Articles Archives | World of Zayn World of Zayn

Feb 4th, 2026

Zayn Announces Fifth Studio Album ‘KONNAKOL’

BILLBOARD – The news comes following the conclusion of his residency in Las Vegas.
Following a flurry of recent activity for his former One Direction bandmates Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson in recent weeks, Zayn is now getting in on the action.

The 33-year-old has shared news of his upcoming fifth studio album, Konnakol, which is due to drop April 17 via Mercury Records/Island Records U.K. Lead single “Die for Me” will be released this Friday (Feb. 6).

The LP will be Zayn’s first since 2024’s Room Under the Stairs, which hit No. 15 on the Billboard 200, and No. 3 on the U.K.’s Official Albums Chart.

In a statement, Zayn has expanded on the album’s title, which is a reference to the art of performing percussion syllables vocally and often found in South Indian Carnatic music.

“It’s that time again, I have been lucky enough to make a fifth studio album,” he said in a press statement. “Konnakol in its definition is the act of creating percussive sounds with one’s voice, but what it means to me lies somewhere much deeper. It is a sound that holds the reverberation of a time before words existed.

He added, “I have always drawn on my heritage for inspiration since I first started making my own music — this album is a development of that understanding, knowing more now than ever, who I am, where I come from and where I intend to go.”

The album’s artwork sees Zayn’s face morphed with that of a snow leopard, an image that was first teased at his recent residency at Las Vegas’ Park MGM.

Zayn released his first solo album, Mind of Mine, in 2016, which charted at No. 1 in both the U.S. and U.K., and was followed by Icarus Falls (2018) and Nobody Is Listening (2021). In 2024, he ventured on his debut solo tour with a run of 21 shows in the U.K. and North America.

The news comes following the comeback of Harry Styles, who will release his fourth LP, Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally, on March 6, while Tomlinson recently hit the summit of the U.K. Albums Chart with How Did I Get Here?

At his Jan. 28 residency performance, Zayn made a cheeky remark about ticket prices, which some assumed were a reference to passes for Styles’ upcoming residency tour.

Oct 3rd, 2025

Zayn Malik and Louis Tomlinson Team Up for 3-Part U.S. Road Trip Documentary That Promises ‘Reconnection’ and ‘Laughter’

PEOPLE – The former One Direction singers will open up about life, love, loss and fatherhood
Zayn Malik and Louis Tomlinson have a whole lot of One Direction history — and now, they’re teaming up for a new project!

The British singers announced on Thursday, Oct. 2 that they’ll join forces for a new three-part Netflix series that will see the pair “embark on a road trip across America in a spontaneous adventure of reconnection, exploration and a lot of laughter,” according to a press release.

The release says that the project — directed by Nicola Marsh, and produced by Campfire Studios — will see the musicians “opening up about life, love, loss and fatherhood.”

The series does not yet have a release date.

Malik, 32, and Tomlinson, 33, first met as members of One Direction on The X Factor in 2010, where they were grouped together alongside Harry Styles, Niall Horan and the late Liam Payne. The two were bandmates until Malik’s departure from One Direction in 2015.

Shortly after, Malik and Tomlinson got into a heated exchange on X, though they appear to have since mended fences.

The pair — who have been spotted hanging out together in recent weeks in photos shared by fans to social media — joined Styles, 31, and Horan, 32, at Payne’s funeral in November, and in January, Tomlinson attended Malik’s Stairway to the Sky Tour stop in Los Angeles.

“Tonight is kind of special. An old friend of mine is here supporting me tonight,” Malik said from the stage. “He’s sitting somewhere here. I don’t want to give his location away, but Louis is here tonight.”

Tomlinson previously said in 2017 that his late mother Johannah Deakin wanted him to reconcile with his former bandmate.

“My mum said, ‘You’ve got to get back in contact with Zayn. Life’s too f—ing short,'” he told The Sun, noting that Malik was “just a little misunderstood.” “We really care about each other. I could always break the rules a little bit with Zayn… it was that brotherly love. We will always have that love for each other.”

He was asked in 2022 on The Zach Sang Show if the two were still friends, and hinted that a reconciliation could be in the cards.

“When you asked me a similar question [last time].. I believe I said I don’t think I’m mature enough to get over what’s frustrated me in that relationship. I don’t know if I’m mature enough now, but I’m definitely closer to being over all that. There’s been numerous times over the last couple of years where I’ve thought about him and hoped he’s alright. I’ve tried to get in touch with him, but it’s hard… I definitely wish him well.”

