Liam Payne is said to have been “quietly dropped” from Universal Music just weeks before his death.
Sources confirmed that the record label made this decision after disagreements over the musical direction of his second album.
Payne, 31, fell from a hotel balcony in Buenos Aires, Argentina, and died on impact. After his death, it was revealed that Universal Music was worried that the new material would not appeal to fans.
As a source told the Daily Mail, “Liam wanted to make the kind of music he loved but his record label believed it wouldn’t appeal to 1D fans so there were disagreements over how His brand should have been marketed.”
The second source added that cuts to the airline’s budget were the main factor leading to the dissolution.
Poor online response to Payne’s previous work also played a role in Universal’s decision.
Payne is said to also feel pressured by his record label but remains hopeful about the potential success of his second album – especially given how well things are going for the band members. his music, including Harry Styles.
Niall Horan posts tribute to Liam Payne:
“I felt so lucky to have met him recently. I sadly didn’t know that after saying goodbye and hugging him that night, I would be saying goodbye forever. It was heartbreaking.” pic.twitter.com/V8XqhdI8IO
– Pop Tingz (@ThePopTingz) October 18, 2024
When Payne passed away, Niall Horan, paid an equally heartfelt tribute to his former One Direction bandmate on social media.
“Payne was a great friend,” Horan said of their memories together. He wrote on Instagram: “I am deeply saddened by the passing of my wonderful friend, Liam. The feeling is unreal. Liam had a will to live and a passion for his work that was infectious. He He is the smartest person in every field.” room and always makes everyone feel happy and safe.
“All the laughs we’ve had over the years, sometimes about the simplest things, keep coming to mind through the sadness. We’ve fulfilled our wildest dreams together.” You and I will cherish every moment we have forever,” he continued.
Universal Music has yet to respond to reports suggesting Payne is leaving the label.