Nine months after Liam Payne’s tragic passing, Rita Ora is keeping her close friend’s memory alive through the power of music.
Appearing on Elvis Duran and the Morning Show, the 34-year-old singer opened up about her deep bond with the late One Direction star, describing him as “a really great friend” and revealing how their duet “For You” has become a personal tribute.
“That’s a really great friend of mine,” Rita said. “I still sort of feel him anyway, so it’s fine.”
“For You” Keeps Him Close
Rita and Liam famously collaborated on the 2018 hit “For You”, featured on the Fifty Shades Freedsoundtrack. The song, filled with emotional intensity, now holds new meaning for Rita.
“I have the last song that I think we did together as a duo and I sing it all the time. And it just feels like he’s right there,” she shared.
“We always do a cute little moment of a photo of him, and it feels fantastic to feel like he’s still around through music.”
She added, “That’s why music is so powerful. It brings back a person, a memory, a feeling. I’ll always have that memory with him.”
Remembering Liam Payne
Liam Payne passed away unexpectedly in Argentina nine months ago, shortly after filming his final project, the Netflix series Building the Band. The first four episodes premiered on July 9, with the final three set to stream on July 23.
Rita confirmed she’ll be watching.
“I 100% will watch it.”
Their friendship went beyond studio sessions. Rita and Liam shared the stage at the 2018 BRIT Awards, and she later paid an emotional tribute during her hosting duties at the MTV EMAs a month after his death.
“Liam Payne was one of the kindest people I knew,” she said on air, holding back tears.
“He put so much joy into every room he walked in. He left such a mark on this world.”
A Friendship That Transcended Fame
Before her EMA tribute, a source told The Sun that Rita had been “devastated” by Liam’s passing.
“She and Liam have been close for years and grew in the industry together.”
Their friendship was built on mutual respect, shared experiences, and genuine connection — something Rita continues to carry with her today.
Through every performance of For You, every photo moment, and every shared memory, Rita Ora ensures that Liam Payne’s legacy lives on — not just as a global pop icon, but as a dear friend who made a lasting impact.