He added, “I think in time. I think we just have to bump into each other ‘cause neither of us have each other’s number. I suppose maybe social media might be the way.”

Malik released his fourth album Room Under the Stairs in May 2024, and will kick off his first-ever Las Vegas residency in January. Tomlinson, meanwhile, recently announced that his third album How Did I Get Here? is set for release on Jan. 23, and he will support the record with a world tour.

Feb 19th, 2025

ZAYN climbs higher than ever before with ‘Stairway to the Sky’

THE TICKER – To celebrate the release of their 2013 studio album “Midnight Memories,” One Direction announced the “Where We Are” world tour, which kicked off the following year.

Little did fans know that this would be the last time they would see Zayn Malik perform live with the band.

In 2015, shortly after the start of the “On The Road Again” tour, the singer announced his departure from One Direction in a Facebook post and officially left the group in March.

A decade later, the singer—who now goes professionally by ZAYN—has released his fourth studio album, “ROOM UNDER THE STAIRS,” and is currently on the last leg of his first-ever solo tour.

ZAYN announced the “Stairway to the Sky Tour” during a brief surprise appearance on Jimmy Fallon’s “Tonight Show” on Sept. 17.

“Hey Jimmy, great to see you, mate,” Zayn wrote on a note card to Fallon. “I’m going on my first ever solo tour this autumn, so maybe when you’re done picking apples with your buds, you can come check out my “Stairway to the Sky” tour across the U.S. and U.K. I’m making an official announcement tomorrow morning. Let me know what day you need tickets for.”

The announcement followed the May 15, 2024 release of “ROOM UNDER THE STAIRS,” which features 15 original songs written and produced by the singer himself.

On May 20, 2024, he released “ROOM UNDER THE STAIRS (Z SIDES),” which includes five bonus tracks.

The tour announcement featured stops in major U.S. cities such as San Francisco, Las Vegas, Washington D.C., and New York.

Following the U.S. leg, the singer was set to move on to the U.K., with the tour originally expected to conclude in Newcastle on Dec. 3, 2024.

Due to overwhelming demand during presale and general ticket sales, ZAYN added additional dates to give more fans the chance to see him live, including second shows in New York and D.C., as well as two extra dates in Los Angeles.

Originally scheduled for late 2024, the tour was abruptly halted following the tragic passing of former One Direction member Liam Payne on Oct. 17.

ZAYN was originally set to tour the U.S. first, but after Payne’s passing, he postponed the American dates and instead began in the U.K. before resuming the U.S. leg in January.

ZAYN and Payne shared a close yet sometimes tense relationship during their time in One Direction. Since the start of the tour, ZAYN has included a tribute to his late bandmate at the end of each show.

The screen displays the words “Love you bro” above a red heart against a purple background while the song “Stardust” plays, mirroring his Instagram post following Payne’s death.

Since the tour began, fans have shared the setlist online, which primarily features songs from “ROOM UNDER THE STAIRS.” However, ZAYN also included a few of his most popular songs from past albums, such as “iT’s YoU,” “Sweat,” and “PILLOWTALK.”

One of the most talked-about moments of the tour came on the second night in Los Angeles when Louis Tomlinson, the oldest former member of One Direction, made a surprise appearance in the audience.

This marked the first time ZAYN and Louis had publicly acknowledged each other since Payne’s passing and since One Direction split in 2016, making it a significant and nostalgic moment for longtime fans.

“So tonight’s kind of special. An old friend of mine is here to support me tonight. He’s hidden somewhere here. I don’t want to give his location away, but Louis is here tonight,” ZAYN said during the show.

Photos of Tomlinson seated on the balcony began circulating on X and Reddit. Some fans also pointed out that, in a way, the night symbolized a reunion of three One Direction members—ZAYN, Tomlinson, and Payne in spirit.

The “Stairway to the Sky” tour“ has been a massive success, with every show selling out rapidly and additional dates being added due to overwhelming demand.

What was originally intended to be a limited tour quickly grew into something much bigger. Initially, the tour was set to conclude in Newcastle, but due to immense demand, ZAYN recently announced one final stop: three back-to-back shows in Mexico City.

The first two shows sold out within minutes, leading to the addition of a third and final show, marking the conclusion of what has become a significant milestone in ZAYN’s solo career.

