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Grammy Awards 2015: Katy Perry to perform with domestic abuse survivor

The Us pop star will team up with activist Brooke Axtelle for a ballad

Jess Denham
Friday 06 February 2015 16:05 GMT
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Katy Perry will be taking to the Grammys stage on Sunday 8 February
Katy Perry will be taking to the Grammys stage on Sunday 8 February (Getty Images)

Katy Perry is set to welcome a domestic abuse survivor on stage for her Grammys performance this Sunday.

The "Roar" singer is teaming up with Brooke Axtell for a special rendition of ballad "By the Grace of God" in a bid to raise awareness.

Axtell will read a written-word piece alongside Perry's vocals as part of her activism for those affected by domestic violence, sexual assault and sex trafficking.

"It's an hour to collaborate with Katy in this way," Axtell told People. "She has been very devoted to various aspects of female empowerment.

"It's going to bring a lot of encouragement and freedom to those who hear my story and know that they are not alone in this. I don't see myself as a victim. I see myself as a warrior for peace and healing."

Grammys producer Ken Erlich came up with the idea after seeing the opportunity to "do something really important".

"It is one thing to have Katy sing," he said. "But why would we not want to accompany it with someone's personal experience who could humanise [domestic abuse] and make it relatable to millions of men and women who are survivors."

Perry hit headlines last weekend with her colourful and energetic Super Bowl Half-Time Show. It later emerged that her 12-minute performance had broken the record for the most-watched in US history, attracting an average of 118.5 million viewers.

She last performed at the Grammys in 2011 and will return this year alongside the likes of Ariana Grande, Ed Sheeran, Madonna and Sam Smith.

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