Last night saw an extremely special performance as Tom Walker and The Duchess Of Cambridge joined forces for a stunning version of Tom’s new track ‘For Those Who Can’t Be Here’ as part of the ‘Royal Carols: Together At Christmas’ - broadcast on ITV.
Taking to the piano, The Duchess accompanied Tom in what was an incredibly moving performance of the highly emotional song that speaks eloquently of heartfelt sorrow for all those no longer with us.
Tom is no stranger to the Royals. Two years ago in played ‘Leave A Light On’ at a private Royal Foundation Fundraiser Dinner at which The Duchess of Cambridge was present. After recently playing a charity event for Forward Trust, of which The Duchess of Cambridge is Patron, Tom was asked to perform at the Royal Carols: Together At Christmas show. He was initially approached about singing ‘Leave A Light On’ but suggested his new Christmas song ‘For Those Who Can’t Be Here’ instead. Kate then asked if she could play piano during the performance and it was the perfect fit for the carol service at Westminster Abbey.
Hosted and spearheaded by The Duchess Of Cambridge, and supported by The Royal Foundation, the service featured carols sung by the Westminster Abbey choir, and paid tribute to the incredible hard work of individuals and organizations across the UK who have supported their communities through the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.
Reflecting on the special performance, Tom says; “It was truly an honour playing alongside The Duchess for Royal Carols: Together at Christmas. Without doubt, it was a once in a lifetime experience. I thought she absolutely smashed the performance; it's not easy to just jump behind a piano with a bunch of musicians you've never played with before and record live takes to camera, but she completely nailed it.
"She's such a lovely, kind & warm hearted person and she took the time to thank everyone personally for the opportunity to play together. It was a crazy pinch yourself kind of day for me, to be in such a beautiful venue playing alongside The Duchess with my band and a string quartet. I certainly won't forget that in a hurry! My mum had a total freak out when she saw it on the telly. I know this song will resonate with a lot of people this Christmas and my heart goes out to anyone raising a glass around the table remembering those who can't be with us.”