Zayn joined Kelly Clarkson on the couch of her show to talk about his brand new album, his farm in Pennsylvania, and his first solo concert in the UK to launch his fourth album.
Events > 2024 > May 7 | The Kelly Clarkson Show
Zayn could have easily wrapped his real-life experiences around convoluted metaphors and hidden messages on his latest single, “Alienated.” And he might have on previous records, but as the musician explained on the latest episode of Rolling Stone‘s The Breakdown: he isn’t trying to trick you.
Zayn talks with Capital FM about his farm, favorite foods, and his new music.
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.
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?
Zayn sat down with Sean Evans for Hot Ones to talk about pepper farming, his new music, and saving Harry Styles from pyro during a One Direction show.
Events > 2024 > Mar 14 | Hot Ones
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.
