Renowned singer-songwriter Benson Boone captivated audiences with his heartfelt cover of Sam Fender‘s iconic track “Seventeen Going Under” during the prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland. This performance became necessary after Fender was unfortunately unable to attend the event due to a sudden health issue.

Originally, Sam Fender was slated to headline the festival’s July 15 edition, sharing the stage with notable artists like Benson Boone and Mark Ambor. Unfortunately, earlier this month on July 4, he announced that he could no longer perform due to a concerning health issue—a “haemorrhage on one of his vocal cords,” which led to medical advice requiring him to rest for a full two weeks.

In a heartfelt message, Fender expressed his frustration over the situation, emphasizing his diligence in maintaining his vocal health. “This year has been the best of my career,” he shared. He further explained the risks involved, stating, “If I were to play at these next shows, I would be jeopardizing my vocal cords and potentially causing lasting damage.”

Despite Fender’s absence, Benson Boone found himself elevated to the role of headliner for the event. He acknowledged the talent of Fender and expressed his admiration, but also candidly asked the audience, “Did anyone come here to see Sam Fender today?” This poignant question highlighted the uncertainty he felt about stepping into such a significant role.

As Boone took the stage, he admitted to feeling “terrified” about filling Fender’s shoes, fearing the reaction of fans who had come expecting to see the original artist. He anticipated encountering a crowd of disappointed attendees rather than the enthusiastic supporters he hoped for.

To honor the expectations of those who had come to see Fender, Boone chose to perform a cover of the poignant single “Seventeen Going Under.” This decision demonstrated his respect for the original artist and an understanding of the emotional connection fans have with the song.

“I truly hope that the audience members who came to see Sam today can find some enjoyment in this song,” Boone stated. “It’s a beautifully crafted piece.” His thoughtful approach reflected his desire to connect with the fans and honor Fender’s artistry.

Sam Fender’s latest album, People Watching, was released in February and serves as a follow-up to his previous work, Seventeen Going Under. Regrettably, its launch was also overshadowed by his vocal cord issues, which had previously led him to cancel several shows earlier in the year due to similar concerns.

On December 17, Fender informed his followers about the severity of his condition, revealing that two separate ENT doctors had advised him against performing until he allowed his voice to rest and heal properly. “If I perform tonight, I risk causing permanent damage to my voice,” he cautioned.

The talented Sam Fender is currently set to make his triumphant return to the stage on August 8, headlining the Syd For Solen festival in Denmark. Fans are eagerly awaiting his performance, hoping for a strong comeback after a challenging period.