Nelly has been forced to pull out of performing at this year’s Brit Awards due to his sister being diagnosed with a serious illness.

Organisers say the star, who has been nominated for International Male Solo Artist, is by his sister’s bedside in America.

“Nelly loves his sister very much. He wants to spend his time with her. He is a good brother” said his spokesperson.

David Gray and Blue have now been added to the line-up of performers, which includes Pink, Coldplay, Sugarbabes, Avril Lavigne and Justin Timberlake.

Both Ms Dynamite and Tom Jones will be dueting with surprise stars at the London ceremony on the 20th of February.

Public tickets for the Brit Awards was sold out in less than 90 minutes.

A full list of nominations is available at www.brits.co.uk