Godwin ObajeLiam Payne is honoured in a moving tribute at the beginning of the brand-new Netflix series Building The Band, marking one of the final appearances of the late singer, who passed away last October.
The former One Direction star features as a guest judge in the 10-part music competition, which was filmed prior to his tragic death at the age of 31. Payne appears from episode seven onward, with his involvement now taking on a poignant new meaning for fans and viewers.
The series, described as a cross between The Voice and Love Is Blind, sees aspiring musicians form bands without ever seeing each other. Participants must rely purely on musical chemistry, vocal compatibility, and talent, as they sit in separate booths while auditioning one another.
Ahead of the series launch, which begins streaming from 9 July, host AJ McLean of the Backstreet Boys opens the first episode with a heartfelt tribute to Payne.
“When we came together to film Building The Band, we never imagined we’d soon be saying goodbye to our friend, Liam Payne,” McLean says in a touching on-camera message. “Liam is a guest judge in later episodes and through his presence we see his deep love for music and his unwavering commitment to helping others find their voice. It is through that spirit that we dedicate this series to Liam and his family.”
The competition unfolds over 10 episodes, with new instalments released weekly. Contestants attempt to form the ultimate music group based on unseen auditions, seeking synergy in sound before image ever enters the equation. Only after bands are selected do contestants meet and begin developing their visual identity, choreography, and group dynamic.
Joining the judging panel alongside Payne are fellow global pop icons Nicole Scherzinger of the Pussycat Dolls and Destiny’s Child star Kelly Rowland. The combination of world-renowned artists brings star power and industry insight to the competition, while McLean oversees the show as its host.
Netflix has described the format as “a truly unique competition show where building the perfect band is all about chemistry.” The official synopsis reads: “The singers are in complete control as they seek to form their very own bands in individual ‘booths’ without ever seeing each other. All they have to go on is musical compatibility, connection, chemistry and merit. What will happen when the bands finally meet, and looks, choreography, and style come into play?”
Payne’s participation in Building The Band is expected to be a powerful reminder of his legacy and his deep passion for nurturing new talent in the music industry.
The series premieres with four episodes on 9 July, with new episodes arriving each Wednesday thereafter.
Godwin Obaje
