On March 25, 2015, One Direction fans had their hearts broken: Zayn Malik announced he was leaving the group. The heartbreak, however, was quickly soothed, as Malik began to work on solo projects. Now, after almost a year, he has released his first single, “PILLOWTALK.” If you haven’t heard it yet, the iTunes description is pretty generic and doesn’t tell you much about the song – so scroll on for a first listen’s reactions and thoughts.
Okay, before I get started, I’m a little confused as to why he chose to rebrand as ZAYN. Between that and the all-caps stylizing of the song’s title, I feel like I’m being shouted at. Trust me, I know he’s back. The entire world knows he’s back.
(Quick note – there is also a video featuring Malik’s girlfriend Gigi Hadid, but I’m listening on Spotify.)
Here it goes!
20 seconds in, and the bass is incredible! There’s also some ethereal backing vocals that sound female, although that could have been done in the studio.
“I’d love to hold you close, tonight and always/I’d love to wake up next to you.” Aw!
Oh this just got very sexual very quickly.
Halfway through the second verse – the song seems to be about a couple who can’t stop fighting, but that’s what makes their relationship work so well. Not a new idea, but it’s handled pretty well.
I think my favorite lyrics are “It’s our paradise, it’s our war zone.” Lots of things are contrasted in this song – slow and high-tempo, enemies and allies – but something about that line sticks with you.
I won’t lie – I was a bit disappointed, since the song was so hyped on social media. Overall, though, it’s a good pop song, tinged with a bit of R&B influence. It’s definitely not a song One Direction would have ever released, but is a step in the right direction for someone trying to distance himself from a boy band past. I’m excited to see what ZAYN releases in the future!
4/5 stars.
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