Los Angeles, CA – Beyoncé opened up the public memorial service for Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna with an emotional performance at the Staples Center in Los Angeles on Monday (February 24).
The multi-platinum selling singer began with her 2013 song “XO,” noting it was one of Bryant’s favorites.
“I’m here because I love Kobe,” she told the crowd. “And this was one of his favorite songs. So, I wanna start that over but I want us to do it all together. And I want you to sing it so loud that he hears the love.”
After performing “XO,” Beyoncé’s set transitioned to her track “Halo” from the 2008 album I Am… Sasha Fierce. She capped off her time on stage by blowing a kiss to the sky.
💜💛 @Beyonce pays
tribute to Kobe and Gigi Bryant with a couple of his favorite songs
pic.twitter.com/HIfTfWmtlS— The Association on FOX (@TheAssociation)
February 24, 2020
In addition to Beyoncé’s performance, A Celebration of Life for Kobe and Gianna Bryant featured speeches from members of the basketball community such as Oregon Ducks player Sabrina Ionescu and longtime UConn coach Geno Auriemma.
Bryant’s widow Vanessa also took the stage to speak about her late husband and daughter.
Watch the livestream of the memorial service below.