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While working on Building the Band, Liam Payne found himself reflecting on his One Direction journey in a heartfelt way.
In the ninth episode of the Netflix reality series, released on Wednesday, July 23, the singer offered advice to the band Midnight 'Til Morning as they prepared for their semi-final performance. The group, made up of Conor Smith, Mason Watts, Shane Appell, and Zach Newbould, felt especially connected to Payne due to his past experience as part of a global boy band.
"Having a One Direction boy there, I want him to see the potential that we have the most because he's who we connect with the most," Smith said in a confessional before Payne entered their rehearsal space.
"You're all going to be on separate stages this week. But I need to feel that connection between you guys. And you need to make that stage your own," Payne told them during rehearsal. He encouraged the band to work as a unit and amplify their presence. "This is your week to really sell it to the room. Do it together, look at each other, reference each other, but then also just be bigger," he said. "I've got a soft spot for you guys. Don't let me down."
The group performed Post Malone's "Circles," a song Newbould shared they immediately felt connected to. After the performance, Payne reaffirmed his fondness for the band, saying, "I've got a very big soft spot for you boys."
He went on to draw comparisons between the group and his early days in One Direction. "You remind me a lot of what we were when we were on the show," said Payne, referencing his start on The X Factor in 2010.
Recognizing the talent on the show, he acknowledged the group's challenges: "There's a lot of strong singers, a lot of tricks and choreography, and it's hard. But the energy in here tonight is the happiest I've seen you. You look like you're loving what you're doing."
Despite their strong showing, Midnight 'Til Morning ended up in the bottom two alongside Soulidified. Judges Payne, Nicole Scherzinger, and Kelly Rowland ultimately chose Soulidified to advance to the finale.
Reflecting on his bond with Payne, host AJ McLean said they grew close during filming. He praised Payne's unreleased solo work and hoped fans would one day get to hear it.
