The music world is mourning the loss of Liam Payne, and stars are speaking out about the need for better welfare support within the industry.
Radio presenter Jo Whiley and Little Mix singer Perrie Edwards are leading the charge, advocating for change to protect young artists.
Jo Whiley reflected on the sadness surrounding Liam’s death, saying, “We all felt we’d let him down… It was palpable. You could feel the shock and despair of everyone.” She emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental health, adding, “We should always have been looking after the musicians.”
Whiley criticized reality TV shows like The X Factor, calling them “cruel” and highlighting the immense pressure they put on contestants. “They’re so cruel, aren’t they?… The pressure that they put on people is just too, too much.”
Perrie Edwards, who achieved fame through The X Factor, echoed Whiley’s concerns. “I wouldn’t be mad if it was law” for under 18s not to join the music industry, she said. Edwards emphasized the need for better support systems, stating, “I just wish there was a lot more accessible to them when it comes to looking after their welfare.”
Edwards shared her advice for young aspiring artists: “Try and keep very grounded. Keep people around you who you trust more than anything… Have an inner circle and keep that circle tight.”
Perrie has spoken openly about her own struggles with fame, revealing she sometimes brings a therapist to work to cope with panic attacks. “Fame has an awful and dark side to it,” she said.
At the Music Industry Trusts Award (MITS), Chairman & CEO of Sony Music UK & Ireland Jason Iley MBE received the top honor, presented by Paloma Faith. Iley expressed gratitude, saying, “I feel truly honoured, grateful, and thankful.”
The music industry’s call to action comes after Liam Payne’s tragic death, sparking a necessary conversation about welfare and support.
