Liam Payne, former member of One Direction, tragically passed away at the age of 31. From being the cute boy next door to an attractive solo singer, the UK singer grew up in front of the world. The untimely death of the musician has left behind a legacy marked by creativity and a whole lot of tunes.
Here, we explore five songs that not only defined his career, but also earned him accolades, global performances, and artistic recognition.
‘For You’ (2018) feat. Rita Ora
Liam’s collaboration with Rita Ora for the Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack was a career milestone. For You became a major hit, highlighting Liam's versatility in producing cinematic and romantic soundscapes. The song was performed at various award shows and earned a nomination for Best British Single at the BRIT Awards, showcasing his ability to merge mainstream pop with a powerful performance style.
‘Polaroid’ (2018) with Jonas Blue and Lennon Stella
A shift towards a more electronic pop vibe, Polaroid was a collaboration that displayed Liam’s adaptability as an artiste. The song earned millions of streams worldwide and was performed live on multiple global stages, highlighting his skill in connecting with diverse audiences. The upbeat summer track solidified his place in the contemporary pop scene.
‘Strip That Down’ (2017)
The debut single that launched Liam’s solo career, Strip That Down featured Quavo and was co-written by Ed Sheeran. The track peaked at No. 10 on the US Billboard Hot 100 and reached No. 3 in the UK, becoming a commercial success. It earned him two BRIT Award nominations for British Single and British Artist Video of the Year. With its blend of pop and rap influences, Strip That Down set the tone for Liam’s solo style.
‘What Makes You Beautiful; (2011) - One Direction
This was the song that started it all. As the debut single of One Direction, What Makes You Beautiful became a worldwide sensation, reaching No. 1 in several countries. The song’s massive success catapulted the band to stardom, and its infectious energy became iconic. It won the BRIT Award for Best British Single — an early sign of Liam’s future success.
‘Night Changes’ (2014) - One Direction
A standout track from album Four, Night Changes showcased One Direction’s shift towards a mature, acoustic sound. Co-written by Liam Payne with bandmates and collaborators Julian Bunetta and John Ryan, the song tells a nostalgic story about the passage of time and change. It reached No. 7 on the UK Singles Chart and performed well internationally, earning Platinum certifications across multiple regions. Liam’s vocal delivery highlighted his emotional depth, making the track a fan favourite. It was a staple in the On the Road Again tour in 2015, where audiences joined in passionately.