Fans thought that Justin Bieber would be taking a break after he announced that he would be canceling all of the dates on his world tour. But he surprised everyone when he made an appearance with friend and colleague Don Toliver at the Rolling Loud Festival last Saturday.
In 2022, Bieber was diagnosed with Ramsay Hunt syndrome, a condition which causes partial paralysis of the face. He played his last concert at Rock in Rio last September before indefinitely postponing all shows afterward.
Later, the shows were quietly removed from his website as ticketholders received emails instructing them on how to get refunds.
“We regret to inform you that the Justin Bieber shows planned to take place at the O2 arena have been canceled. We understand you will be disappointed and apologize for any inconvenience,” read an email send from AXS to London concert-goers regarding the cancellation.
While Bieber did not comment on his current condition, he issued a statement earlier in the year when he postponed the shows.
“Earlier this year, I went public about my battle with Ramsay Hunt syndrome, where my face was partly paralyzed. As a result of this illness, I was not able to complete the North America leg of the Justice Tour.
“After getting off stage, the exhaustion overtook me and I realized that I need to make my health a priority right now. So I’m going to take a break from touring for the time being. I’m going to be ok, but I need time to rest and get better,” the singer stated.
Despite postponing the North American dates, he still traveled to Europe to perform six shows as well as a set at Rock in Rio before deciding the strain was too much for his body.
Now, after canceling the dates, he surprised everyone by joining his friend and collaborator Don Toliver on stage to sing their new song, “Private Landing” from Toliver’s new album, “Love Sick”.
Beiber came out wearing a backward hat and a tweed jacket from his fashion line, Drew House. He gave an energetic performance before walking off stage.
Tolver posted a video of the performance on Instagram encouraging his friend to, “Keep Going!!!! Keep going!!!! Let’s Go Justin…Rolling Loud LA 2023.
Fans weighed in with comments praising Beiber for his bravery and willingness to show up.
“Best feature and moment on the album,” one fan wrote.
“ON STAGE WITH MR. BIEBERRR, HEAT IT UP MICROWAVE,” another chimed in.
Bieber has made a few brief appearances since his diagnosis. He performed at Takeoff’s memorial service and joined The Kid LAROI on stage to perform an acoustic version of their song, “Stay”.