According to CNN, Liam Payne, the former One Direction star who eventually blossomed into a successful solo career, died on Wednesday, October 16. He died at 31 and is survived by his son Bear Grey, whom he welcomed with singer Cheryl Cole in March 2017.
According to police, Payne died after falling from a third-floor hotel room in Buenos Aires, Argentina. Police said in a statement that they were called to the CasaSur hotel after being notified of an “aggressive man who could be under the effects of drugs and alcohol.”
The hotel manager reported hearing a loud noise from the inner courtyard and the police found that a man had fallen from the balcony of his room, the statement said.
While many of the details surrounding the circumstances of his death remain unclear, Payne had spoken publicly about his struggles with mental health and using alcohol to cope with the pressures of fame.
His death led to an outpouring of grief from music industry stars and fans, including those among the crowd who gathered outside the hotel.
His legacy
The musician was best known as the leader of the British boy band One Direction, which also included Harry Styles, Zayn Malik, Louis Tomlinson, and Niall Horan. The group was formed in 2010 on the U.K. version of The X Factor. After the group went on hiatus in 2015, Payne launched his solo career in 2017.
These 5 songs marked significant milestones in Liam’s career
These songs marked significant milestones for Liam from his debut in One Direction through his solo career and through the years, he was known for his beautiful performances that had women appreciating his craft and brilliance.
What Makes You Beautiful
You had to be living under a rock not to know the song that had everyone throwing bathroom concerts and karaoke performances. “What Makes You Beautiful” was One Direction’s debut single and Liam’s opening voice and face in the video made it even more beautiful.
Steal My Girl
Steal My Girl had me plugged in and stuck for days, and I will be going back to appreciate Liam’s beautiful smile in the video.
Story of My Life
Liam’s verse on this song hits a lot harder now. “It seems to me that when I die, these words will be written on my stone.”
Strip That Down ft Quavo
After the One Direction split, Liam released “Strip That Down” as his debut solo, and I lived for the switch from Soul and R&B to Hip Hop. Who knew Liam had it in him?
Teardrops
Before his death, Liam released Teardrops in March 2024. Teardrops tells the story of a lover struggling to love properly but can’t because they’re broken too. Unfortunately, this will be his last song.
While Liam may be dead, these songs live on in our hearts forever and his life before, during and after One Direction will be celebrated.
Rest in Peace Liam Payne
