Zayn Malik, born Zain Javadd Malik, is a British singer and songwriter known for his solo career after leaving the boy band One Direction.
He debuted at number one in the UK and US with his first album, Mind of Mine, and has released subsequent successful albums like Icarus Falls and Nobody Is Listening.
Recently, his album, Room Under the Stairs, has been reviewed as a departure from his previous style, focusing on a more introspective and sensitive sound.
Net worth
Malik’s net worth is estimated to be around $75 million.
He has accumulated this wealth primarily through his successful music career, first as a member of the popular boy band One Direction and later as a solo artist.
With One Direction, he earned millions from album sales, tours and merchandise, with the band generating significant revenue during their peak years.
As a solo artist, Malik has released hit albums and singles that have achieved international success. He has also secured income from brand endorsements with fashion labels like Versace, Tommy Hilfiger and Valentino.
Additionally, Malik has made wise real estate investments, including owning a $10.7 million penthouse in New York City.
One Direction
Malik auditioned as a solo contestant for the British TV competition show The X Factor in 2010.
Though he was eliminated before the final round, the judges decided to put him together with Harry Styles, Niall Horan, Liam Payne and Louis Tomlinson to form a new group called One Direction.
The newly formed boy band quickly gained popularity in the UK, finishing in third place on The X Factor.
They were then signed to a £2 million recording contract with Syco Records and Columbia Records.
Over the next five years, One Direction saw massive success, with sold-out world tours, international recognition and millions of devoted fans.
However, in March 2015, Malik decided to leave the band, citing a desire to be a “normal 22-year-old” and citing “exhaustion” as the reasons.
Malik later admitted there were also “underlying issues” and “politics” within the group that contributed to his departure.
Despite Malik’s exit, the remaining members of One Direction continued touring and released one more album, Made in the A.M., before announcing an indefinite hiatus in 2016.
Malik went on to launch a successful solo career, releasing three studio albums that have achieved international chart success.
In retrospect, Malik has said he views his One Direction years in a “much fonder light” now, despite the tensions and his desire to be the first to go solo at the time.
His time in the massively popular boy band laid the foundation for his subsequent solo achievements.
Solo career
Malik’s solo career has been marked by a departure from his boy band roots towards a more mature and introspective sound.
After the success of his debut single, Pillow Talk, which showcased a more R&B and soulful style, Malik continued to experiment with different genres and musical influences in his subsequent albums.
Icarus Falls, his second studio album, delved into more experimental and atmospheric sounds, featuring tracks that explored themes of love, loss and personal growth.
The album received critical acclaim for its ambitious production and emotional depth.
With Nobody Is Listening, Malik further showcased his versatility as an artist, blending elements of pop, R&B and alternative music.
The album’s intimate and introspective lyrics reflected his personal journey and experiences, resonating with fans who appreciated his authenticity and vulnerability.
Throughout his solo career, Malik has not only demonstrated his vocal prowess but also his songwriting skills, often co-writing and producing his music.
His willingness to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories has earned him a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim in the music industry.
In addition to his musical endeavors, Malik has also made a name for himself in the fashion world, collaborating with brands like Versace and designing his own fashion line.
His influence extends beyond music, making him a multifaceted artist with a global impact.
Awards and accolades
Malik has garnered numerous awards and accolades throughout his career, recognizing his talent and impact on the music industry.
He won the American Music Awards for New Artist of the Year in 2016 and Favorite New Pop/Rock Artist in 2017.
Malik has also received recognition at the MTV Europe Music Awards, taking home awards in categories like Best Look, Best US Act and Best New Artist.
In 2019, he was honored with the Outstanding Contribution to Music award at the British Asian Awards and the Outstanding Achievement in Music award at the Asian Awards.
Furthermore, he won the Best R&B, Hip Hop, or Grime award at the Global Awards in 2019.
Malik has also received nominations at prestigious events like the Grammy Awards, BRIT Awards and iHeartRadio Music Awards, showcasing his widespread recognition and influence in the music scene.
His success as a solo artist has been further highlighted by his ability to master different musical genres and captivate audiences worldwide with his soulful voice and artistic prowess.
Relationship history
Malik’s relationship history includes high-profile romances with notable figures.
He was engaged to Perrie Edwards, a member of Little Mix, from 2013 to 2015.
Following their split, Malik began dating model Gigi Hadid in 2015, with whom he shares a daughter named Khai.
Their relationship, marked by on-and-off periods, ended in 2021.
Malik was also romantically linked to Selena Gomez in 2023, sparking rumors of a relationship after being seen together in New York City.
Real estate
Malik has owned several high-end properties in various locations.
In New York City, he purchased a 3,597 square-foot penthouse in Soho following his breakup with Gigi Hadid, which he later sold at a loss in 2020.
Malik also owned a luxury apartment in Bel Air, Los Angeles, which he bought for $3.1 million in 2015 and sold at a loss for $2.94 million in 2019.
Additionally, he had a low-key hideaway in the upscale Bel Air neighborhood of Los Angeles listed for $3.495 million.
In 2020, Malik’s New York penthouse was on the market for $10.8 million, featuring high ceilings, a private rooftop terrace, and luxurious finishes.
He also considered purchasing a $2.5 million home in Lawrence, Kansas, marketed as an ideal private retreat.
These properties reflect Malik’s preference for upscale, stylish homes in prime locations, despite facing challenges in selling some properties at a profit.
