One Direction's Louis Tomlinson pays tribute to 'brother' Liam Payne after his shock death

17 October 2024, 22:03

One Direction singer Louis Tomlinson has paid tribute to bandmate Liam Payne after his death aged 31.

Louis Tomlinson has paid tribute to his One Direction bandmate Liam Payne, following his tragic death aged 31.

The 32-year-old took to Instagram, writing: "I am beyond devastated to be writing this but yesterday I lost a brother. Liam was somebody I looked up to everyday, such a positive, funny, and kind soul.

"I first met Liam when he was 16 and I was 18, I was instantly amazed by his voice but more importantly as time went on I got a chance to see the kind brother I’d longed all my life for.

"Liam was an incredible song writer with a great sense of melody, we often spoke of getting back in the studio together to try and recreate the writing chemistry we had built up in the band.

"And for the record, Liam was in my opinion the most vital part of One Direction. His experience from a young age, his perfect pitch, his stage presence, his gift for writing. The list goes on. Thank you for shaping us Liam."

He continued: "A message to 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’m so grateful that we got even closer since the band, speaking on the phone for hours , reminiscing about all the thousands of amazing memories we had together is a luxury I thought I’d have with you for life. I would have loved to share the stage with you again but it wasn’t to be.

"I want you to know that if Bear ever needs me I will be the Uncle he needs in his life and tell him stories of how amazing his dad was.

"I wish I got 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 mate. Sleep well X"

• Read more: Liam Payne tributes pour in from Dermot O'Leary, Olly Murs and more following his shock death aged 31
• Read more: Rita Ora breaks down in tears on stage during emotional tribute to Liam Payne

This comes after his fellow One Direction bandmates Harry Styles, Niall Horan and Zayn Malik released a joint statement saying they were 'heartbroken' by his death.

The singers said: "We’re completely devastated by the news of Liam’s passing. In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say. But for now, we will take some time to grieve and process the loss of our brother, who we loved dearly. The memories we shared with him will be treasured forever.

"For now, our thoughts are with his family, his friends, and the fans who loved him alongside us. We will miss him terribly. We love you Liam.- Louis, Zayn, Niall and Harry."

• Read more: Liam Payne family: Who are the One Direction star's mum, dad and sisters?
• Read more: Liam Payne and son Bear's relationship including first moments to last picture
• Read more: Liam Payne family: Who are the One Direction star's mum, dad and sisters?