Liam Payne Reportedly Dropped by Record Label Amid Creative Differences

 

British singer Liam Payne was quietly released by his record label, Universal Music, due to concerns that his musical direction would not resonate with his One Direction fanbase, according to sources. This decision comes in the wake of the tragic news of Payne's passing at the age of 31, following a fall from a hotel in Buenos Aires.

Insiders claim that Universal put Payne's second album on hold before ultimately severing ties with him. They suggested that the label's executives disagreed with the type of music he wanted to pursue, believing it wouldn’t appeal to fans of One Direction. "Liam wanted to make the sort of music he enjoyed, but his label believed it wouldn't win over 1D fans," one source revealed to DailyMail.com. The insider also mentioned that budget cuts within the industry played a role in the decision, alongside negative press surrounding Payne.

Furthermore, it is reported that the label's decision was influenced by the online memes and jokes that circulated about him. "The entire music industry is making cuts and restructuring to cut costs, so Universal decided to drop Liam quietly and invest in other artists," the source added. While Payne was financially secure, the pressure to compete with his former bandmates weighed heavily on him.

In a heartfelt tribute following his passing, Universal Music Group expressed their sorrow, stating, "We are devastated by the tragic passing of Liam Payne. His legacy will live on through his music and the countless fans he inspired and who adored him. We send our deepest condolences to Liam's family and loved ones."

Additionally, Payne faced personal challenges as his public relations team resigned earlier this month, leaving him without representation. This resignation coincided with legal actions taken by his ex-fiancée, Maya Henry, who accused him of repeatedly contacting her.

Sources close to the situation described the turmoil surrounding Payne's music career, stating, "It is like all of Liam's music career that he had built up since he went solo eight years ago was crumbling; there was very little left for him. It must have absolutely devastated him."