
Multi-platinum recording artist Zayn joins Call Her Daddy for his first sit-down interview in nearly 6 years. From Alex's childhood home in Pennsylvania, he opens up about his surprisingly quiet life in PA, his pre-fame days, his X Factor audition, his reflections on his time with One Direction, and his decision to leave the group. Zayn also discusses the impact of fame on his mental health, proudly sharing his experiences as a father and how it has shifted his priorities. With his highly anticipated new music on the horizon, Zayn provides insight into his inspirations. Get ready to discover a whole new side of Zayn, zaddy gang ;)
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Alex Cooper
Hi, Daddy gang, it is your father. I am so excited that CallerDaddy has officially joined the SiriusXM family. I cannot wait to talk to new guests and continue to share my crazy personal stories and experiences with you every single week. If you want to hear new episodes ad free, subscribe to Sirius XM podcasts on Apple Podcasts to start your free trial today. Haagen Dazs is made to be savored and enjoyed slowly introducing new Haagen Dazs Belgian Waffle Cones, a completely new experience that's worth slowing down for. Available in four delicious flavors, including my favorite, toasted almond fudge. It's a crispy Belgian waffle cone full of luxurious vanilla ice cream, topped with toasted almonds and milk chocolate curls and finished with fudge sauce at the bottom. Daddy Gang, I love, love, love a good vanilla chocolate almond. So get yourself some ice cream. New Haagen Dazs Belgian Waffle Cones, available at retailers nationwide. Call Her Daddy is brought to you by Nordstrom Rack. Great deals, great prices. Everyone's got a reason to rack. And now amazing deals for every day of summer are at Nordstrom Rack stores and they're up to 60% off. Yes, you heard that right, Daddy Gang. Did you know Nordstrom Rack has Adidas and Nike and Vince, seriously, they have so good brands. I feel like I always go with my mom and I'm like, oh my God, look at all the good stuff. You can always find something amazing. But don't wait. The best deals go fast. Save big on Marc Jacobs made well, Steve Madden and more. Plus, buy it online and pick it up in store the same day for free. Great brands, great prices. That's why you rock.
Zayn Malik
What is up, Daddy gang? It is your founding father, Alex Cooper.
Alex Cooper
With Call Her Daddy Daddy.
Zayn Malik
Hey, Zayn, welcome to Call Her Daddy. I'm so happy that you're here. We have to preface this with my fans are watching this. Like, where the are you guys? We are in my childhood home, Daddy gang. Okay, Zayn and I are in my living room that I grew up in. Zayn got here and has had to look at all the embarrassing childhood photos of me. Thank you so much for coming. I've never done anything. What did you say?
Unknown
I didn't see any embarrassment photos. I think you hid them all.
Zayn Malik
Actually, there's a couple. You'll see them on your way out and then you'll never look at me the same. I have never done a podcast in my childhood home, so this feels like a little sentimental. Also, you never really do Interviews.
Unknown
I don't.
Zayn Malik
When is the last time you did something like this?
Unknown
I think I did an interview like six years ago was the last time I did one.
Zayn Malik
So we're kind of like popping the cherry. Back off.
Unknown
I think so. Yeah, something like that.
Zayn Malik
So you're living in Pennsylvania, and I obviously grew up here. I loved it growing up. It's very family oriented, very suburban. But I'm curious to know, like, of all the trendy spots that you could have picked, why Pennsylvania?
Unknown
Yeah, it's interesting. A lot of people ask me that. Like, they always think it's super random that live out here. I ended up coming out here with. With my ex a bit like, and I fell in love with it. Like, it was just super, like calm and chill. Like you said, suburban. And I just wanted to, like, take a break from like, the busy city because, like, I was living in New York for three years at the time and it just got a bit overwhelming, you know, like going out of your door to like, just craziness all the time. So I just wanted a bit more like, of a surrounding that, like, I'm used to, like, where I grew up in Bradford, like in. In the uk, it's. It's a lot more this kind of pair, some vibe. So I feel like I just fit in better around here than I do in the trendy spots as it. As it is, as it were, you know.
Zayn Malik
Yeah, you give trendy vibes, but I think I totally relate to that of like, sometimes when you get.
Unknown
I'll take that. Yeah, Yeah, I give trendy vibes.
Zayn Malik
You give trendy vibes. Like, look at your outfit. It's like, pretty swaggy. But then you're also, like, hanging with the Amish folk. So it's like a good little juxtapos Zane. Okay. But what I find interesting is I love that you said, like, you would be in New York City and I'm assuming you would be going out and there's paparazzi everywhere taking photos of you. Pennsylvania, there ain't no paparazzi.
Unknown
That's a great thing.
Zayn Malik
Are they finding you or no?
Unknown
No, no, there's none out. Yeah, I think there's like, laws and stuff. They're not allowed to even take photos in certain places.
Zayn Malik
Oh, that's amazing. Okay, the most important question. Have you gone to Wawa yet?
Unknown
I have. Wawa is a nighttime life server out here.
Zayn Malik
I was like, how am I gonna get along with Zane if he hasn't, like, had a love for Wawa yet? Do you love it?
Unknown
Wawa yeah, like late night studio sessions. There's nothing else open. You have to go to Wawa, get the meatball soap.
Zayn Malik
It is so fucking superior. I remember growing up and my excuse whenever I would want to go, like, meet up with boys would be like, mom, like, I just want to go get a Wawa sub. And she'd be like, you're not choosing.
Unknown
Wawa as your cover up. Ye now.
Alex Cooper
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Zayn Malik
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Zayn Malik
Okay, so I feel like again, you're kind of this mysterious guy. Zane, we don't really know too much about you. You're kind of under the radar. So can you take me through a typical day in the life of Zayn in Pennsylvania? Like, what are we doing? Make us feel like we're a part of your life.
Unknown
A typical day for me is it kind of varies, depends, you know, like what kind of mood I wake up in. But I take it pretty easy. Like I just either now because obviously I've got my daughter like 50 of the time. It's. It's a balance between the two things. But when I buy myself a typical day is I probably wake up around like midday, have a shower, eat some food and then like figure out if I'm gonna go to the studio, do some writing. Because I've been in like writing mode for a long time, just like working on my records and stuff. So just, yeah, just getting into the studio pretty much. And then I'LL be there, like, all day, until I got to sleep.
Zayn Malik
Then. You're going to Wawa?
Unknown
I'm gonna go to Wawa, yeah. And stop off for a sandwich.
Zayn Malik
Are you. Are you someone that likes to be alone?
Unknown
I like my own space. I like to collect my thoughts in, like, a more quiet environment. I feel like when there's a lot of people around, it kind of, like, just gets a bit hectic for me. Yeah, I just. I like to chill by myself from time to time, but I don't mind hanging out with people now, like, on occasion. You know what I'm saying? Like, it has to be the right kind of environment. And after, like, want to be there, you know?
Zayn Malik
No, I get that. I feel like that's also growing up. Like, I was recently talking to some of my audience. I was meeting them in person, and we're like, it's kind of weird when you just start to grow up, up. You just get more specific with who you want to spend your time with. I think that's a healthy thing. Obviously, you're on a even bigger stage because you were around millions of people in stadiums and tours and everything. But I also think that's kind of relatable of, like, you know what? Sometimes I want to be alone, and then I'll still hang with people, but, like, you got to be good company.
Unknown
Yeah. I've always thought, like, it would be, you know, a pretty normal reaction to feel that way around so many people. I think anybody who was, like, overwhelmed in that manner would feel, you know, a certain type of way about it. But I'm definitely learning to manage it a lot better. Like, as I'm getting older, like, it's. It's more of a choice, you know, rather than a hindrance. It's not like I can't do that. It's like, I'd rather prefer not to.
Zayn Malik
Yeah, that makes sense.
