Zayn Malik has released his first solo effort less than a week after he announced his official departure from One Direction.
UK producer Naughty Boy posted the demo "I Won’t Mind" on Soundcloud on 30 March, along with the message: "let the music do the talking. there is nothing but love for what was left behind. thats why we don't mind. ;) #2016 #zaughty #zindabad" [Sic]
The track is surprisingly stripped-down compared to singles like "La La La" featuring Sam Smith and "Lifted" with Emili Sande.
In pictures: Zayn Malik
Show all 15
While Malik's first effort sounds slightly rushed and unfinished, Naughty Boy's reference to 2016 appears to imply the pair are working on something else for release next year.
Registration is a free and easy way to support our truly independent journalism
By registering, you will also enjoy limited access to Premium articles, exclusive newsletters, commenting, and virtual events with our leading journalists
Join our new commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies