Liam Payne, who tragically passed away on October 16, 2024, in Buenos Aires at age 31, leaves behind a silence that’s tough to fill.
But rather than dwell on the emptiness, let’s revisit what he left behind—a playlist of tracks that capture his highs, his lows, and everything in between.
Here’s a rundown of some of the most memorable tunes from a career that spanned boyband mania and solo ventures. Let’s get into it.
1. “Strip That Down” (feat. Quavo)
Debut Solo Single | #10 Billboard Hot 100
This one’s the game-changer. “Strip That Down” was Liam’s not-so-subtle way of stepping out of One Direction’s shadow.
Sure, he teamed up with Quavo, but the real star here is that carefree swagger Liam brings.
“You know, I used to be in 1D, now I’m out free,” he sings, and it’s clear he was relishing the new creative freedom.
It’s got a beat that doesn’t quit, co-written by Ed Sheeran, and a hook that got stuck in everyone’s head back in 2017.
This track screamed, “I’m doing my own thing now,” and fans were more than ready to listen.
2. “For You” (with Rita Ora)
Soundtrack Sensation | #1 in Germany
Liam Payne and Rita Ora belting out a love anthem against the backdrop of Fifty Shades Freed.
It’s dramatic, it’s lush; it’s everything you’d expect from a song that’s supposed to play while two fictional characters make out on screen.
“Been waiting for a lifetime for you,” Liam sings in the chorus, capturing that all-consuming romance.
“For You” quickly became a fan favourite, and honestly, it’s no wonder why. The chemistry between their voices? Undeniable.
3. “Get Low” (with Zedd)
Dance Floor Vibe | Top 20 on Dance/Electronic Chart
Liam Payne in a Zedd track? Yeah, that happened. “Get Low” might not have been deep, but it didn’t need to be.
“Your waistline, the bassline, in real life, don’t wanna no FaceTime,” he sings with a cheeky nod to the instant connections of summer flings.
It’s all about the rhythm, the catchy beat, and the perfect excuse to turn up the volume on a summer drive.
It’s the kind of song that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and neither did Liam when he recorded it—a reminder that music doesn’t always have to be more than a good time.
4. “Familiar” (feat. J Balvin)
Latin-Pop Fusion | Top 20 UK Hit
When Liam teamed up with J Balvin, they delivered “Familiar,” a track that makes you want to move.
It’s got that sultry, club-ready beat, blending English and Spanish lyrics like they’ve been doing this for years.
Liam’s line, “You’ve been creeping round my mind all day,” gives the track a playful, flirty vibe that fits right in with the steamy production.
It showed Liam’s ability to step outside the typical pop star comfort zone, delivering something that felt fresh without trying too hard.
5. “Both Ways”
Deep Cut | Unapologetically Bold
Now here’s a track that sparked more than a few conversations. “Both Ways” from LP1 delves into themes that are, let’s say, a little spicier than what we’re used to from a former boybander.
Liam doesn’t hold back with lines like, “Lovin’ the way that she’s turning you on, switching the positions.”
The lyrics are frank, the beats are trappy, and it’s clear Liam wasn’t afraid to explore new territory.
Love it or hate it, you have to admit—it’s a song that made you pay attention.
6. “Story of My Life” (One Direction)
Heartfelt Anthem | #6 Billboard Hot 100
This one’s a classic. “Story of My Life” isn’t just a song; it’s a whole memory for those who grew up with One Direction.
Liam’s voice carries the emotion of the track, especially in the line, “And I’ll be gone, gone tonight, the ground beneath my feet is open wide.”
It’s about family, time slipping through your fingers, and all those things you wish you could hang onto.
If you’ve ever found yourself staring out a window, listening to this on repeat—yeah, you’re not alone.
7. “What Makes You Beautiful” (One Direction)
Pop Perfection | #4 Billboard Hot 100
Remember when this came out and suddenly you couldn’t escape the chorus?
Liam’s opening lines—“You’re insecure, don’t know what for”—became a defining sound of the early 2010s.
Sure, it’s cheesy, but sometimes a little cheese is just what you need.
It’s the song that launched a thousand fanfics, and even now, it holds a special place in the nostalgia playlist.
8. “Polaroid” (with Jonas Blue & Lennon Stella)
Romantic Pop Tune
“Polaroid” captures that magical, fleeting moment of falling for someone new.
“Took a Polaroid, you signed your name upon it,” Liam croons, and suddenly, you’re right there with him in that moment.
The collaboration with Jonas Blue and Lennon Stella added a dreamy layer to the song, making it the kind of track you’d put on during a long drive, wondering if that person you met at a party might just be the one.
9. “Same Mistakes” (One Direction)
Deep Cut | Reflective and Raw
If you know, you know. “Same Mistakes” might not have been a chart-topping single, but it’s a gem for those who loved the quieter moments of One Direction’s early albums.
Liam’s voice lends a warmth to this track, especially with lyrics like, “But we always seem to give it one last try.”
It’s about falling into the same patterns, but with a melody that makes you feel a little less alone in the process.
10. “Night Changes” (One Direction)
Bittersweet Ballad | Top 10 UK
“Night Changes” isn’t just about growing up; it’s about how fast everything can change while you’re not looking.
The acoustic vibes, the wistful lyrics—it’s the kind of song that makes you pause.
“Even when the night changes, it will never change me and you,” Liam sings, offering a little reassurance amidst the uncertainty. It’s like a time capsule of the band’s final chapter.
The Playlist Lives On
Liam Payne’s story isn’t just about the fame, the headlines, or the struggles.
It’s in the music that so many fans turned to during both their best and worst days.
From his time as the dependable “Daddy Direction” to a solo artist with something to prove, his journey has been one of transformation, vulnerability, and resilience.
As we press play on these songs again, it’s clear that Liam’s voice is going to stick around a lot longer than anyone could have guessed.
