Zayn Malik Quits One Direction
by Vance Madrid
It was only last week before the British popular band, One Direction came to Manila that Zayn Malik’s publicist issued a statement that he’s no longer joining the group’s Asian concert tour due to stress. Rumors about him leaving the group had started since then. But it was only confirmed by the band recently when they’ve posted on their official One Direction Facebook page.
“My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined. But after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band. I’d like to apologize to the fans if I’ve let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right,” said Malik on his social media account.
Malik, 22, has been part of the very popular British boy band since it was formed in 2010 after the members auditioned separately for the UK version of “The X Factor.” Simon Cowell became the group’s mentor and signed them to his label, Syco Records in 2010 after finishing third on The X Factor and the rest, as they is history.
One Direction catapulted to the limelight after four consecutive hit albums which include “Best Song Ever” and “Story of My Life.”
In a statement, the rest of the group said: “We’re really sad to see Zayn go, but we totally respect his decision and send him all our love for the future.”
“The past five years have been beyond amazing-we’ve gone through so much together, so we will always be friends.”
“The four of us will continue on our journey. We’re looking forward to recording the new album and seeing all the fans on the next stage of the world tour.”
Simon Cowell (who discovered the boyband) also issued a statement: “I would like to say thank you to Zayn for everything he has done for One Direction. Since I first met Zayn in 2010, I have grown very, very fond-and immersely proud-of him. I have seen him grow in confidence and I am truly sorry to see him leave. As for One Direction, fans can rest assured that Niall, Liam, Harry and Louis are hugely excited about the future of the band.”
