Usher - Usher Returns To Performing After Stepson's Death

Kile Glover, the 11-year-old son of the singer's ex-wife Tameka Foster, died last month (Jul12) after a jet ski accident in Georgia.

Usher made his first public performance following the tragedy at a star-studded charity event in New York over the weekend (11-12Aug12) to raise millions of dollars for the Big Apple's famed Apollo Theater.

The Yeah! star was among the headline acts during the bash at businessman Ronald Perelman's luxury estate in East Hampton in aid of the Harlem venue, and during his set, he appeared to address the jet ski tragedy.

According to the New York Post's gossip column Page Six, Usher told the audience, "For all the hard times, you can't do it without your friends, so I just want to toast a second... Thank you for allowing me to share this incredible moment with you... Cheers for tears."

Sir Paul MCCartney also made an appearance at the event, and Jennifer Hudson performed a medley of Whitney Houston's hits.

The gig raised more than $2 million (£1.25 million) for the famed theatre, which is credited with helping launch the careers of stars including Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday and James Brown.