Miley Cyrus Breaks Down at Janice Freeman Memorial Service
by Hilton Hater at .Miley Cyrus could barely keep it together on Monday.
For a very good and very understandable, and very sad, reason.
The Grammy nominee was scheduled to perform a song at the memorial of Janice Freeman -- but was too distraught to do so, tearfully introducing her father, Billy Ray Cyrus, to sing a rendition of “Amazing Grace” instead.
She explained why to those in attendance.
“Before we sing this song for Janice, I just want to clear up a rumor. I was never her coach,” Miley, voice shaky, in this video, adding:
“Ever. She was always mine. I learned more from her than anyone that I’ve ever gotten honored to be in the room with, not just vocally.
"I should have gotten more lessons than I did, but she taught me everything that I know about love."
Cyrus did technically serve as Freeman's mentor on Season 13 of The Voice.
Freeman died on March 2 at the age of 33, to the sadness and shock of those who knew her well.
A spokesperson for Freeman's family confirmed to in a statement at the time that she passed away due to combined complications of lupus and a bronchial infection.
"On Saturday afternoon, Janice began complaining that she couldn't breathe properly and, in a matter of minutes, required CPR from her husband," the rep said of her passing
. "He called 911, continuing to do CPR until paramedics arrived.
"While Janice arrived at the hospital alive, continued efforts could not save her. Doctors believe a blood clot had formed in her lungs, which led to her quick demise. Janice Freeman died at 5:30 p.m. PST."
So very sad.
Cyrus quickly paid tribute to the aspiring singer, sharing the photo of a rainbow that you see above.
"Thank you @janicefreeman.. for everything. This represents you perfectly," wrote the star as a caption.
Cyrus and Freeman were far more than just colleagues.
They became so close that Cyus at one time helped Freeman afford a new home.
"“@MileyCyrus you are one of my closest friends and what you did for me and my family Im praying GOD gives you the desire of your heart!" wrote Freeman in response last year.
At her memorial service this week, Cyrus continued through tears:
"I had planned on singing a song for her, but just losing her is just too much for me.
"So … my dad’s gotta take care of this for me. But I’ll always be your sister, and I’m here for you, and I’m here for your family. And Janice, I’ll miss you more than I could ever say."
Cyrus later joined in on her father's performance of "Amazing Grace."
Watch the emotional footage here.
