In the wake of the tragic news of Liam Payne's passing, heartfelt tributes have been pouring in from individuals who had known him since his rise to fame as a teenager.
Former 'X-Factor' presenter Dermot O’Leary took to Instagram to reminisce about Payne's audition at the age of 14, where he impressed everyone with his rendition of a Sinatra classic. O’Leary described Payne as a joy to work with, always humble, polite, and grateful, with a genuine love for singing.
Anne Twist, the mother of Payne's former bandmate Harry Styles, expressed her sorrow with a broken-hearted emoji on Instagram, emphasizing the loss of a young talent.
Devoted fans of Payne and his former band One Direction have been sharing their shock and grief on social media, recalling the impact the group had on their lives during their formative years. For many, being a Directioner was a significant part of their youth, providing a sense of belonging to something greater.
At a vigil held outside Payne's hotel in Buenos Aires, 25-year-old fan Yamila Zacarias reflected on the profound influence One Direction had on her life, highlighting the band's role in fostering a sense of community and shared passion among fans.
During the vigil, mourners lit candles and sang One Direction's song 'Infinity' in honor of Payne's memory, underscoring the deep connection fans felt with the music and the artist.
Not only fans but also fellow artists have expressed their sorrow over Payne's untimely passing. Producer Zedd and singer-songwriter Charlie Puth shared their shock and condolences, with Puth recalling Payne's kindness and the positive experience of collaborating with him.
The sudden loss of Liam Payne has reverberated across the music industry and among fans worldwide, leaving a void in the hearts of those who admired his talent and spirit.