In a poignant moment that left few dry eyes in the crowd, British singer and songwriter Rita Ora honoured the late global pop icon Liam Payne with a moving tribute at the 2024 MTV Europe Music Awards (EMAs). The event, held at the Co-op Live arena in Manchester, marked Ora’s third time hosting, but this year’s role carried an especially sombre note as she remembered her dearest friend and former music collaborator, calling him “one of the kindest people that I knew”. The tribute came nearly a month after Liam Payne’s tragic passing on October 16, at just 31 years old.
Dressed in a black dark suit, in contrast to the upbeat tone of the rest of the ceremony, Rita Ora stood under the spotlight, her voice visibly shaking as she addressed the crowd toward the end of the night. “I just want to take a moment to remember someone who was very, very dear to us,” she began. Her words were greeted with a sombre hush from the crowd, the lively atmosphere giving way to a poignant, pin-drop silence. “We lost him [Liam Payne] recently, and he was a big part of the MTV world and my world, and I think a lot of yours at home and everybody in here tonight.”
Ora and Payne shared a special musical connection, having collaborated on their 2018 hit “For You” from the Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack, which became an instant fan favourite. Their partnership on the single was a cherished highlight for fans, as the song climbed to No. 8 on the UK’s official singles chart. With that connection in mind, Ora continued her tribute, describing Payne as “one of the kindest people that I knew.” Struggling to hold back tears, she added, “He had the biggest heart and was always the first person to offer help in any way that he could.”
This year’s EMAs, held in the UK for the first time since 2017, had begun with high-energy performances and star-studded moments, but Ora’s tribute added a quiet gravity. “There were so many ways that we were talking about honouring him, and I think sometimes just simply speaking is enough,” she said. Payne, who first rose to fame with One Direction, had a lasting impact on fans and friends alike. “He brought so much joy to every room he walked into, and he left such a mark on this world. So let’s just take a moment to remember our friend Liam.”
Following Ora’s words, a video montage played onscreen featuring images of Payne throughout his career, accompanied by One Direction’s poignant track “Night Changes.” As the familiar melody filled the arena, many in the audience were visibly moved, paying their respects to the beloved singer who touched millions of lives around the world.
Liam Payne’s tragic death in Buenos Aires last month shocked the global music community and his fans. He allegedly fell from the third floor of a hotel, and investigations are ongoing, with three people facing preliminary charges related to his passing. His unexpected and untimely loss has resonated deeply with fans and colleagues, as Payne’s warm presence and generosity left an undeniable legacy.
Aside from Ora’s tribute, the 2024 EMAs celebrated other notable winners, including Taylor Swift for Best Artist, Raye as Best UK & Ireland Act, Sabrina Carpenter for Best Song with “Espresso,” Benson Boone as Best New Artist, and Tyla for Best R&B. Yet, it was Ora’s moving words and Payne’s memory that left the most lasting impression on attendees and fans worldwide.
Don’t forget to stream and give Liam’s final single, ‘Teardrops’, a listen—honouring his voice and spirit through his musical legacy!