British singer Liam Payne was quietly dropped by his record label over concerns that the music he wanted to make wouldn’t appeal to his One Direction fanbase, sources have revealed.
The singer, who passed away at the age of 31 after falling from the third floor of a hotel in Buenos Aires, was reportedly let go by Universal Music, which had previously placed his second album on hold before ultimately severing ties with him.
Insiders have now claimed that Payne’s preference for a different musical direction contributed to the decision.
Speaking to DailyMail.com, a source said: “Liam wanted to create music he enjoyed, but the label felt it wouldn’t resonate with One Direction fans, leading to disagreements over how his brand should be marketed.”
The insider also mentioned that industry budget cuts played a role in the decision, along with the negative press Payne had been receiving. “Universal was making cuts across the board, and unfortunately, Liam’s bad press factored into their decision,” they said.
The source added that online memes and jokes about Payne further influenced the label’s choice to part ways. “His team saw the online ridicule as a signal to exit,” the insider explained. Despite the drop, Payne’s wealth meant he wasn’t financially impacted, but the decision reportedly caused him emotional pain as he felt pressure to compete with his former bandmates.
Following Payne’s death, Universal Music Group paid tribute to him on social media, saying: “We are devastated by the tragic passing of Liam Payne. His legacy will live on through his music and the countless fans he inspired. We send our deepest condolences to Liam’s family and loved ones.”
In addition to being dropped by his label, Payne’s PR team also resigned earlier this month, leaving him without publicity representation. This resignation coincided with legal action from his ex-fiancée, Maya Henry, who accused him of repeatedly contacting her.
A source concluded: “It felt like Liam’s solo career, which he had built over the last eight years, was falling apart, with very little left for him.”