Celebrating Liam Payne and One Direction's phenomenal legacy with these 5 songs

The tragic passing of Liam Payne has enveloped the world in sorrow, rendering many of us speechless at the shocking news. Still blooming in this solo career, the former One Direction member departed from his loved ones at the youthful age of 31.

Grief hardly gets easier over time, but a life lived is always worth celebrating. Let's take a step back and look at how Liam won the hearts of his fans during his time as a member of the famed band. Here are five melancholic tracks in remembrance of his contributions to the success of One Direction.

'Don’t Forget Where You Belong'

No better opener to this list than a song that begins and ends with Liam's soothing vocals. This track reminds us to always be true to our roots, as was Liam who only recently attended former bandmate Niall Horan's concert as a supportive, long-time friend. In this song, he does emphasise on not having a clear sense of identity, but we know that's not true. As a vow to the outro, this song will never be forgotten and neither will Liam.

'Story Of My Life'

A song that confronts difficult emotions coupled with a music video that looks back on lost time is sure to leave hearts devastated. No one could have imagined that Liam would become a memory told in pictures like the ones he recreates in the music video. But this poignant song unknowingly offers a graceful way to embrace the pain. Nostalgia is an ever-changing emotional experience; there's closure in every crevice of its truth.

'You And I'

This lulling track is for those much-needed unproductive moments when you don't feel like doing anything. Let this be your reminder that it's okay to feel as if time is not moving along. You need not blame yourself for processing difficult periods. Take this time to rest and face the grief you can't swallow. One day, it might go easy on you. But for that to happen someday, you must stop running from it today.

'Change My Mind'

At times, life feels purposeless, as if all sense of direction has abandoned you, as if reluctance poisons your every move. This song reminds us that it's perfectly alright to be fearful and uncertain while also making bold choices to seek out comfort for oneself. You are aching to do something different after dragged moments of inactivity, and if you feel that's the best course of action for you, why not explore it? Maybe you'll make mistakes, but even that is a way forward.

'Little Things'

Take a few minutes to absorb a song that's easy on the soul. This one reminds you of everything good that can be extracted from a low moment. It's natural to be unable to find light in an endless tunnel, but there's always an exit. All you need to get to it is a guiding hand, and this melody is eager to serve that purpose. Your sorrows may be strong, but they make you human, they foster love somewhere deep within.

Liam's unexpected loss has coloured these songs with a different meaning. The nostalgia associated with One Direction's reign over the industry will never be the same, but that shouldn't stop us from celebrating that it came to pass, and that Liam has left a significant mark on it. Through this shining legacy, he will be remembered forevermore.

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