For years, ZAYN was labeled as the more withdrawn and shy member of One Direction. ZAYN has often spoken about his struggles with anxiety, even citing stress as the reason for his departure from the band.

“I want to be a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight,” Malik said in his official statement, posted via One Direction’s Facebook account in 2015.

In later interviews, ZAYN revealed that his departure was also due to feeling restricted within the band’s pop sound. He expressed that he felt disconnected from the group’s musical direction and wanted to explore genres such as R&B and more experimental music.

ZAYN has also spoken of his struggles with an eating disorder during his time in One Direction, which were major contributors to his decision to leave.

Immediately after stepping down, the singer began working on his solo career, releasing “Mind of Mine,” his debut album in 2016, which led to the hit single “PILLOWTALK.”

For longtime fans, “STAIRWAY TO THE SKY” is more than just a concert—it’s proof that after years of uncertainty, ZAYN is back, stronger than ever and ready to share his music with the world on his terms.

Jul 1st, 2024

Zayn Malik gets candid about his music, life away from the city, and becoming a father

Photoshoots > Outtakes > Session 077

Zayn covers the July issue of Harper’s Bazaar India! Head to our press archive or their website to read the full interview.

Our July cover star has been in the making for a while now. He talks to us about his refreshed focus on the best things that life has to offer.
Up until this story and cover shoot, the only thing Zayn Malik and I had in common was our birthday. We were born on the exact same day, month, and year, and I always wondered if we had any similarities. After a remote photoshoot and interview—where I powered through a few espresso shots to stay awake for a 4:00 a.m. Zoom call (IST) while Malik effortlessly switched outfits and charmed everyone on set—I realised we do share one trait: we both love being around people as much as we love our me-time.

Malik, known for his chart-topping hits and his quintessential boyish mystique, has over the years morphed from a boy band heartthrob with a winning smile to a solo artist with a sound as sexy as it is sophisticated. He’s traded the bubblegum pop beats for a musical universe that’s daring, soulful, and undeniably Zayn. He is a trendsetter whose effortless demeanour has redefined style just as the perfect Bazaar Man. He is also a philanthropist who uses his platform to champion causes he believes in. And recently, he’s stepped into the beautiful world of fatherhood. Yet Malik, in all his multifaceted brilliance, is only just entering a new era.

The former One Direction member has a new solo album—Room Under the Stairs—in which he has mixed R&B with Americana and folk music while paying homage to his Pakistani roots. This is Malik’s first project under a new label, Mercury and Republic Records. This shift signifies a return to creative control, with Malik taking the lead on production along with collaborator Dave Cobb. This album has been coming for a long time. “It started when I wrote ‘Alienated’ about six years ago. I wrote something I didn’t know I had in me,” the ‘Pillowtalk’ singer says. “Once I unlocked that potential and realised I liked where the sound was headed, I wanted to create more. I think my daily environment helped shape the music I created and made it easy to embrace.”

Leaving behind the cycle of churning out new tracks, Malik has turned to creating slowly and steadily. Back with his fourth studio album after a two-year hiatus, Malik has learnt how to take out more time to live a little, and put more of himself into his work, with a constant fan base that has always been there to support him through thick and thin. There is some sort of a spring in his step, a self-aware tone to his voice. Even on set, there is a sense of contentment and peace radiating from him. He carries a Manish Malhotra as delicately and suavely as a pair of shorts and flannel shirts that he regularly prefers.

Malik has only become more transparent with his followers, taking them with him on a journey. He’s grown up with us, and in a way, we have grown up with him. “My relationship with my fans is ever-changing for the better as is every relationship in my life. I’m growing and learning,” he admits. “I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.” But Malik is an artist who has mostly had a very private becoming. Even though the 31-year-old believes that the support of his fans has been the biggest ingredient in his making (and he doesn’t forget to mention he’s beyond thankful for them), Malik has been winning a battle to redefine himself without being limited to what people expect of him.

May 14th, 2024

Zayn’s Country

Photoshoots > Outtakes > Session 075

The entire article has been added to the Press Library or you can read it at the Nylon website.

