Nick Carter to continue with tour as a tribute to his late sister

Backstreet Boys star Nick Carter is pressing on with an upcoming tour despite his sister's sudden death on Tuesday (31Jan12).

Aspiring singer Leslie Carter passed away of unknown causes in upstate New York at the age of 25, but the Larger Than Life hitmaker has decided to carry on with his musical commitments and dedicate the remainder of his gigs to his late sibling.

A statement released by publicist Jack Ketsoyan on the musician's behalf, reads, "Nick Carter is thankful to the many people and the fans who have shared their wishes and prayers during this tragic time."

Carter adds, "We want to let the fans know the tour will go on as promised. Performing is cathartic to me and I am dedicating the rest of my tour to my sister since she loved to watch me perform."

As a result, the singer will next take to the stage at New York's Irving Plaza on Thursday (02Feb12).