The decision to release Liam Payne’s first posthumous single, “Do No Wrong,” faced significant backlash from fans and was ultimately shelved due to concerns over respect for the late singer’s family. Liam, a former member of One Direction, tragically passed away on October 16 after a fall from a balcony in Buenos Aires. Just weeks later, the announcement of the single’s release prompted an outcry, leading producer Sam Pounds to reconsider the timing and implications of such a move.
Industry experts have raised alarms about the potential financial repercussions for Liam’s family if the single were to be released without proper agreements in place. Celebrity PR specialist Kayley Cornelius noted that the rushed nature of the announcement likely meant that the record label did not consult the family regarding licensing rights or profit distribution. She emphasized that proceeding with the release could risk putting Liam’s loved ones in a financially precarious situation, potentially resulting in legal disputes.
Cornelius stated that the communication between the record label and Liam’s family seemed disjointed. She advocated for a collaborative approach to ensure that any posthumous projects genuinely honor Liam’s legacy. In Pounds’ announcement regarding the cancellation, he expressed a desire for the family’s wishes to be prioritized, indicating that all proceeds should be directed to a charity of their choice when they are ready.
Given the circumstances of his passing, it’s understandable that Liam’s family might choose to release his work at a later date, possibly in collaboration with a charitable organization that reflects their values. Cornelius highlighted that many families of high-profile figures take this route as a way to pay tribute while also supporting meaningful causes.
Ultimately, the timing and manner of any future release should respect the family’s needs and decisions, ensuring that Liam’s legacy is celebrated appropriately. As fans continue to mourn his loss, it remains to be seen how his family will choose to honor his memory and artistic contributions moving
forward.
