One Direction’s Liam Payne announced plans to go solo on Wednesday after signing a deal to join Capitol Records UK.
The 22-year-old artist made his announcement on Twitter citing new management and the company’s history of top performers.
“Capitol Records has an amazing history stretching right back before even Frank Sinatra and I'm really looking forward to becoming part of their story,” Payne wrote in a statement. “One Direction will always be my family; I'm now excited to show what I can do as a solo artist.”
Capitol Records UK president Nick Raphael said that his label is “incredibly excited" to be working with Liam.
"It’s not often you get the chance to sign such a talented and ambitious 22-year-old who has already conquered the world,” Raphael said in a statement.
Zayn was the first member to leave One Direction and recently released his debut album Mind of Mine in March. Harry Styles has also moved on from the group to pursue an acting career.
“One direction will always be my home and family,” Payne wrote on Twitter, “but I’m very excited to see what this chapter brings.”