Zayn Malik looks, for a change, happy to be here. “Here” being the lofted dressing room of a photo studio, next to a table with a few empty immunity-shot bottles and a cheese plate, gamely participating in an interview before a shoot. There is not a jittery knee in sight, no half-mumbled thoughts to decode. He is chatty, speaking in full, booming paragraphs that are too loose to be rehearsed. He is open, freely bringing up One Direction and his exes by name. And it all comes out in his rich Yorkshire accent, which melts vowels down to their core and treats consonants as mere suggestions.

He is doing all the extroversive chores you have to do to get your new music — in this case, a new country-flavored album called Room Under the Stairs, out May 17 — heard by people. For some musicians, this is a low and unremarkable bar to clear. For Zayn, who was so tormented by the grind of pop stardom that he quit his boy band at the height of its power, refused most aspects of “promo,” never toured, barely performed live, and regularly ghosted journalists, it feels like a revelation. This new Zayn does not ghost me. He says goodbye with an endearingly clumsy hug. Then he comes up to me again later with his manager in tow because they realized the cheese plate was a little pungent, and, well, if I smelled anything? “It wasn’t me!” Zayn says with eye-popping exuberance. He is headed outside for a smoke break, so he has thrown on a leather jacket that he wears with the virtuosic ease only former teen idols possess. If you saw him, you simply would give up on ever trying to pull one off yourself.

Fatherhood — it changes people. Zayn was 27 when he became a dad to Khai, his daughter with ex-partner Gigi Hadid in September 2020. Even for those in the most enviable of tax brackets, parenthood and a pandemic have a way of rearranging your priorities. Being a tortured artist who only sticks his head out of his cave every few years starts to look different when somebody’s depending on you. (Private school is expensive, I joke. “Yeah, no, there’s a lifestyle to upkeep, definitely,” he answers, not joking.) It triggers a domino effect of responsibility. “I was very much this one-sided brain when it came to being an artist: ‘All I care about is the art!’” Zayn says. Not anymore. He goes on a small tangent about merch — isn’t it strange how it’s always the most basic stuff that does well? “There’s been so many times I would like to do things that are a little bit cooler, a bit more artistic,” he says. “The statistics don’t lie: If my face is on it, it sells way better.”

Speaking of numbers: Zayn cares about them a little more than he thought. Since declaring his independence with his chart-topping 2016 single “Pillowtalk,” a power ballad about having sex so loud you piss off your neighbors, he has learned how fickle attention spans are in the streaming economy. His 2018 double album, Icarus Falls, had some hits, but it didn’t chart so well, and 2021’s leaner Nobody Is Listening mostly flew under the radar. “It didn’t get the attention it deserved,” he says. “I ironically called it Nobody Is Listening too! And nobody was!” he adds, laughing. “You can’t just put the work out and expect people to go find it. The way the world works now, everyone’s connected, and you need to be a part of it.” (He is not the only elusive artist coming to this conclusion: Even Beyoncé — Beyoncé! — is doing meet-and-greets and making influencer content.)

Apr 8th, 2024

Zayn Malik speaks on new music, home city Bradford and identity

Order Issue 1610 to read the full interview at bigissueshop.com

BIG ISSUE – Global pop megastar Zayn talks to Big Issue about how his roots shaped his life and influenced his new music
Zayn Malik has given an exclusive interview with the Big Issue, which goes on sale this week to support vendors experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

In it, he talks about his new album due to be released in May, Room Under the Stairs, and how his thoughts have turned back to the place he spent his early years before he became famous with One Direction.

Zayn’s latest single, “What I Am”, was released last month. Asked about its message, Zayn said: “I’m reflecting on the way that I approach situations rather than necessarily a correlation to what my original identity is. It’s just growth as a human being. I’m a man, you know; that’s what I’m talking about.”

Zayn goes on to consider how his childhood, growing up in the Yorkshire city of Bradford has influenced his life.

He said: “I do remember being really young, probably seven or eight years old, and deciding that I wouldn’t spend my entire life in my hometown. I wanted to do something unique and worthwhile.

“My original nod towards the start was that I wanted my parents to have a better house. We lived in a rented property our whole upbringing and I wanted to give them a better quality of living. So that was the original intent behind it, and then when I got to about 17 or 18, I wanted to forge my own path, write my own story and go out and see the world.”

The interview arrives as Zayn becomes an ambassador for Bradford City of Culture 2025.

Zayn said: “For Bradford to get some kudos or spotlight on them is something I’m happy about, and if I can encourage that in any way, then I’d love to be a part of it.”

Zayn also explains how over time he has realised and come to value his northern identity.

