Rita Ora honours Liam Payne during her Japan concert hours after news of his death

Rita Ora held back tears as she performed a heartfelt tribute to Liam Payne, who tragically passed away on October 16 after falling from a three-story balcony at a hotel in Buenos Aires, Argentina.

Ora was on stage at Zepp Namba in Osaka, Japan, just hours after the news of Payne’s death broke. While singing ‘For You,’ her 2018 collaboration with Payne from the Fifty Shades Freed soundtrack, she paused to give an emotional tribute, honouring the late musician.

‘I can’t even sing this right now,’ she told the audience, covering her face with her hands. As a photo of her and Payne appeared on the screen behind her, she moved closer to the crowd, urging them to sing along for her.

Later, she took to social media to share a heartfelt remembrance, expressing her gratitude for the One Direction member and reflecting on the tragedy of his sudden passing.

‘I’m devastated. He had the kindest soul, I will never forget,’ she wrote.

‘I loved working with him so much – he was just such a joy to be around on and off stage. This tragic news breaks my heart. Sending all my love and prayers to his family and loved ones. Our song For You takes on a whole new meaning for me now. R.I.P,’ she added.

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Payne passed away at the age of 31 after falling from a balcony. He had been in Argentina for the past few weeks, where he reunited with his One Direction bandmate Niall Horan at one of his shows. He was accompanied by his girlfriend, Kate Cassidy, who had returned to the United States just two days before his death.

Meanwhile, Liam Payne's former One Direction bandmates issued a joint statement, saying they are "completely devastated" about the passing of their fellow band member.

In a statement signed by Louis Tomlinson, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan and Harry Styles they said: "In time, and when everyone is able to, there will be more to say".

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