Liam Payne’s dance to “Strip That Down,” his debut solo single, gained significant attention for its catchy beat and accompanying choreography. Released in 2017, the song marked Payne’s transition from being part of One Direction to establishing his identity as a solo artist. The music video and live performances showcased sleek, modern dance moves that highlighted the song’s club vibe and Payne’s personal growth in the music industry.
The choreography in the music video, directed by Emil Nava, blends urban dance styles with smooth transitions that align with the track’s sensual tone. Payne worked with professional dancers to create a dynamic visual experience, with moves that emphasize confidence and rhythm. This performance style reflects the lyrics, which talk about shedding old identities and stepping into a new persona.
During live performances, Payne often added improvisation to his choreography, adapting to the energy of the audience. For example, on shows like The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon and at festivals, his stage presence included not only the signature moves from the music video but also engaging crowd interaction. This flexibility highlighted his ability as both a performer and a dancer.
“Strip That Down” also became notable for Payne’s collaboration with Quavo from Migos, who added a hip-hop flavor to the track. The partnership brought a fusion of pop and rap that was mirrored in the choreography’s mix of styles. The dance moves aimed to appeal to a wide audience, blending mainstream accessibility with a nod to contemporary street dance.
The track and its choreography were well-received, establishing Payne as a capable solo artist post-One Direction. The success of “Strip That Down” was also reflected in its chart performance, peaking at number three on the UK Singles Chart and entering the top 10 in several countries. The dance routines associated with the song remain a memorable part of Payne’s artistic journey.
