Liam Payne was reportedly dropped by his music label just days before his death as he struggled to make it as a solo artist.
Payne was represented by Universal Records after first signing with its subsidiary Capitol Records in July 2016 — but was recently axed by the major label, multiple sources told the Daily Mail.
“Liam’s advance was massive and he didn’t recoup [it],” one source told the outlet. “Out of all the One Direction boys, Liam was on the wrong path musically.”
The singer’s public relations representative also dropped him, resigning earlier this month, according to the publication.
The former One Direction member plunged to his death from a third-floor hotel balcony in Argentina on Wednesday. He was 31.
Universal Music Group posted a tribute to the singer on social media after the news of his death.
“We are devastated by the tragic passing of Liam Payne. His legacy will live on through his music and the countless fans he inspired and who adored him,” the company wrote. “We send our deepest condolences to Liam’s family and loved ones.”
Payne was reportedly “acting erratic” in the lobby of the CasaSur Palermo Hotel in Buenos Aires before his death. Bystanders said he smashed his laptop and had to be carried back to his hotel room while the hotel manager frantically called 911 worried that the pop star — who he said was under the influence of drugs and alcohol — could hurt himself or worse.
“We need you to send someone urgently because, well, I don’t know if this guest’s life is at risk. They must be in a room that has a balcony,” the hotel manager told the emergency dispatcher. “And well, we’re a little bit worried he’ll do something, that he’ll put his life at risk.”
It’s not clear if Payne’s death was intentional or accidental, but Security Ministry of Buenos Aires representative Pablo Policicchio declared that the musician “had thrown himself from the balcony of his room.”
The dad of one fractured his skull upon impact and is believed to have died instantly, according to medical officials. His body will soon undergo a complete autopsy.
Payne leaves behind his 7-year-old son Bear, with his ex Cheryl Cole.