Liam Payne’s death at 31: Celebrities react
In addition to a joint message, the former One Direction members also spoke out individually about Payne’s death.
In one Instagram post on October 17, Tomlinson said that he “lost a brother‘, calling Payne “someone I looked up to every day, such a positive, funny and kind soul.”
Tomlinson recalled: “I first met Liam when he was 16 and I was 18, so was I immediately surprised through his voice, but more importantly, as time passed, I had the opportunity to see the kind brother I longed for all my life. Liam was an incredible songwriter with a great sense of melody. We often talked about getting back into the studio together to try to recreate the writing chemistry we had built in the band. And just for the record, Liam was, in my opinion, the most important part of One Direction.”
The Two of us singer also thanked Payne for “shaping” it. He ended his message with a heartfelt, direct message to his late friend.
He continued: “A message for you, Liam, if you’re listening. I feel beyond lucky to have had you in my life, but I’m really struggling with the idea of saying goodbye.
“I am so grateful that we have become even closer since bonding, talking for hours on the phone and reminiscing on the thousands of wonderful memories we had together is a luxury I thought I would have with you for life.
“I would have liked to share the stage with you again, but that was not to be. I do You should know that as Bear ever needs me, I’ll be the uncle he needs in his life and tell him stories about how great his dad was.
“I wish I had the chance to say goodbye and tell you one more time how much I loved you. Payno, my boy, one of my best friends, my brother, I love you buddy. Sleep well X.”
