Liam Payne recently signed a deal with Republic Records and subsequently announced some new music. The singer, who already has an ongoing contract with Capitol Records in the UK, is now determined to make a bigger splash in the US market as a solo artist.

Simon Oliveira, the artist’s manager, said in a statement: “With Republic’s track record of launching powerhouse talent in the US including superstars like Drake, Nicki Minaj, Lil Wayne, The Weeknd, Ariana Grade, Lorde and countless others, I am more than confident we have assembled the best team alongside Capitol’s UK label to launch and shepherd Liam’s solo career.”

And the label teased some new projects to entice the 23-year-old artist’s avid fans, adding: “A driving force of One Direction with numerous key songwriting credits, he sold over 20 million albums worldwide as part of the group in addition to receiving six BRIT Awards, seven American Music Awards, 11 MTV Europe Music Awards, four MTV Video Music Awards, and 27 Teen Choice Awards. He kicks off his solo career with new music coming soon via an alliance with Capitol UK label, led by Nick Raphael.”

Liam, who initially praised Capitol Records back in July, insists that his One Direction bandmates will always be his family.

He stated at the time: “I’m really happy to have signed to such a prestigious label as Capitol Records UK. Capitol Records has an amazing history stretching right back before even Frank Sinatra and I’m really looking forward to becoming part of their story.

One Direction will always be my family; I’m now excited to show what I can do as a solo artist.”

But not everyone is happy. Simon Cowell had previously expressed disappointment when the band decided to leave Sony’s Syco label, adding: “I worked with these guys for six years, so I always hoped they would all stay within what I call the Sony family, but I think only one won’t.”