We are heartbroken. Liam will forever live in our hearts and we’ll remember him for his kind, funny, and brave soul,” A statement from Payne’s family read. “We are supporting each other the best we can as a family and ask for privacy and space at this awful time.“

In the early days of One Direction's world-dominating stardom, Liam Payne, who died Wednesday at the age of 31, was known as the ringleader of the teenage quintet. As a teen, Zayn Malik was too shy to deliver the high notes he's known for today,

Before his solo career, Liam Payne was one of 1D's prolific writers. These are some of his best songs from each album, including "Story of My Life."