Zayn Malik Performs One Direction Song For The First Time In 10 Years

On the 25th of March 2015, Zayn Malik left the world-renowned One Direction to escape the pressures of life in the spotlight — a decision that left thousands of fans heartbroken.

Following his departure, Zayn enjoyed life away from the public eye (to some extent) and later created a successful solo career, releasing four albums. In October 2024, he began his first world tour as a solo artist, the “Stairway to the Sky Tour”.

Fans gathered in Mexico City on the 25th of March 2025 to support Zayn, eagerly awaiting his entrance and usual opening song, “My Woman”. Instead, the crowd were surprised to hear a heartfelt cover of “Night Changes”, the last hit single released by One Direction before Zayn left, to honour the 10-year anniversary of the split.

In the past, he has posted a few covers of One Direction songs online, but nothing compares to hearing it live. The performance was an extremely emotional moment for both Zayn and his fans, with him exclaiming, “Thank you, that was amazing. I almost cried at one point”. The powerful cover even touched supporters who weren’t present at the concert, many of whom have taken to social media to share their excitement and express their delight.

The impassioned cover likely also served as an unspoken tribute to late One Direction member Liam Payne. As Zayn reflects on his boyband roots in a new light, fans are hopeful for more moments like this and continue to support his decisions as a growing solo artist.