Zayn Malik opened his Stairway to the Sky tour on an emotional note, honoring his late bandmate Liam Payne during the first show. The 31-year-old singer took the stage at the O2 Academy Leeds on Saturday night (November 23), delivering a performance that left fans moved and reflective.
At the end of the night, after Zayn had exited the stage, a heartfelt message appeared on the screen:
“Liam Payne 1993-2024 Love you bro 💗”
The tribute was simple yet powerful, showing Zayn’s love and respect for his former One Direction bandmate, who tragically passed away earlier this year. The message resonated deeply with fans in the audience.
Originally, Zayn’s Stairway to the Sky tour was set to kick off last month. However, he made the decision to delay the start of the tour to mourn Liam’s loss. The rescheduled opening show was not just a celebration of Zayn’s music but also a moment to honor Liam’s memory.
Last week, Zayn reunited with his One Direction bandmates Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, and Niall Horan at Liam’s funeral. The reunion, though somber, served as a reminder of the deep bond the group shared despite their years apart.
Zayn has rarely spoken about his time in One Direction in recent years, but his gesture on opening night proved that some connections run too deep to be forgotten.
Zayn’s performance at the O2 Academy Leeds marked his return to the stage, showcasing his growth as an artist and his ability to channel raw emotion into his work. Fans left the venue not only praising his setlist but also reflecting on the love and camaraderie that defined his tribute to Liam.
While the night was bittersweet, it set the tone for a tour that promises to be heartfelt and unforgettable. With Zayn leading the way, Stairway to the Sky is poised to be more than just a musical experience—it’s a journey of healing and remembrance.
