Sam Pounds, the Grammy-winning producer and friend of the late Liam Payne with whom he recorded a single, has fiercely defended himself against claims that he was trying to profit from Payne’s death.

Initially set to release the collaboration titled “Do No Wrong” on Friday, November 1, he withdrew Liam’s song amidst fan outrage, opting instead to honor the grieving family and suggesting that proceeds go to a charity they choose.

Reacting to the backlash, Sam unleashed a heated defense on social media, writing: “The narrative SOME of yall (NOT ALL) are pushing is complete garbage and nonsense (with no true discernment).”

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He further called out the passive bystanders, questioning: “Where was everyone at when ‘they’ were bullying him on TikTok and now trying to do the same to me? Huh? Where were YOU when the media was trying to tarnish his legacy? Huh? Did you have the power to change the narrative. NO.”

In explaining his intention behind releasing the posthumous single, Sam reflected: “I wanted to at least highlight and point the attention to the music and memories WE created. Our duet. Our moment. A moment of pure happiness and joy.”

He added, “WE LOVED MUSIC and at times THIS INDUSTRY DON’T LET US SHARE IT. Don’t forget or have amnesia. Liam wanted yall to hear our music. He had so many happy, amazing and optimistic ideas. The audio to D.N.W (live mix) was already leaked.”

‘Yall really tried to turn this beautiful tribute into a ‘money’ thing. The internet doesn’t have to be a breeding ground for negativity! Also, yall know a leaked track of the live mix is going around. ‘Of course with all TRIBUTES the money goes to the family. With genuine ppl THAT’S THE OBVIOUS and most natural thing to do!”

He then launched into: ‘Don’t ever disrespect me, especially when you don’t know ANYTHING. Calm down and pray and continue to show love for Liam and get his music to number 1 and comfort the family.”

“I wanted to at least highlight and point the attention to the music and memories WE created[quote_full_stop] Our duet[quote_full_stop] Our moment[quote_full_stop] A moment of pure happiness and joy,” he continued.

Sam ended the post with: “Stop feeding negativity RIGHT NOW! Don’t let the negative voices influence your mind! It’s truly some kind people out here that are real, loving and a safe space. I’m thankful I get create with some of the greatest daily. “I wanted to at least highlight and point the attention to the music and memories WE created. Our duet. Our moment. A moment of pure happiness and joy.”

“It sucks to have to defend myself as I continue to mourn both Liam and my grandmother. God’s power will prevail. Some of yall nasty spirits and words WILL NOT tarnish the original energy behind my moment in time with Liam that I invited you all to witness,” he added.

The world was shocked to learn about Liam’s death in Argentina on October 16, after a heartrending fall from a hotel balcony at the tender age of 31. He is survived by his young son Bear, aged seven, whom he shared with former Girls Aloud star Cheryl Tweedy.