One Direction breaking up? Group may need a break, says Liam Payne

One Direction's Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Liam Payne, and Louis Tomlinson Facebook/ One Direction

With a string of chart toppers, back-to-back world tours, and strong social media presence, One Direction has certainly made their mark in the music industry. However, even the most successful acts may need a break every once in a while, as group member Liam Payne said in a recent interview that he, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and Harry Styles may be ready to take some time out to work on individual interests. 

During an interview with Free radio, as quoted by Mirror, Payne said, "You know, I think everyone needs a little bit of a break now, and sit and stop, to kind of take in all the great things that've happened." 

Payne's admission comes two months after rumors swirled that the band would be taking a breather to work on separate projects. Even Simon Cowell thinks that the boys may be ready to take a break. Last month, the One Direction mentor spoke to The Sun and said that the band has enough hits now that they can take some time off to do other things that they wish to do. 

"Then I hope they'll have a little bit of time apart and want to get back together again. It's a fun job, but it's absolutely their decision," said Cowell. 

Rumors sparked that One Direction may soon disband after Zayn Malik left the group back in March, and in a statement, he said he left because he wanted to be a "normal 22-year old." Soon after Malik made the shocking announcement, rumors broke that he was about to embark on a solo career. Last week, the former boy band member announced via Twitter that he has signed as a solo artist with RCA records. 

Following Malik's departure, One Direction continued touring as a four-man group.

When asked what he plans to do during his time off from the group, Payne said that he's looking forward to writing music for other artists.

"I've been doing a lot of things, you know, trying to get into the producing side of it which is pretty cool," said Payne. 

Meanwhile, Tomlinson may also be in need of a break from the spotlight as he is expecting a child with his good friend Briana Jungwirth. 

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