Amy Winehouse returned to the stage on Friday night, performing in London’s Hyde Park for Nelson Mandela’s 90th birthday.
It was her first public appearance and performance since last week’s hospitalization and reports from her father that the British songbird had “traces” of emphysema.
Despite her recent troubles, Winehouse was seen rehearsing for the performance on Thursday and reportedly seemed ready – if not excited – to take the stage.
“She came out in her very high heels and looked almost nervous in front of the crowd,” the BBC reported, noting that “as she sang ‘Rehab’ you couldn’t help but think she looked a bit… vacant.”
But Winehouse reportedly gained confidence as her set went on.
“She perked right up when she began belting out ‘Valerie,’” the BBC noted. “Seemingly more comfortable with her surroundings, there was more animation – arm and hand movements, sly smiles and she even teetered out onto the stage in the middle of the crowd to finish her song.”
Artists including Queen, Leona Lewis, Razorlight and Simple Minds also performed at the concert honoring the former South African President.
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