Singer-songwriter Jimmy Balito earned a standing ovation tonight after delivering a stunning performance of High and Dry by Radiohead just weeks after his dad, Colin, died of cancer.

The 23-year-old from Pulborough went through the knockout stages and secured a spot in the semi-finals. He beat teammates Eva Campbell and Harrison Larner-Main.

Jimmy said he sang for his father and added: "My dad was ill for some time, he was sick with cancer.

"He came to watch the battles and he was ecstatic that I made it through. Shortly after he got ill, within a week he passed away."

At the battles, Colin told the cameras: "I’m so proud and he is the future of me, and the future of us."

Jimmy added: "I just wish he was here to see it. There were definitely times where I thought 'it's not my time' and I couldn't do this.

"But dad would have wanted me to carry on and I will just do that."

After Jimmy's performance, his coach Olly Murs, said: "You were truly amazing. You sang with passion and I am so proud of you."

Sir Tom Jones said: "I heard what happened with your father. It's great that you could sing through that. Your father is looking down at you and you've made him proud. Well done."

Jennifer Hudson said: "I learnt that the best way to honour your family is to do the best that you can. Your father is extremely proud of you."

Jimmy said: "I want to thank Olly personally for giving me the time and the comfort I needed." 

Jimmy paid a tribute to his father on his Instagram account. He wrote: "On January 14 my amazing dad, Colin Edwin Bailey passed away peacefully at home surrounded by his adoring family.

"He was the greatest, kindest, funniest and humble man you could ever wish to meet.

"I loved him with all my heart and will continue to strive to be even half the man he was."

At the end of his stunning performance, Jimmy ran to his family in the audience as the tears flowed as the audience rose to give him a standing ovation. 

He wrote on his Instagram page: "EEEEYYYYYYY!!!!! We did it peeps! SEMI FINALS can you believe it? 

"Family is all you got! Look after them and if you’re down or in a rut, talk and get it out. Don’t suffer alone."