The 28-year-old was midway through her performance of Michael’s “Fast Love” when she stopped abruptly and said, “I know it’s live TV … I’m sorry for swearing, and I’m sorry for starting again.”
She added, “I can’t mess this up for him,” before starting the song over. As she finished singing, Adele had obvious tears in her eyes.
Many other stars championed the singer for ensuring the Michael tribute was done right, including Chrissy Teigen, who wrote on Twitter, “Major major @adele respects. S— happens when you actually sing live. She was incredible.”
Rihanna appeared verklempt and put a hand over her chest after Adele finished her performance – seemingly in solidarity with the singer.
This article originally appeared on PEOPLE.com