The long-awaited wait for Zayn Malik's fourth solo album is finally over. The former One Direction member released (May 17) his new LP, Room Under The Stairs.

The singer-songwriter offers a glimpse into a new era. Just three months after scrubbing his social media clean and deleting old content, the heartthrob is now heavily promoting his solo career. 

This journey is not just about music, but about Malik's personal growth and exploration. The project reveals a new side of the established artist, that is sure to captivate fans worldwide. 

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A post shared by Zayn Malik (@zayn)

Malik gave devoted listeners a taste of the project with his chart-topping releases, "Alienated" and "What I Am." If fans listen closely, they might hear a touch of country influences in his sound and throughout the overall album. 

In a recent interview with Nylon Magazine, Malik credits Chris Stapleton for influencing his artistry. 

"I was pretty much on my farm having a glass of whiskey and listening to a bit of Stapleton by the fire with my dog, playing guitar," he told the publication. "I'm proud of it. I think it shows a certain level of intellect to be a bit ahead of the curve."

Malik mentioned that Room Under The Stairs has been in the works for quite some time. In fact, he was working on it while recording his previous album. During his appearance on the Kelly Clarkson Show, he explained, "It took six years to make the record."

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New Label, New Zayn

After Malik left One Direction and started to pursue a solo career, he was well on his way to becoming a successful solo artist. In the summer of 2023, he transitioned from the RCA label to Mercury Records. "Love Like This" became the first single released under the new label.

Following the Tend, Combines Country Influence Into Project

The entire project was co-produced by Malik in collaboration with the illustrious Nashville-based producer Dave Cobb. Cobb's extensive portfolio boasts collaborations with musical legends spanning various genres, such as Brandi Carlile, Chris Stapleton, Bruce Springsteen, and many more. In a Rolling Stone interview, Cobb delved into the project, shedding light on how Malik is carving his own unique path. 

"Zayn has really created his own universe on this record," shared Cobb. "He really has no fear and is speaking straight from his soul."

A Special Show + Documentary

Malik is scheduled to perform six songs from the album live at O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire in London on the night (May 17) of the release. This particular show will be Malik's return to the stage and his biggest solo set to date. 

His documentary, Road Back To The Mic, will premiere following the performance. To Talk Shop Live, Zayn discusses the film and explains why he hasn't stepped back into the spotlight until now. 

Zayn on his new documentary, 'Road Back To The Mic' 🎤 #ZaynOnTalkShopLive pic.twitter.com/gNT7luA2bq

— Zayn Malik Updates (@ZaynReport) May 7, 2024

The History of Zayn

Malik is not a stranger to the music scene, as he began his career with mega boyband One Direction. In March 2015, Malik announced his departure from the group to launch his solo career. 

A year later, he released his debut solo project, Mind Of Mine, which featured the record-breaking hit "PILLOWTALK." Since that album release, the vocalist has released additional albums, Icarus Falls and Nobody's Listening.

Several artists have recently transitioned into the country genre, but Malik vocalizes that he's "not jumping on the bandwagon." The upcoming project reflects a taste of his roots, hometown, authenticity, and new sound. 

Photo Credit: Daniel Prakopcyk

Photo Credit: Daniel Prakopcyk