At a recent interview at Soho House in Mumbai, American singer-songwriter and one-half of Foster The People, Mark Foster mentioned the death of Liam Payne when asked about his advice to his 10-years-ago-self. This was Foster’s first return to India in over a decade, a very short one, only for a private intimate gig.
To answer the question, Foster mentioned that his advice to his old self would be to enjoy each moment as they pass by too quickly and we are never prepared for that. Artists who face “early success” are under immense pressure. This makes them easily equate their worth with metrics like streaming numbers or album sales. Foster mentioned how with the praise, comes the criticism and how crucial it is for an artist to stay grounded.
“Fame can really mess with your head. I think about artists like Chapel Rowan, who’s facing that whirlwind of attention now. It’s a cautionary tale—you can’t prepare for everyone wanting a piece of you overnight. Fame can have serious mental health consequences, and it’s something we don’t talk about enough.”
This was what brought about the context of Liam Payne. Foster mentioned him talking to his wife about his story, the day he passed away.
Also read: Liam Payne Passes Away Following Fatal Fall at Buenos Aires Hotel
“There should be therapists dedicated to helping people navigate the psychological toll of fame,” says Foster while talking of Liam Payne
“Fame can literally shorten your life—it’s intense, and it gets in your head. Liam was so young when One Direction blew up, maybe 16 or 17, and he passed in his early 30s. Your brain isn’t even fully developed until 25, so experiencing that level of intensity can be overwhelming. It makes you question if the best part of your life is already behind you,” said Foster.
The American indie-pop icon went on to talk about how important it is for an artist to evolve, find balance as well as find joy in other things. According to Mark Foster the issue calls for dedicated therapists who can help “navigate the psychological toll of fame”. He continued about how the topic doesn’t get the attention it deserves. He also added how this is so necessary for surviving in the entertainment industry.
Foster the People’s latest and fourth studio album, Paradise State of Mind released via Atlantic Records on August, 16th, marks a significant evolution in their sound and philosophy. Check out their tour dates here!