“I always initially knew how much Bradford had influenced me, even when I came to London to do The X Factor. I was instantly introduced to many different characters that I had not come across before and quickly realised that my personality and the way I am is very Northern.

“Now as a 31-year-old man, after living in America for ten years, I’ve definitely come to terms with the fact that I’m a very Northern man, which heavily influences my personality and decision-making on a daily basis.”

In a special edition of Big Issue, Zayn has assembled a range of voices from Bradford to share how the city has also shaped their lives. Contributors include Steven Frayne aka magician Dynamo, award-winning producer and artist Nia Archives as well as teachers, school students, an NHS nurse and more.

Mar 27th, 2024

Zayn Covers the Spring 2024 Issue of L’Officiel USA

Photoshoots > Outtakes > Session 074

Read an excerpt of the article below. The transcript has been added to our Press Library, or you can read the interview at lofficielusa.com

With Room Under the Stairs, Zayn Malik is finally ready to talk.
Zayn Malik has long known how to use his voice.

His sharp, full-bodied tenor helped One Direction become one of the world’s best-selling boy bands of all time. One of the most visible pop stars of Asian descent working outside Asia, he sang in Urdu, the lingua franca of Pakistan, on his 2016 solo debut Mind of Mine. At Valentino’s Fall/Winter 2024 show last January, he wore a suit emblazoned with the words WE’RE SO OLD, WE HAVE BECOME YOUNG AGAIN in all caps—a wink, perhaps, to the fact that, at the age of 31, Malik is now a pop veteran with a decade and a half of experience in the public eye under his belt. (Ever the family man, he attended the Paris shows in January with his mom in tow.)

But on his new album, Room Under The Stairs, the solo artist reveals his most surprising act yet: himself. Written and recorded independently over six years, mostly from the seclusion of his farm in rural Pennsylvania, the record trades slick studio wizardry for a stripped-down acoustic sound, confessional lyrics about the messiness of love and parenthood, and the many existential questions that come with entering one’s fourth decade. (Malik shares a three-year-old daughter, Khai, with his former girlfriend, model Gigi Hadid.) In one of his first interviews in years (he appeared on Alex Cooper’s hit podcast “Call Her Daddy” last summer), the press-shy singer discusses his daughter’s budding vocal talents, working with the legendary music producer Dave Cobb (who has worked with Chris Stapleton, Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, and more), and the peace of mind that comes with knowing that no one out there knows what they’re doing.

ALEX HAWGOOD: You’ve spent the past few years writing songs for your latest album at your home in rural Pennsylvania. What is your creative process like working from home?

ZAYN MALIK: When I get time to myself, I spend the majority of my time in the studio—I’ve built, like, a cabin studio. Even when I release a new record, I’m always thinking a few years ahead. That’s kind of how this album was created. It overlapped with working on some stuff that I was going to put on my previous record, Nobody Is Listening. I’m able to do it every day, because that’s been how I spend a lot of time here on the farm—just relaxing and spending time with my daughter.

AH: Another creative space that you share with your daughter is your vegetable garden.

ZM: Yeah, I love gardening. I got into it when I moved out here, probably about seven years ago. And now I get to share that experience with her, because I’ve gotten a bit better at things. My crops are actually edible and usable. So it’s really fun to take her out to the garden and show her the vegetable patch and all the different things in the garden, you know, what she can eat and what she can’t. She’s really interested in it. She loves raw vegetables. I’ll just find her, like, munching on a piece of broccoli, which is a parent’s worst nightmare, you know? [Laughs.] Whatever way you can get veggies into your kids, right?

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Feb 29th, 2024

Zayn Teases New Sonic Journey on Next Album Co-Produced With Dave Cobb

ROLLING STONE – The in-demand Nashville producer has worked with Chris Stapleton, Brandi Carlile, Jason Isbell, and more
Zayn Malik is gearing up to release his long-awaited fourth studio album, and he’s co-produced the upcoming LP with Grammy-winner Dave Cobb, Rolling Stone can exclusively confirm.

In working with Cobb — one of Nashville’s most accomplished and in-demand producers — Malik will explore new sonic territory and lean into pairing his unmistakable vocals with live instrumentation. The soulful singer-songwriter had spent several years writing the album at his home in rural Pennsylvania before enlisting Cobb’s help as a co-producer. There’s no release date or title yet, but the album will be Malik’s first on new label, Mercury Records.

