Netflix is launching a new music competition this summer titled ‘Building the Band’. This series aims to discover and create the next big music group. The show holds significant emotional weight for many viewers. It features one of the final appearances of beloved former One Direction star, Liam Payne. Payne, who tragically passed away in October 2024 at the age of 31, served as a judge on the series. His involvement adds a poignant layer to the viewing experience. The show is set to premiere on Netflix starting July 9. It offers a unique twist on the traditional talent competition format, promising both compelling performances and human drama.
Discovering the Next Great Group
‘Building the Band’ distinguishes itself from other singing contests immediately. The initial rounds feature contestants competing individually. However, there’s a crucial difference: they are placed in separate booths. From these booths, singers must choose potential bandmates. Their decisions are based only on vocal talent and perceived musical chemistry. They cannot see the other contestants at this stage. This blind selection process creates six brand new groups.
Once these groups are formed, the real twist unfolds. The newly created bands meet face-to-face for the very first time. This initial reveal is designed to introduce potential conflict and drama. Suddenly, factors like physical appearance, stage presence, and style come into play. The challenge then becomes making these diverse individuals gel quickly. They must prepare performances together for the judging panel. The competition proceeds with bands battling head-to-head. Ultimately, only one group will be crowned the winner. Unlike some shows offering ambiguous label deals, ‘Building the Band’ provides a cash prize. This allows the winning group to maintain control over their future path.
Expert Judges and Mentors
The series boasts a panel of judges and a host with deep roots in the music industry. Guiding the contestants and emceeing the show is AJ McLean. McLean is a member of the iconic group Backstreet Boys. He also offers valuable mentorship to the aspiring artists.
The judging panel features three accomplished figures. Nicole Scherzinger, known for her work with the Pussycat Dolls, brings extensive competition experience. She previously judged ‘The X Factor’. Interestingly, Scherzinger was famously involved in the formation of One Direction on that very show. Joining her is Kelly Rowland. Rowland rose to fame with Destiny’s Child and has also judged ‘The Voice U.K.’. The third judge is Liam Payne. His personal journey, from solo auditionee to global band phenomenon, made him a uniquely qualified mentor. These industry veterans provide critique and guidance. They aim to help the contestants navigate the complexities of group dynamics and performance.
Liam Payne’s Poignant Final Role
Liam Payne’s presence on ‘Building the Band’ is particularly significant. It represents one of his final professional projects before his untimely death. Payne served as a judge and mentor on the show. His participation feels like a full circle moment. He first auditioned as a solo artist for ‘The X Factor’ in 2010. It was on that show that he, alongside Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, Niall Horan, and Zayn Malik, were grouped by judges, including Nicole Scherzinger, to form One Direction.
Working on ‘Building the Band’ allowed Liam to share the vast knowledge he gained from his meteoric rise to fame. Co-stars and producers have shared heartwarming reflections on their time working with him. AJ McLean grew close to Liam during filming. He noted their similar experiences navigating fame and personal challenges. McLean described Liam as an “absolute sweetheart” and a “light that lit up every room.” He expressed hope that the series would showcase the “best version of him.” According to Nicole Scherzinger, Liam “shines” in the series. She recalled his “kind, caring heart” and insightful advice. Executive producer Cat Lawson called Payne a “glorious person.” She stated that everyone involved “loved him” and found him “amazing” on the show.
A Family’s Blessing and Touching Tributes
The decision to air ‘Building the Band’ following Liam Payne’s death was handled with sensitivity. Netflix confirmed that Liam’s family reviewed the series. They fully supported its release. His parents, Geoff and Karen Payne, were reportedly present on set during filming. They gave their blessing for his portrayal. They shared the powerful sentiment that airing the show is “how we want everyone to remember Liam.”
Liam’s sisters have also shared their emotional reactions. His sister Nicola Payne expressed immense pride in the show and Liam’s part in it. She shared that watching the series in recent months helped her family “still feel close” to him. It allowed them to see him “at his best.” His sister Ruth Gibbons echoed this feeling of immeasurable pride. She spoke heartbreakingly about Liam not being able to see how “great he is in this show.” AJ McLean emphasized how “very, very, very important” the family’s support was to the production team. This ensures Liam is represented positively.
The show itself includes a dedication to Liam Payne. Host AJ McLean delivers a solemn tribute at the series opening. He acknowledges the unexpected loss and highlights Liam’s passion for music. McLean states Liam’s presence demonstrates his deep love for music and commitment to helping others. The series stands as a testament to his legacy and his final contribution to the music world as a mentor.
The circumstances of Liam Payne’s death in October 2024 were widely reported. He died in Buenos Aires after falling from a hotel balcony. While this context is the reason ‘Building the Band’ became his final project, the focus of the series and his portrayal within it center on his life, talent, and mentorship.
‘Building the Band’ Release Schedule
Viewers eager to watch Liam Payne’s final project and discover the next music group can tune into Netflix this July. The series will be released in three parts over consecutive weeks.
Episodes 1-4: Available starting July 9
Episodes 5-7: Available starting July 16
- Episodes 8-10: Available starting July 23
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The show promises an engaging format. It combines the thrill of talent discovery with unique human dynamics. Liam Payne’s thoughtful contributions as a judge are highlighted by his co-stars. His final appearance offers fans and new viewers a chance to see his passion for music and mentorship on display. The support from his family ensures this project serves as a fitting part of his lasting memory.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Netflix’s ‘Building the Band’ show about?
‘Building the Band’ is a new Netflix music competition series. Its goal is to find and form a new successful music group. The show features a unique initial phase. Contestants audition and choose potential bandmates from separate booths based only on audio. They meet face-to-face only after the initial groups are formed. The series follows these groups as they prepare and compete for a cash prize.
When does ‘Building the Band’ premiere on Netflix and how many episodes are there?
The series ‘Building the Band’ premieres on Netflix on July 9. It consists of a total of 10 episodes. The episodes will be released in three installments over consecutive weeks. The first four episodes (1-4) drop on July 9. Episodes 5-7 become available on July 16. The final episodes (8-10) are released on July 23.
Why is Liam Payne’s appearance on ‘Building the Band’ considered his final project, and did his family support its release?
Liam Payne’s appearance on ‘Building the Band’ is considered one of his final projects because he tragically passed away in October 2024, after filming wrapped. His role as a judge was completed before his death. Netflix confirmed that Liam’s family reviewed the series after his passing. His parents and sisters gave their full support for the show’s release. They felt it was important for viewers to see him in this positive role, which demonstrated his passion for music and mentoring.
The show offers a chance to witness Liam Payne’s final work in a field he knew intimately. With a unique concept, experienced judges, and a heartfelt backstory, ‘Building the Band’ is set to be a notable addition to Netflix’s reality content. It serves as a tribute to Liam Payne’s legacy in music and as a mentor.
