Liam Payne Reflects on Inspiration from One Direction

Liam Payne appeared genuinely pleased when he learned how he and his bandmates from One Direction influenced a contestant on Building the Band to pursue a boy band career. The singer, who tragically passed away at 31 last October, received a heartfelt shoutout from Mason, a member of the band Midnight Til Morning, after their performance.

Mason shared a touching story: “When I was about 11, my family won tickets from Australia—my sisters really admired you. We sat front row at Madison Square Garden during your Up All Night tour. Since then, I wanted to be in a group.”

He added, “It’s a full-circle moment to be on stage performing in front of you. Thank you, man.”

Payne, visibly moved, responded with a wave and a cheeky, “Hi, sisters!” The moment resonated with him, especially since Mason’s story coincided with One Direction’s sold-out Madison Square Garden show in December 2012. The connection seemed to leave Payne feeling warm and nostalgic.

fellow judge Kelly Rowland noted that Payne’s words offered valuable advice. Mason’s sentiment sparked laughter when Backstreet Boys member AJ McLean teased, “He told me the same thing once, so I get it!”

Throughout the show, Midnight Til Morning performed a spirited cover of “Iris” by the Goo Goo Dolls, notable for a backflip reminiscent of Benson Boone. Payne critiqued the acrobatics, suggesting that while impressive, they felt a bit out of place for the serious song.

He explained, “We’re great dancers—just look at One Direction. Sometimes, simple control is powerful. George Michael’s solo arena control is a perfect example. You don’t need big moves if your performance is focused.”

Rowland agreed, calling Payne’s advice “the perfect guidance” for the band, and Payne expressed his willingness to share those insights anytime. Building the Band is available on Netflix on Wednesdays.