“What got me about Zayn was his voice, you can hear love, loss, pain, triumph and humanity in it. I feel as if this record is removing the glass from his spirit directly to his fans,” Cobb says. “Zayn has really created his own universe on this record, he really has no fear and is speaking straight from his soul.”

In an interview on Call Her Daddy last year, Malik teased the upcoming album a bit, saying, “I’m doing a record I don’t think people are really gonna expect. It’s a different sound for me. And it’s got some more narrative going on, like real-life experiences and stuff. My daughter’s mentioned in there a couple of times.”

Malik’s last album, Nobody Is Listening, was released in 2021. Since then, he’s shared a couple of scattered singles, including “To Begin Again” with Ingrid Michaelson, a cover of Jimi Hendrix’s “Angel,” and last year’s “Love Like This.” Back in January, Malik collaborated with the up-and-coming Pakistani group Aur on a reimagining of their hit single, “Tu Hai Kahan.”

As for Cobb, his credits include hit albums and critically acclaimed projects with Chris Stapleton, Brandi Carlile, Lady Gaga, Jason Isbell, Lori McKenna, and Sturgill Simpson. More recently, he’s teamed up with some classic rockers like Slash and Sammy Hagar, as well as Barry Gibb, Greta Van Fleet, Gavin DeGraw, and William Prince.

Jan 31st, 2024

Zayn Malik Talks 2024 Goals, Setting the Bar High, and Finding Balance

E! ONLINE – Zayn Malik discusses new music, plans for 2024, and his role as Mixoloshe’s Chief Creative Officer in an exclusive E! interview.
We interviewed Zayn Malik because we think you’ll like his picks. Zayn is the co-owner and CCO of Mixoloshe. E! has affiliate relationships, so we may get a commission if you purchase something through our links. Items are sold by the retailer, not E!. Prices are accurate as of publish time.

Just one month in and 2024 is already shaping up to be a big year for Zayn Malik. After six years of dedication and hard work, he’s dropping some highly-anticipated new music. He is also the co-owner and Chief Creative Officer of the brand Mixoloshe, which Zayn says “is about crafting experiences.”

He elaborates, “Mixoloshe is about authenticity and quality. We’re not just creating non-alcoholic versions of drinks. Our focus on natural ingredients, the balance of flavors, and the innovative approach to mocktails sets us apart. It’s about offering a sophisticated alternative that doesn’t compromise on taste.”

Mixoloshe is a brand that encourages us to have it all and find balance in our choices. Zayn emphasizes, “Balance is key in everything. It’s about moderation and making mindful choices that align with your lifestyle and values. Whether it’s in your diet, your work, or your personal life, finding that equilibrium is crucial. For me, it’s about staying true to myself and ensuring I make time for the things and people I love.”

In an exclusive E! interview, Zayn shares what he’s looking forward to most in 2024, advice for sticking to your goals, and his signature drink, the Mixoloshe Lychee Martini by Zayn.

E!: What are some of your goals for 2024?
ZM: In 2024, I’m setting the bar high. Going to continue to explore and expand my creative boundaries in music, Mixoloshe, and other projects.

E!: What advice do you have for someone who needs some extra motivation sticking to their goals?
ZM: It’s hard! You have to stay focused and believe in yourself. Surrounding yourself with people who help you grow and believe in you is essential too.

E!: What are you looking forward to the most in 2024?
ZM: I’m really looking forward to releasing new music. I’ve been working on this project for about six years now, so I can’t wait. It has been a while.

E!: What made you want to sign on as a co-owner of Mixoloshe?
ZM: I’ve always been drawn to creativity and innovation, both in music and in other ventures. The non-alcoholic beverage market is burgeoning with potential, and Mixoloshe stood out as a brand that’s not only pushing boundaries but also aligns with a healthier, more inclusive lifestyle. This partnership felt like the right fit for exploring a new creative avenue.

E!: What’s the first Mixoloshe drink you tried and what was that experience like?
ZM: Mango Chili Crush was the first Mixoloshe drink i tried. It surprised me and made me realize the potential of NA beverages. The balance of sweet & spicy was spot on and the flavor was just really good!

E!: What makes Mixoloshe a great pick for Dry January and beyond?
ZM: It’s perfect for those who are looking to explore non-alcoholic options without losing the essence of a good drink. Whether you’re taking a break from alcohol or seeking healthier choices, Mixoloshe provides that without compromising on the experience.

