Katy Perry has explained the reasons behind he tearful breakdown at the Radio 1 Teen Awards at the weekend.

The singer was reduced to tears as she tried to perform her new single ‘Firework' for the crowd in London.

Speaking to the Daily Star, Perry said the magnitude of the event, which honoured inspiration teenagers, got to her.

“I was emotional before I sang ‘Firework.’ I got chills and butterflies – it’s a huge adrenaline rush,” she said. “All the hairs stick up on my body and sometimes I don’t even have to sing because the crowds sing it louder.

“I still feel nervous performing to crowds. It’s not that I don’t feel ready but I worry that they’ll rush the stage as they’re all screaming my name or I feel like a wanna yack!”

The Teen Awards at Hammersmith Apollo also featured appearances from the likes of Taylor Swift, The Wanted and JLS.

Stars honoured included Twilight actor Robert Pattinson, who accepted his two awards via video message.

(by Jason Gregory)