Why Is Zayn Malik Leaving One Direction? 1D Singer Says He's Stressed
It is official: Zayn Malik has quit One Direction, one of the biggest and busiest boy bands in recent music history. After months of rumors and speculations about his wanting to go solo, the band issued an official statement Wednesday that the 22-year old singer is leaving the band.
This news immediately followed his non-appearance in one concert night of the band in the Philippines. The band was slated for a two-night concert run in the country and Malik was not able to join the band on the first night.
A report in BBC Newsbeat said that Malik "walked away from the band's world tour" which was in Asia last week and will be in Africa this weekend. The band will continue their world tour as a four-member band. Malik has reportedly flown back to the U.K.. His main reason for leaving the tour was because of stress.
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"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 apologise to the fans if I've let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart," Malik said in a statement, adding that he wants to be "a normal 22-year-old who is able to relax and have some private time out of the spotlight."
Simon Cowell, under whose record label the band signed on to, also said his thanks to Malik for "everything he has done for One Direction."
Another report in BBC Newsbeat shows just how busy the band is. Since their participation in the X Factor, they have logged in 300 tour dates in three years, have recorded 75 tracks as a band and have filmed one movie. Since 2010, they have gone on tour every year. The report called their schedule "hardcore," a life that someone in their 20s would not normally lead.
One Direction was formed during the X Factor competition in 2010, where they won third place.