Jan 23rd, 2024

“You Have To Take Care Of Yourself”: Zayn Malik On His Fashion Week Return And Valentino Homecoming

BRITISH VOGUE – Zayn Malik’s arrival at Paris Fashion Week was not without incident. At about 8:30pm on Friday evening, a slow-moving car ran over his toes. Malik was exiting Kenzo’s autumn/winter 2024 show at the Bibliothèque Nationale, where a small army of Directioners had mobilised, precipitating a minor roadblock. That would have been enough to send anyone – particularly those of an introverted disposition – back into relative isolation. But there he was: on Saturday’s front rows, seemingly content with being perceived in public for the first time in five years. “My foot is fine!! Thanks to my incredibly well-made shoes,” Malik later explained on Instagram, captioning a photo of his tyre-marked Kenzo sneakers. It is the most deft use of the Paid Partnership tag I have ever seen.

Paris Fashion Week (which is perhaps the most accurate barometer of who and what is considered to be culturally relevant), fulfils a secondary purpose: to launch and relaunch the careers of its attendees. It is a place to see and be seen, and perhaps even, make a cameo in a brand’s TikTok video. It tracks, then, that Malik should choose the white heat of the men’s shows to re-emerge from a period of seclusion. Just as his new film – in which he voices a pair of animated bumblebees – debuts at the Sundance Film Festival, and less than a week after he released a single in Urdu with the Pakistani pop trio Aur. “It’s a busy time so you have to take care of yourself,” the musician, who has sometimes chafed against the demands of fame, says, sitting in a luxe suite at the Bulgari Hotel. “So I brought my mum with me. It’s always nice to have things that remind you of home when you’re away.” A moment, please, for product placement: “And, of course, I’m always drinking Mixoloshe,” he adds. “It keeps me young!”

Malik’s comeback reached its apotheosis when he arrived at Valentino’s Le Ciel autumn/winter 2024 show in a suit bearing the words, “We’re So Old, We Have Become Young Again”, which is a phrase that first appeared in Hanya Yanagihara’s 736-page invocation of human suffering A Little Life, but could just as feasibly have been plucked from One Direction’s teenybopper songbook. (Specific enough to inspire yearning, broad enough for anyone to insert themselves into.) “Funnily enough, the first fashion show I ever attended was Valentino nine years ago,” Malik says. “But I think, over the years, my knowledge of fashion has expanded. I have a lot more appreciation for it. Pierpaolo is incredible and Valentino never misses in my opinion.” At some point between our conversation and his arrival at the brand’s Monnaie de Paris step and repeat, Malik’s quiff was razed into a handsome short back and sides – a bit like when a bride gets a haircut midway through her wedding day.

And judging from Malik’s hastily-taken photos from the front row – squint and you might be able to distinguish a series of crystalline worker jackets from Pierpaolo Piccioli’s laser-cut Acanthus leaf coats – it was a collection that stirred due levels of anticipation. “There were so many great looks, but at the top of my wishlist were the long, cut-out coats,” Malik says. “Valentino always has class, it executes that edginess and luxury combination the best. When I was younger, I used to save up all my wages from the pizza shop I worked at so that I could afford to buy a new pair of trainers or a tracksuit. I was only able to get one piece every couple of weeks and it probably would have taken me a lifetime to buy a Valentino outfit! So I feel blessed and lucky that I get to wear the brand.” But there might have been another explanation for Malik’s spontaneous, erm, runway shots. “I was excited to see Lamar Johnson, who I was sitting next to. I didn’t want to bother him, but I’m a fan of his work! He’s such a great actor.”

All of this is to say: Zayn Malik is back. The sensitive and brooding boy band-survivor restored and ready to reclaim his title as a global heartthrob. Among the photos he shared with Vogue – which continue to point towards a certain camera shyness despite his fame – one image in particular paints a timeless portrait. In it, Malik is sitting in the backseat of a chauffeur-driven car as a blur of bystanders scrape their iPhones against the windows. He looks a little apprehensive. And so, I wonder how Malik manages to step outside of all this toe-crushing furore, now 14 years in the game. “The museums in Paris are full of beautiful art and talented artists,” he says, with all the earnestness that first saw him two-step into the hearts of millions of Directioners around the world. “I would highly recommend going to a few and viewing different works of art. It’s very inspiring!”