Unknown
I own it a bit more. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
You obviously love music, but can you share with us, like, what are some.
Alex Cooper
Of your other hobbies?
Zayn Malik
What are you passionate about? What's other than music?
Unknown
Like, my main passion, I think, outside of music is art. I love to paint and I love to draw. I do a bit of cooking.
Zayn Malik
Kate, tell me one of your dishes. Come on. I can't cook for shit.
Unknown
I can cook a lot of different things, but I like to cook meat, like, specifically. Like, I have a smoker outside, and I like to smoke, like, lamb. And I cook, like, my. Like, I'll do, like, grilled vegetables with it and stuff.
Zayn Malik
Is this, like, new or were you always good at cooking?
Unknown
I wasn't always good at cooking, unfortunately for me. No. My mum kind of spoiled me as a kid, so when I was living by myself, like at 17, there was some botch jobs done for some meals. Yeah, it wasn't great. Some disgusting stuff was going down for sure.
Zayn Malik
Mac and cheese?
Unknown
Yeah. Horrible. Yeah, just sandwiches, you know, out of, like, crisps.
Zayn Malik
That's kind of nice to be able to know, like, you can cook, you're over there painting, you can sing.
Alex Cooper
Okay.
Zayn Malik
No big deal. Don't keep bragging over there. Wow. Making us all look bad. Do you have animals?
Unknown
I do, yeah. I've got a lot of animals. I have three cats, three dogs.
Zayn Malik
Do they get along?
Unknown
They're kind of like in different places. I have some dogs at one part of my house and the cats in the other. We have three turtles, six chickens.
Zayn Malik
Do you name them all?
Unknown
No, I haven't. Not this time. I got too attached last time and it made me really sad.
Zayn Malik
Did the chickens die?
Unknown
Yeah, I took. I took my chicken to the vet to get a scan because something was wrong with her and the vet laughed at me and said, people don't bring chickens here. And. And then they still charged me for an X ray. And then I took my chicken all the way home and cried. She died in my arms.
Zayn Malik
What are you saying? I'm like, not laughing because it's funny.
Unknown
It is kind of funny, but not because the chicken died, but it's just funny seeing me take a chicken to.
Zayn Malik
And when you say you're holding your chicken, like. Are you holding your chicken like this?
Unknown
Yeah, fully on my lap. Yeah. She died on my lap.
Zayn Malik
So you weren't crazy for going to the vet?
Unknown
No. Yeah, she had something wrong with it. We tried to rescue him. They were going to be slaughtered, I think, and they had all kinds of things wrong with them. Yeah. But I've got new chickens now and they're all healthy and stuff, but I didn't name them for that reason.
Zayn Malik
Okay, and what are the names of the cats?
Unknown
Salem, Dobby and Vito.
Zayn Malik
Dobby. Is that from Harry Potter?
Unknown
From Harry Potter. He's a sphinx. He's a pink sphinx. So he looks a little bit like Dobby.
Alex Cooper
Dobby.
Zayn Malik
Harry. That's so good. You're a Harry Potter fan.
Unknown
I'm a big Harry Potter fan.
Zayn Malik
Zane. I didn't know that about you. I wouldn't have pegged you as like a Harry Potter guy. Yeah, this is like really good. Good vibes.
Unknown
It was. It was my thing as a Kid. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
That's really good. Okay. And what are the dog's names?
Unknown
Zion, Zeus, and Thumper. Thumper with a F. With an F?
Zayn Malik
Yeah, Thumper.
Unknown
Thumper. Like Thumper but with an F. How.
Zayn Malik
Did you come up with that?
Unknown
Bambi. Thumper. The rabbit. But you wanted an F. Yeah, Thumper Thought sounded better.
Zayn Malik
Yeah.
Unknown
It'S better in my accent. Thumper.
