Real reason Liam Payne was 'quietly dropped' by record label before his death
The decision was rumoured to have been made days before his fatal fall from a balcony while abroad on holiday
by Bethany Gavaghan, Jamie Roberts · Wales OnlineLiam Payne's record label reportedly dropped the star shortly before his untimely death amid concerns that his new music wouldn't resonate with One Direction fans. Liam tragically lost his life after a fall from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina, at the age of 31.
Before his passing, Universal Music is said to have "quietly dropped" him after putting his second album on ice. His debut album reached number 17 on the UK album chart but quickly exited the Top 50 the following week.
While the performance might seem disappointing, Liam was undeterred and aimed for greater success with his next album. But reports suggest that his label did not share his enthusiasm for his new music.
READ MORE: Liam Payne funeral plans and autopsy results following tragic balcony fall
A source told the Daily Mail: "Liam wanted to make the sort of music he enjoyed but his label believed it wouldn't win over 1D fans so there were disagreements about the way his brand should have been marketed."
The insider also noted that budget cuts contributed to his departure. It was hinted that the decision to sever ties was influenced by "all the memes and jokes people made about him online."
The source further mentioned that although Liam was not financially dependent on a successful new album, the triumphs of former bandmates like Harry Styles would have put pressure on him to achieve similar results. The Mirror has reached out to Universal for a statement.
Liam had been in the audience to see former One Direction bandmate Niall Horan perform in Argentina just weeks before his untimely passing. In a poignant statement, Niall broke his silence on the loss, describing Liam as an "amazing friend" in a deeply moving tribute.
Taking to Instagram with heartfelt words, Niall said: "I'm absolutely devastated about the passing of my amazing friend, Liam. It just doesn't feel real. Liam had an energy for life and a passion for work that was infectious. He was the brightest in every room and always made everyone feel happy and secure."
"All the laughs we had over the years, sometimes about the simplest of things, keep coming to mind through the sadness. We got to live out our wildest dreams together and I will cherish every moment we had forever."
He also reflected on their last encounter, saying that he didn't know it would be the last time they saw each other. Niall added: "The bond and friendship we had doesn't happen often in a lifetime. I feel so fortunate that I got to see him recently. I sadly didn't know that after saying goodbye and hugging him that evening, I would be saying goodbye forever. It's heart-breaking. My love and condolences go out to Geoff, Karen, Ruth, Nicola and of course his son Bear. Thank you for everything, Payno. Love you brother. Nialler."