In a heartbreaking moment that brought few tears to the crowd, British singer and songwriter Rita Ora paid tribute to the late international pop icon Liam Payne with a moving tribute at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMA). The event, held at Manchester’s Co-op Live stadium, marked Ora’s third appearance hosting the event. But this year’s role was particularly somber as she remembered her best friend and former musical collaborator, calling him “one of the kindest people I’ve ever had.” “I knew it.” The tribute comes almost a month after Liam Payne tragically passed away on October 16, aged 31.
Rita Ora, dressed in a black suit, stood under a spotlight in contrast to the bright atmosphere of the rest of the awards show, her voice visibly shaking as she addressed the crowd at the end of the night. “I want to take time to remember someone who was very dear to us,” she began. Her words were met with somber silence from the crowd, the lively atmosphere giving way to heartbreaking silence. “We lost him (Liam Payne) recently. He was a big part of the MTV world and my world. I think there will be a lot of you and everyone here at home tonight.”
Ora and Payne shared a special musical connection, collaborating on the 2018 hit “For You.” 50 Shades Freed It instantly became a fan-favorite soundtrack. Their partnership on this single was a cherished highlight for fans as the song reached number 8 on the Official UK Singles Chart. With that connection in mind, Ora went on to praise Payne, describing him as “one of the kindest people I know.” She added, struggling to hold back tears. “He had the biggest heart and was always the first person to help in any way he could.”
This year’s EMA, held in the UK for the first time since 2017, began with high-energy performances and star-studded moments, but Ora’s tribute added a quiet gravitas. “There were so many ways we talked about honoring him, and I think sometimes just saying it is enough,” she said. Payne, who first rose to fame with One Direction, has had a lasting impact on fans and friends alike. “He brought so much joy to every room he entered and left such a mark on this world. So let’s take a moment to remember our friend Liam.”
As Ora spoke, a video montage of images from across Payne’s career played on screen, along with One Direction’s heartbreaking track “Night Changes.” As the familiar melody filled the stadium, many in the audience were visibly moved as they paid tribute to the beloved singer who touched the lives of millions around the world.
Liam Payne’s tragic death in Buenos Aires last month shocked the global music community and his fans. He reportedly fell from the third floor of the hotel, and an investigation is ongoing with three people preliminary charged in connection with his death. Payne’s unexpected and untimely death resonated deeply with his fans and colleagues, as his warm presence and generosity left an undeniable legacy.
In addition to Ora’s tribute, the 2024 EMAs also recognized other notable winners including Taylor Swift as Best Artist, Raye as Best UK & Ireland Act, Sabrina Carpenter as Best Song for ‘Espresso’, Benson Boone as Best New Artist, and Tyla as Best R&B. Congratulations. . But it was Ora’s moving words and Payne’s memories that left the most lasting impression on attendees and fans around the world.
Stream and listen to Liam’s latest single ‘Teardrops’. We celebrate his voice and spirit through his musical legacy!