Zayn Malik
Yeah, it does sound pretty good. Something I love to do on call her daddy is like, the reason we all are the way that we are is because of our childhood, where we came from, who we were raised by, our environment. Growing up. Obviously you living in Pennsylvania right now is so different from where you grew up in the uk In Bradford, like you described. Can you explain to people that may not be familiar with Bradford, like, what was your upbringing like and what was that environment like?
Unknown
Where do you want me to start?
Zayn Malik
Just wherever it feels right. Go ahead.
Unknown
Yeah, Bradford's not obviously like Pennsylvania in terms of, you know, like, the wealth and the way that it's like, you know, looked after and taken care of. It's. It's impoverished community. You know, there's people below working class there that have, you know, a hard environment that they're growing up in. You know, everyone's kind of got some issues going on at home or something's happening. You know, even if it's on the street or whatever, wherever you go, there's. There's a lot of confliction, you know, so it was very different to. To hear in that sense, for sure. But I'm very grateful for where I grew up because it. It definitely, like you said, shaped and molded a lot of identity for me. Early on I was questioned, you know, and like, interrogated about my identity because of my environment. Like, it's just the way it is. Like, you have to have a good understanding of who you are, and I'm really grateful for that. You know, it helped cement my own identity myself.
Zayn Malik
I think when you talk about, like, people would question your identity. I know your family is not from the uk. Your family is Pakistani. And I'm curious is that.
Unknown
My father is my. My mom's English.
Zayn Malik
Okay.
Unknown
Yeah.
Zayn Malik
So did. Are you saying, like, is that how that was influenced?
Unknown
No, not necessarily. Just in. In every sense of the word. Like, even like your fashion, the clothes you want to wear, the way you want to cut your hair. It was always something was questioned, you know, if you weren't doing the norm that was like, that everybody would. Was doing or everyone was following. You know, everyone would wear a certain type of Pan or set up a shoe. And if you weren't dressed that way, you would get questioned about it, you know, like, people would be very, like, in your face and be like, give you shit. So you had to, like, have a bit about you so that you could, you know, know who you were and have a conversation back. Have a bit of wits about yours. That is, you know, street smarts, for sure.
Zayn Malik
You got to be able to, like, hold your own.
Unknown
Exactly, yeah.
Zayn Malik
And when you say people are coming at you, is it more like peer dynam of or is it more like authoritative figures?
Unknown
Yeah, there's a mix. Sorry, of everything. It's. It depends, you know, there's. There's the peer pressure in schools and stuff, but then it's on the street. If you go out there and stuff, if you're just trying to have a good time, you know, like, it's not as friend friendly, fun, you know, it's a bit more, like, irate. There's. There's a bit of. A bit of aggression going on. You know what I mean? Yeah.
Zayn Malik
Talk to me about where you grew up. Like, are you in an apartment? Are you in a condo?
Unknown
Oh, no, we. I grew up in a. In a terraced house in a rented property. We never owned our own house, so. Yeah, it was. It was a small house. There was like three bedrooms, kitchen, living room. But the streets, like, are all, like. Every house is, like, stuck next to the one next to it, you know, I'm saying there's no space. You have a garden that's like. Like enough for maybe a dog to sit in. So. Yeah, it's a bit different. For sure. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
So you have three sisters. Okay. And so you are the one boy and three sisters. What was it like growing up with all. Mostly women around you? Like, how do you think that shaped you?
Unknown
I feel like I learned a lot of things, like, early on, my sisters are very opinionated. You know, they're very strong characters. And, yeah, I love them. They're great. They were a lot of fun. Yeah. It was always entertaining in our house, for sure.
Zayn Malik
I love. I really love when I meet a guy and I'm. You can just tell that he has sisters because you can just tell the way they move around women. You guys learn what a fucking tampon is?
Unknown
Earlier I had to go to the store and buy them.
Zayn Malik
Wow. So you were, like, really supporting that time of the month.
Unknown
Yeah.
Zayn Malik
Terrified.
Unknown
Yeah.
Zayn Malik
But supportive, for sure. Okay. Were you reluctant to go to the store and buy.
