Lola Young Was ‘Nervous as Hell’ Performing at the Grammys After Health Scare: ‘This Is Where I Belong’

Lola Young openly admitted that her comeback performance was a daunting experience. The British singer, who had just clinched her first Grammy Award for Best Pop Solo Performance with her hit "Messy," discussed her return at Spotify's Best New Artist party on Thursday. This event marked her first live appearance in four months, following a health incident last autumn that forced her to cancel shows. "I was incredibly nervous, to be completely honest," Young revealed to Variety backstage at the Grammys. "I believe in being real—artists have nerves like anyone else. But the stage is where I feel I'm meant to be."

Young had retreated from public view after collapsing during a set at New York's All Things Go festival in September. The All Things Go festival, known for its indie and pop lineup, has been a launchpad for many artists since its 2014 inception. At that time, she announced an indefinite hiatus from performing, which led to the postponement of her tour for the album "I'm Only F—ing Myself." Her emotional return at the Spotify showcase, where she performed tracks like "Penny Out of Nothing" and "Dealer," was closely watched by fans who had supported her recovery. "The music industry is intensely challenging," Young reflected regarding the fan support. "I needed time to heal mentally and personally. Artists must protect themselves, and I chose to prioritize my well-being."

Now, Young asserts she is in a healthier state. "I'm back now and feeling better," she stated. "I'm committed to giving my best to the fans who love me." This raw vulnerability has become a hallmark of her rapid rise, especially through "Messy." The Grammy-winning single resonates by celebrating flaws and emotional truth. "I think 'Messy' captures a universal feeling," Young explained. "It's about being imperfect and feeling inadequate—a sentiment many of us share frequently." Industry analysts note that such authenticity is increasingly pivotal in connecting with today's audiences, who value relatability over polished perfection.

During Sunday's Grammy Awards, Young delivered a poignant, piano-accompanied version of "Messy" as part of the Best New Artist medley. She performed alongside the other seven nominees, including winner Olivia Dean—a fellow British soul-pop artist acclaimed for her 2023 debut "Messy" as well—and contenders like Katseye, Addison Rae, and The Marías. This performance not only solidified her comeback but also highlighted the diverse talent in this year's newcomer category, underscoring a broader industry shift toward genre-blending artists.