Nicole Scherzinger pays tribute to late singer

Paying tribute to the late singer, Nicole Scherzinger said she will “forever cherish and treasure the time she spent with Liam Payne.”

“It's so hard to process that you're no longer here, but I'm grateful to have known your kind heart, sweet soul and character,” Scherzinger wrote on Instagram.

Scherzinger, of course, famously played a role in the formation of One Direction X Factor UKwhere she served as a judge. In footage released a few years ago to mark the band's 12th anniversary, Scherzinger and Simon Cowell can be seen looking through photos of potential members. At one point, Cowell even suggested that Payne move to another possible group, which Scherzinger rejected.

“He may actually be the leader,” she said at the time.

In her tribute, Scherzinger recalled the moment “fifteen years ago when One Direction was born” as well as the pair's recent work together on the Netflix series “a few weeks ago.” Building the band.

“It was a great blessing to work with you recently,” said Scherzinger. “We shared the same love and passion for music and I will always remember the meaningful and joyful conversations we had.”

Scherzinger concluded her note by saying, “You brought so much joy, light and laughter into the lives of those who truly knew you.” I will “miss” you, my friend, and carry you in my heart. My thoughts and prayers are with your family.”