As Glee prepares to bid a final farewell to deceased star Cory Monteith in a special tribute episode this Wednesday, cast member Naya Rivera's tribute has been released before the episode airs. If Naya's cover of The Band Perry's 'If I Die Young' is a flavour of what is to come on Thursday, we're sure to be tasting a lot more of those salty tears.

Naya Rivera
Naya Rivera Sings A Heart-Felt Tribute To Cory Monteith.

The gentle, yet impassioned acoustic track laments a short life, the stolen opportunities, as well as being thankful for the happy times. "The sharp knife of a short life, oh well/I've had just enough time" sings Rivera who plays Glee's Santana.

Monteith died in July this year in a Vancouver hotel where he was found after a deadly cocktail of heroin and alcohol. His girlfriend, Lea Michele, who also played his on-screen lover Rachel, was too devastated for months to even leave the house. Monteith was honoured at the Emmy awards last month in a special 'In Memoriam' section, but Thursday's tribute will be a chance for Glee's cast to pay tribute to their treasured friend and talented co-star.

Listen To Naya Rivera's Cover Of 'If I Die Young':

Monteith's character Finn Hudson will be written out of the show, but according to producers substance abuse will not be the cause. However, the show will likely warn against the dangers of drugs as a reaction to Cory's untimely demise. Other songs debuted in the episode will include "Seasons of Love" from the musical Rent and Adele's version of Bob Dylan's "Make You Feel My Love" which will be sung by Michele.

Cory Monteith
Cory Monteith's Unexpected Death Devastated The Glee Cast & Fans.

According to Popwatch, all proceeds from the purchase of the Glee cover tracks will go to the Project Limelight Society, which is a free theatre program for children based in Monteith's native Canada.

Thursday's almost here: get those hankies at the ready!