.”
Ryan Seacrest also paid tribute to the late NBA icon by opening up the Grammys red carpet with a tribute.
He said: “We are starting the show on a very somber note. We want to take a moment to say we are deeply saddened by the passing of Kobe Bryant, his daughter Gianna, and the others aboard the helicopter which tragically crashed today in Calabasas, California.
“Kobe was 41 years old and was one of the greatest basketball players and greatest athletes to ever live. His loss will be felt even more deeply tonight at a place he considered home.”
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Lizzo opened the show with song “Cuz I love you.”
She said: “This one’s for Kobe.”
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Kobe’s helicopter crashed around 10am in Calabasas while he, daughter Gianna and seven other passengers were on their way to his Mamba Academy for basketball practice.
Foggy weather conditions are reportedly the cause of the crash.
