One Direction pay tribute to Liam Payne: “The memories we shared will be forever”

The band members spoke together about the loss of their friend and his importance to the group

Former One Direction members Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Louis Tomlinson and Zayn Malik released a joint statement this Thursday (10/16) in honor of former bandmate Liam Payne, who died on Wednesday (10/15) at the age aged 31 after a fall in Buenos Aires.

“We are completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing. When the time is right, and when everyone is ready, we will have more to say. But for now, let’s take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we have loved deeply. The memories we shared with him will be cherished forever. At this time, our thoughts are with his family, friends and fans who loved him along with us.

The note was published on the group’s official Instagram, which had not been updated for more than four years.

Homage to Louis Tomlinson and reflections on friendship

In a personal post, Tomlinson called Payne “my boyfriend, one of my best friends, my brother” and described his sadness at losing his bandmate. “Liam was, in my opinion, the most essential part of One Direction. His experience, stage presence and songwriting talent made the difference,” he said. The singer also recalled conversations they had and regretted not having had the chance to say goodbye, promising Payne’s son Bear that he would be “the uncle she’ll need in life.”

Zayn Malik expresses gratitude and desire

Zayn Malik also paid tribute to Payne, revealing that he often finds himself talking to himself, “hoping he can hear me”. In a touching message, Malik highlighted the support he received from his friend during difficult times and described Payne as “stubborn and opinionated, but always more sensible than me”. The singer concluded by saying that he lost “a brother” and that he will always cherish the memories he shared with him.

Liam Payne’s career and impact

Payne gained fame when he joined One Direction, formed on the reality show . After the group disbanded in 2016, he embarked on a solo career, releasing the single “Strip That Down” in 2017 and since then only one album, “LP1” (2019). The singer had difficulty creating a new solo album, which was postponed after the single “Teardrops” did not enter the TOP 30 most played songs in the UK, reaching only 43rd position. He ended his contract with his manager at the beginning of 2024.

The artist died after falling from the 3rd floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Local authorities said the singer suffered multiple traumas and that the case will be investigated as a “doubtful death” due to a possible epidemic linked to substance abuse, according to a statement from Buenos Aires’ Ministry of Security.

Source: Terra

Earl

Earl Johnson is a music writer at Gossipify, known for his in-depth analysis and unique perspective on the industry. A graduate of USC with a degree in Music, he brings years of experience and passion to his writing. He covers the latest releases and trends, always on the lookout for the next big thing in music.