Liam Payne's producer pal has hit out at those accusing him of profiting from Liam Payne's posthumous single.
Sam Pounds, the Grammy-winning producer who was set to release a single with Liam before his tragic death, has slammed fans accusing him of trying to cash in on the tragedy. The track, titled Do No Wrong, was scheduled for release on Friday (November 1), but it's now been delayed.
Sam insists the decision was made out of respect for the grieving family of the One Direction star and that he intended for any proceeds from the single to be donated to a charity chosen by them. The producer said it wasn't the right time to release the song.
READ MORE: Horrifying moment Liam Payne fell to his death from balcony 'caught on video'
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In a statement on X, he wrote: "Today I'm deciding to hold 'Do No Wrong' and leave those liberties up to all family members. I want all proceeds go to a charity of their choosing (or however they desire).
"Even though we all love the song it's not the time yet. We are all still mourning the passing of Liam and I want the family to morn in peace and in prayer. We will all wait. With love Sam Pounds."
It came after backlash from fans over the initial decision to release the track so soon after the singer's death earlier this month. But now Sam has blasted those criticising him over the single in a lengthy post on Instagram, where he argued the song was supposed to be a "beautiful tribute" to the One Direction star and nothing to do with money.
He wrote: "The narrative SOME of yall (NOT ALL) are pushing is complete garbage and nonsense (with no true discernment)." Sam continued: "Where was everyone at when 'they' were bullying him on TikTok and now trying to do the same to me? Huh? Where were YOU when the media was trying to tarnish his legacy? Huh? Did you have the power to change the narrative. NO."
Defending his decision to release the track, Sam said: "I wanted to at least highlight and point the attention to the music and memories WE created. Our duet. Our moment. A moment of pure happiness and joy. WE LOVED MUSIC and at times THIS INDUSTRY DON'T LET US SHARE IT.
"Don't forget or have amnesia. Liam wanted yall to hear our music. He had so many happy, amazing and optimistic ideas. The audio to D.N.W (live mix) was already leaked.", reports the Mirror.
He continued: "Yall really tried to turn this beautiful tribute into a 'money' thing. The internet doesn't have to be a breeding ground for negativity! Also, yall know a leaked track of the live mix is going around. Of course with all TRIBUTES the money goes to the family. With genuine ppl THAT'S THE OBVIOUS and most natural thing to do!".
"Don't ever disrespect me, especially when you don't know ANYTHING. Calm down and pray and continue to show love for Liam and get his music to number 1 and comfort the family. Where was everyone at when 'they' were bullying him on TikTok and now trying to do the same to me? Huh? Where were YOU when the media was trying to tarnish his legacy? Huh?
"Did you have the power to change the narrative. NO." Sam urged everyone: "Stop feeding negativity RIGHT NOW! Don't let the negative voices influence your mind! It's truly some kind people out here that are real, loving and a safe space.
"I'm thankful I get create with some of the greatest daily. It sucks to have to defend myself as I continue to mourn both Liam and my grandmother. God's power will prevail. Some of yall nasty spirits and words WILL NOT tarnish the original energy behind my moment in time with Liam that I invited you all to witness. I'll keep the memories to myself and close family and friends because with them it won't ever be misread or misunderstood.
"Lastly, I'm a black church boy from the south!Here in the south we celebrate and bring comfort through musical tributes of all kinds. That's one of the ways we culturally show love. Some of you are so far away from culture it's hard for you to recognise real ones in your own lives.
He concluded: "Love thy neighbour, stop fighting amongst each other and be advocates for truth and peace. Be blessed and stay blessed.
Liam tragically died aged 31 on October 16 after he fell from a hotel balcony in Argentina. Liam leaves behind his seven year old son Bear who he shares with singer Cheryl.
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