There was no announcement as to whether another performer will fill Watson’s spot, or the reason for the performer’s sudden departure.

Electric Avenue organisers and representatives for Watson have been contacted for comment.

Despite the unfortunate news, music fans from all over the country are set to flock to Christchurch next week for what will be one of the biggest two-day music festivals of the NZ summer calendar.

The sold-out event at Hagley Park on February 21 and 22 features a number of other big-name acts, with performances from fellow Aussie electronic act Empire of the Sun on Friday, as well as English band The Kooks on Saturday set to wow crowds.

Kiwi band’s Shapeshifter and LAB are also high on the bill.

In a statement released to the Herald in 2024, festival director Callam Mitchell said interest in the event was high, with more than 25,000 tickets registered.

“We’re stoked by the level of interest – it’s amazing to have a line-up of this calibre to celebrate our 10th birthday and we can’t wait to party with you all.”

Watson, whose single Dance Monkey reached number one in over 30 countries, grew up busking, doing pub gigs, and creating YouTube videos before she gained international stardom in 2019.

She is known for her energetic live performance style and for her music that shares messages of love and acceptance.

Past Electric Avenue headliners have included Kiwi singers Lorde and Benee, as well as electronic acts Fat Freddy’s Drop and Chase and Status (who will also return this year).