The 31-year-old 'I Remember Me' hitmaker was deeply moved at Vh1's Do Something Awards, where celebrities and members are awarded for their contribution towards social causes, reported Contactmusic.
Hudson broke down after a video clipping featuring snaps of her late parents and nephew began to be shown while she was awarded.
She then gave a performance with J Cole. Later the singer took to Twitter thanking the organisers.
"Thank you Do Something Awards and Vh1 for the recognition. Performing with J cole was like performing with prince to me. He's such a good guy. So honored," she posted.