Taylor Swift and Ariana Grande pay tribute to label boss at charity gala

Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande and Jessie J were among the artists who offered tributes to their record label boss at a charity gala in New York City.

Music mogul Charlie Walk was feted for his charity work at the Musicians on Call gala in the Big Apple on Tuesday night (18Nov14) along with singer Kelly Clarkson, who was also handed a prize for her philanthropic contributions.

A host of Walk's musical protegees, including Swift and Grande, recorded video tributes praising the Republic Records boss, with the problem hitmaker describing him as a "musical genius... also just a really stellar dude."

Jessie J, who has also worked with Walk, gave a speech at the event, which raises money to bring music to hospital patients, and she recalled her own previous health problems, telling the audience, "When I was a child, I was sick and I wished someone would come and sing to me. I feel so happy that I am on the other side and now I can give back. I never let my illness define me."

Jessie J was diagnosed with a heart condition as a child and suffered a stroke when she was a teenager.

Pop star Nick Jonas was among the performers and guests included Pete Wentz, Nick Lachey, Wyclef Jean and Flo Rida.

The event raised around $700,000 for the Musicians on Call charity.