Liam Payne, alongside Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, and Louis Tomlinson, redefined the boy band concept after forming One Direction on The X Factor in 2010. The group quickly ascended to global stardom, releasing five studio albums and winning seven Brit Awards, including accolades for their debut hit “What Makes You Beautiful” and the poignant track “History” from their final album in 2015, following Malik’s departure.
Despite their success, One Direction went on an indefinite hiatus in 2016 after attempting to continue without Malik, whose decision to step back from the spotlight was made in March 2015. Their last televised performance together took place in December 2015 amid ongoing reunion speculations.
Payne’s journey began in 2008 when he first auditioned for The X Factor at age 14. After being encouraged by judge Simon Cowell to return two years later, he auditioned again as a solo artist at 16. However, he was given the opportunity to join forces with other contestants, leading to the formation of One Direction, which ultimately became one of the show’s greatest successes. Although they finished third in the competition behind Rebecca Ferguson and Matt Cardle, they captured hearts worldwide.
Notably, Payne contributed to the songwriting on all of One Direction’s albums. In 2020, the band celebrated their 10-year anniversary, during which Payne reflected on their journey by sharing a text he sent to his father the day he joined the band, expressing his excitement about being part of a boy band. He thanked fans and his bandmates for their support throughout the years.
