Louis Tomlinson & Steve Aoki Debut “Just Hold On” On ‘The X Factor UK’: Watch

Christina Lee | December 11, 2016 10:07 am
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Louis Tomlinson made his solo debut last night (December 10) during The X Factor UK season finale.

As planned, despite reports stating otherwise, he and Steve Aoki performed their new collaboration “Just Hold On.” It’s uplifting EDM fare that comes standard with summer music festivals, though also a brand new direction for Louis after five One Direction albums.

But its encouraging lyrics took on added meaning once Louis’ mentor and X Factor UK judge Simon Cowell addressed him. This live premiere took place as scheduled, with Louis even being all smiles, despite his mom Johanna Deakin‘s recent death after battling leukemia, because that is what she wanted.

“I respect you as an artist, I respect you as a person,” Simon said, as Louis fought back tears. “And you know, your mum was so proud of you, Louis, and she was so looking forward to tonight. She’s watching down on you now and you’ve done her proud. Steve, you’re a great friend to Louis. Thank you so much.”

The X Factor UK finale also featured knockout duets with Adam LambertNicole Scherzinger and Clean Bandit, though the live debut of “Just Hold On” clearly had the most resonance. Watch below.

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