The music community has paid tribute to Liam Payne who died yesterday, aged 31, after falling from a third floor balcony at a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
The former One Direction member’s family also issued a statement earlier today. They say, “We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny and brave soul. We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time”.
The local authorities in Buenos Aires have said they are currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the singer’s death, though some information is already in circulation.
According to media reports, hotel management initially put in a call to emergency services to report that an “aggressive man who could be under the influence of drugs or alcohol” was “breaking everything” in their room, adding that the guest could be in danger because of the balcony.
When the ambulance arrived six minutes later, paramedics found Payne lying on the hotel’s internal patio. They have stated that there was no possibility of resuscitating him as his injuries were so severe.
As a member of One Direction, Payne experienced a rapid rise to fame through the ‘X-Factor’ TV show and the group’s subsequent global success working with Sony Music and Simon Cowell’s Syco. After the group split, Payne pursued a solo career, working with Universal Music labels on his releases.
Among the numerous artists paying tribute on social media was Rita Ora, who collaborated with Payne on the 2018 track ‘For You’. She writes, “I’m devastated. He had the kindest soul, I will never forget. I loved working with him so much – he was just such a joy to be around on and off stage. This tragic news breaks my heart. Sending all my love and prayers to his family and loved ones. Our song ‘For You’ takes on a whole new meaning for me now”.
Fellow ‘X-Factor’ alumnus Olly Murs also posted to social media, stating, “This news is devastating, am lost for words. We always had a good laugh when we saw each other … Liam shared the same passions as me, the same dreams, so to see his life now end so young hits hard, I’m truly gutted and devastated for his family”.
Among the music industry organisations to pay tribute was collecting society PRS, which wrote, “We’re shocked and saddened by the death of Liam Payne. A PRS member since the formation of one of the most well known bands of this generation, One Direction, in 2010, Liam co-wrote over 70 songs across his time with 1D and his solo work. His music will live on for generations to come. Our thoughts are with Liam’s family and friends at this time. RIP”.