Zayn Malik, known mononymously as Zayn, is an English singer and songwriter. Born on January 12, 1993, in Bradford, England, Zayn gained international fame as a member of the boy band One Direction. He left the group in 2015 to pursue a solo career.
Zayn’s debut album “Mind of Mine” was released in 2016 and debuted at number one on the Billboard 200 chart. The album showcased his distinctive R&B-influenced sound, with tracks like “Pillowtalk” and “It’s You” becoming hits. Zayn’s subsequent albums, “Icarus Falls” (2018) and “Nobody Is Listening” (2021), have continued to showcase his talent for soulful and introspective pop.
Zayn’s music often explores themes of love, heartbreak, and self-reflection. He is known for his smooth vocals and evocative songwriting. He has collaborated with a range of artists, including Taylor Swift, Sia, and Nicki Minaj. In addition to his music, Zayn has also worked as a fashion designer and model.
Overall, Zayn’s contributions to pop music and his distinctive sound have made him one of the most exciting young artists of his time. His success as a solo artist after leaving One Direction is a testament to his talent and creativity.
10. Live While We’re Young (2012)
“Live While We’re Young” is a single from One Direction’s 2012 album “Take Me Home,” which features Zayn as one of the band’s members. The song has an upbeat, catchy pop sound with a memorable chorus. The lyrics encourage listeners to enjoy life and have fun, while the music video features the band in various playful settings. “Live While We’re Young” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of One Direction’s most popular songs. The track’s infectious energy and youthful optimism have made it a favorite among fans of pop music.
9. Stockholm Syndrome (2014)
“Stockholm Syndrome” is a haunting and introspective pop song by British singer ZAYN. The song’s lyrics explore the complex and often contradictory emotions of a toxic and obsessive relationship, with references to the psychological phenomenon of Stockholm Syndrome. The melody features a slow and atmospheric beat, with ZAYN’s soulful vocals and ethereal harmonies creating a dreamy and otherworldly sound. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “cause now I’m lost in your arms,” perfectly captures the sense of helplessness and entrapment that characterizes the song. Overall, “Stockholm Syndrome” is a poignant and thought-provoking song that showcases ZAYN’s talents as a singer and songwriter.
8. 18 (2014)
“18” is a soulful and heartfelt track by British singer-songwriter ZAYN, released in 2014 when he was still a member of the boyband One Direction. The song features a mellow and melodic sound, with ZAYN’s powerful vocals taking center stage. The lyrics, co-written by ZAYN, speak of a tumultuous relationship and the pain and confusion that comes with it. The song’s emotional depth and raw honesty showcase ZAYN’s talent as a songwriter and his ability to connect with listeners on a personal level. “18” is a standout track from ZAYN’s time in One Direction, and a testament to his future success as a solo artist.
7. Kiss You (2012)
“Kiss You” is an upbeat and catchy pop song by British singer ZAYN. The song’s lyrics are playful and flirty, with ZAYN singing about the excitement and joy of being in a new relationship. The melody features a fast-paced and energetic beat, with ZAYN’s smooth vocals and infectious hooks creating a fun and youthful sound. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “oh, I just wanna take you anywhere that you like,” perfectly captures the sense of adventure and spontaneity that characterizes the song. Overall, “Kiss You” is a fun and catchy song that showcases ZAYN’s talents as a pop singer.
6. Right Now (2013)
“Right Now” is a song from One Direction’s 2013 album “Midnight Memories,” which features Zayn as one of the band’s members. The song has a more mature sound than some of the band’s previous hits, with a slow, moody beat and evocative lyrics about a troubled relationship. Zayn delivers a standout performance on the track, showcasing his smooth vocals and emotional range. “Right Now” was a critical success and a favorite among One Direction fans, who praised its depth and complexity. The track further cemented Zayn’s status as a rising star in the pop music world.
5. One Way or Another (2013)
“One Way or Another” is a cover song originally performed by the band Blondie in 1978, but was covered by the British-Irish boy band One Direction in 2013 for the charity Comic Relief. The cover features the band’s signature pop sound, with a lively and upbeat tempo, catchy chorus, and energetic vocals from ZAYN and his bandmates. The song’s lyrics speak of the pursuit of love and the lengths one will go to win someone’s heart. One Direction’s version of “One Way or Another” was a commercial success, and the proceeds from its sales went to support Comic Relief’s mission to end poverty.
4. Story of My Life (2013)
“Story of My Life” is a beautiful and emotive song by British singer-songwriter ZAYN, released in 2013 as part of his time in the boy band One Direction. The song features a powerful and uplifting melody, with ZAYN’s soulful vocals capturing the essence of the song’s introspective lyrics. The song speaks of the importance of family and loved ones, and the way they shape who we are and our experiences. The music video, featuring the band members and their families, adds to the song’s emotional resonance and authenticity. “Story of My Life” is a timeless ballad that showcases ZAYN’s talent as a singer and songwriter.
3. What Makes You Beautiful (2011)
“What Makes You Beautiful” is an infectious and upbeat pop song by British boy band One Direction, featuring vocals from ZAYN. The song’s lyrics are romantic and uplifting, with the band singing about the beauty and uniqueness of the girl they are pursuing. The melody features a catchy and upbeat beat, with ZAYN’s smooth vocals and harmonies adding to the song’s infectious sound. The chorus, with its repeated refrain of “you don’t know you’re beautiful,” has become a classic pop anthem and empowerment message for young people around the world. Overall, “What Makes You Beautiful” is a feel-good and uplifting song that showcases ZAYN’s talents as a pop singer.
2. Dusk Till Dawn (2018)
“Dusk Till Dawn” is a single from Zayn’s 2018 album “Icarus Falls.” The song features a cinematic sound with lush strings and dramatic drums, and showcases Zayn’s emotive vocals. The lyrics describe a love that endures through difficult times, with Zayn singing of a commitment to staying together “from dusk till dawn.” The music video, which features actress Jemima Kirke, is a mini-movie with cinematic visuals and a storyline. “Dusk Till Dawn” was a commercial success, reaching the top of the charts in several countries and becoming one of Zayn’s most popular songs. The track’s epic sound and romantic lyrics have made it a favorite among fans of pop ballads.
1. Night Changes (2014)
“Night Changes” is a single from One Direction’s 2014 album “Four,” which features Zayn as one of the band’s members. The song has a slow, acoustic sound with a melancholic tone and features Zayn’s smooth vocals. The lyrics describe the changing nature of relationships and the passing of time, with the chorus repeating the phrase “everything that you’ve ever dreamed of disappearing when you wake up.” The music video features each band member on a separate date with a different girl, showcasing the song’s theme of fleeting romance. “Night Changes” was a critical and commercial success, and has become one of One Direction’s most beloved songs.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
