Netflix's groundbreaking reality television series, Building the Band, which premiered on July 9, 2025, holds a special place in the hearts of many, not least because it marks the final television project of former One Direction member, Liam Payne, who sadly passed away in October 2024. His family granted permission for the show to air, and it has since been dedicated in his memory.
Payne served as one of the expert judges on the show, alongside Backstreet Boys' AJ McLean (the host), former Destiny's Child member Kelly Rowland, and former Pussycat Dolls member Nicole Scherzinger. His role involved mentoring contestants and providing constructive criticism, often emphasizing the importance of onstage chemistry and unity within the newly formed groups.
One memorable moment that perfectly captured Payne's wit and humility occurred in Episode 7, during the "Showcases" round. The group Midnight 'Til Morning, composed of Conor, Mason, Shane, and Zach, performed a rousing rendition of the Goo Goo Dolls' "Iris". While their vocals were strong, their stage presence caught Liam's attention.
Payne didn't shy away from offering a playful critique...
...of their unchoreographed, "helter-skelter" movement. He told the four men, "We’re in power ballad. We’re looking for air grabs. Boy band central, baby". He even pointed out that Shane Appell's backflip "felt a tiny little bit misplaced".
When Shane attempted to explain that they were more instrumentalists than dancers, Liam Payne seized the opportunity for a cheeky retort, quipping,
"We’re amazing dancers, obviously, in One Direction. It’s what we’re known for".
This humorous remark highlighted the contrast between One Direction's more stationary stage presence and the "dance-machine boy bands" of an earlier generation, such as AJ McLean's Backstreet Boys.
Payne further illustrated his point by standing up and confidently swaying his hips side to side, comparing One Direction's ability to control an arena to George Michael, who could do so "from just standing center and literally just doing that".
This lighthearted exchange was a testament to Liam Payne's approachable mentoring style, which, along with Nicole Scherzinger's gentle encouragement, stood apart from the "sharp, cutting zingers" often associated with judges like Simon Cowell.
The show, designed as a "Making the Band x Love Is Blind mashup", prioritizes contestants' ability to form cohesive groups through genuine conversation and collaboration, rather than relying on producer influence.
His contributions to Building the Band leave behind a legacy of mentorship and good humor, remembered fondly by fans and fellow contestants alike.
Sources:
https://www.vulture.com/article/why-netflix-building-the-band-is-good.html
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Building_the_Band
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