Nine months after the heartbreaking loss of Liam Payne, singer Rita Ora has opened up about the deep emotional impact his passing continues to have on her, saying she “still feels” his presence in her life.
The Let You Love Me hitmaker, who collaborated with Liam on the chart-topping 2018 duet For You from the Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack, shared the poignant revelation during a recent interview, describing her enduring connection to the late One Direction star as something “spiritual” and “impossible to explain.”
“Liam was one of those rare souls,” Rita said softly. “So warm, so full of light. We had a real creative chemistry, but more than that, we had a friendship. Even now, I still feel him with me — especially when I’m on stage or in the studio. It’s like he never really left.”
Liam Payne tragically passed away in Argentina in November 2024 while on tour, sending shockwaves across the entertainment world and plunging fans into mourning. The news left his former bandmates, fellow artists, and millions of supporters heartbroken. Rita, who performed For You with Liam on several major stages and award shows, was among the first to post a tribute following his death, calling him “a true gentleman” and “a beautiful heart.”
In her new interview, Rita reflected on the recording sessions they shared:
“We laughed a lot. We talked about everything — music, family, love, fear. He was thoughtful, kind, and so incredibly talented. There was a sensitivity in Liam that you don’t often find in this industry.”
Rita went on to describe how Liam’s death changed the way she approaches her own music and life:
“Losing him reminded me how fragile all of this is. I don’t take moments for granted anymore. When I sing For You now, it’s for him. Every time.”
Fans of both artists have continued to revisit their duet, which now carries a heartbreaking layer of emotional resonance. The music video, once celebrated for its sweeping romance and elegance, has become a cherished reminder of Liam’s magnetism, vocals, and the bond he and Rita shared.
A Friendship Built on Respect
Though Liam and Rita were never romantically linked, their professional collaboration blossomed into a deep mutual respect and affection. Industry insiders often described their dynamic as one of true artistic harmony — effortless and sincere.
In the months following Liam’s passing, Rita remained largely private, but fans noticed subtle tributes — from dedicating performances to him, to wearing a pendant he once gave her. This recent admission marks the first time she has spoken so candidly about her ongoing grief.
An Echo That Won’t Fade
Rita’s heartfelt words echo what so many who knew Liam have said in the months since his untimely passing — that he was more than a star. He was a loyal friend, a dedicated father, a loving son, and an artist who gave his all to those around him.
“I don’t think I’ll ever stop feeling Liam,” Rita added. “Some people leave a mark so deep, it stays with you forever.”
As fans continue to celebrate Liam Payne’s life, legacy, and music, stories like Rita’s offer a tender reminder that while he’s no longer here in body, his spirit still moves through the hearts of those who knew and loved him — and through every note of the music he left behind.
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