Trailing the news that pop culture, boy-band phenomenon, One Direction, will go on hiatus in 2016, Liam Payne came to the rescue to ensure directioners of the band's future, claiming that he will in fact, be working with Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson and Niall Horan again.
The decision to go their separate ways was made months after former One Direction member Zayn Malik severed ties with the group he shared his rise to fame with. In an interview with UK magazine attitude, Payne dismissed the idea that the hiatus is a cover for the band's ultimate split up.
"I realise now this is the time to start branching out and exploring," Payne explained, via NME. "This won't last forever, and there will be a point when we will break off and do our own things, but... we will work together again."
A lot of people say to me, 'Oh, you'll go solo,' but I haven't thought about that. If the right song comes along and I think I should sing it, then I will release it as a solo artist. Otherwise, I'm happy being behind the scenes. When the others boys [in the group] go solo, I would love to write songs for them. I want to make great music that people want to listen to," he added.
Payne also detailed the recent allegations of homophobia following certain comments he made on tour. While introducing the song "Girl Almighty," the 22-year-old singer said "This is my favourite song off the last album, and it is about trying to find that number one woman of your life, which none of you can relate to, 'cause most of you are girls. Except for the boys in here, you know what I'm talking about."
After receiving criticisms over the remarks, Payne quickly denied homophobic intentions explaining how he doesn't view people for their sexuality. "I actually find it funny that being gay is still something that's talked about as though it's not natural. I mean, I don't go around saying, 'Oh, this guy is gay.' I don't make a big deal about it. I will just say, 'This is my mate.' My mates are my mates, regardless of their sexuality." He also addressed the popular fan rumor concerning Harry and Louis being secret lovers, calling it "absolutely nuts."
According to Daily Mail, tons of fans disagreed with the way Payne handled the interview.
It's funny I thought people appreciated honesty these days
— Liam (@Real_Liam_Payne) September 10, 2015
One Direction released their surprise single, "Drag Me Down," last month, while their fifth studio album is due out Christmas, regardless of the band's decision against touring.
