Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter was overcome with emotion during a performance with the band on Thursday night as he dedicated a song to his late sister.

Leslie Carter, 25, died suddenly on Tuesday at her home in upstate New York and reports suggest she suffered a prescription drug overdose and was found unconscious by her stepmother after falling down in the shower.

Pop star Nick Carter vowed to continue touring with the Backstreet Boys after the sad news and he appeared at New York's Irving Plaza on Thursday night for his first performance since his sister's death.

He marked the tragedy by taking to the stage solo to sing an acoustic version of his song Falling Down, which he dedicated to Leslie.

He told the audience, "I never thought I'd ever have to, but I'd like to dedicate this song to my sister."

The star was clearly emotional throughout the performance and his eyes welled up with tears during the song, according to E! Online.