Unknown
Definitely not. It was just kind of weird, like when the shopkeeper would ask me, like, why I was buying them, and I'm like, obviously, I'm not buying them for myself, you know, like, do you have to ask me that? Like, just let me buy this.
Zayn Malik
You wouldn't stick, like, a couple extra, like, snacks around it. You're just like, tampon.
Unknown
We didn't have money for extra snacks. It was just needs. Needs to remain. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
Zane's like, I'll take the supers.
Unknown
These are the other way around. But, yeah, exactly. It was always an awkward conversation. But, yeah, I didn't mind it.
Zayn Malik
I respect it.
Unknown
I really don't feel sisters.
Zayn Malik
Okay. To people, obviously, that weren't there in your childhood. How would you describe your personality as a kid?
Unknown
My personality as a kid, I think I was a bit of a cheeky. Cheeky chapter. Yeah. Used to. Mischievous. Used to get into all kinds of just childish stuff, you know, like climbing in places I shouldn't have been and falling out trees and smashing windows and stupid things. Yeah. Oh, with a football, accidentally, of course. You know.
Zayn Malik
Right, right. For sure, for sure. So you were getting in trouble.
Unknown
Just like, childish stuff, you know, nothing too serious.
Zayn Malik
Yeah. Like climbing trees.
Unknown
Exactly. Yeah. Exciting shit.
Zayn Malik
Okay, so you were kind of just like, like, doing your thing as a kid. But I also think the way that you're describing the environment that you grew up, was there a way that you could have gone down the wrong path easily because of that environment? It was easy to get wrapped up in the wrong crowd.
Unknown
Oh, definitely. Yeah. I think there was always an opportunity to go and do something that, you know, would have got you in, like, serious trouble. I was really lucky in a sense that, like, my mother and father, like, were super protective of that environment. My dad was always aware of, you know, the things that were out there, and he always explained stuff to me from a young age and kind of kept me away from that, if I'm being honest. And that's where, like, I developed into being a person that likes to be by myself and, like, in my room, like, singing, recording, writing, I got into, you know, poetry and things like that. Because I was in my room a lot, like. And I didn't like to be in them kind of environments. It was just a bit too much, you know, I was always a bit more of a reserved kind of guy, a bit, you know, artistic. Wanted to do my own thing. I didn't really want to be in that. So my parents did a good job of keeping me away from it, I think. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
Did you get along with kids in school? Were you like the cool kid? Were you bullied? Like, what was the vibe?
Unknown
Yeah, I think I got on with with pretty much everyone, but I wasn't, like, I was the type of person who only ever had, like, two, three close friends. I didn't have, like, a big group. Like, I knew people, people knew of me. I don't think I was the cool kid. Yeah, but I wasn't bullied either. Yeah. Like, I. If people knew me, they were friendly with me. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
Yeah. I feel like a lot of kids, we always have that, like, memory. Maybe it's financial. Maybe it's something with the parents or the siblings or extended family, like, of. Like a childhood memory that you remember your family kind of just being, like. Like, stressed or going through something difficult. Kind of. Like, if you could remember kind of a childhood memory that you remember just being, like, stressed about something in your life.
Unknown
Like, looking back at, like, childhood stresses, like, I feel like a lot of them were so, like, finicky that it was just. Probably just some teenage. You know what I mean? It wasn't anything important. So I don't really look back at things like that. And in my personality, the way I am, like, I. I've never really, like, looked back and being like, oh, yeah, this is one thing that, like, kind of was, you know, a stressful thing. I think life is interesting like that. I think, you know, it depends on what you're going through at that time and how you feel, and then you can reflect on it at a different point and feel completely differently about it.
Zayn Malik
It's so interesting. I have a lot of respect even for you answering it like that, because I know that you've been open about, like, at one point, your family being on food stamps. And I feel like a lot of people would sit here and that may have been the answer. Right. That would have been like, well, fuck, like, I couldn't even. I didn't know where my next meal was. And you're like, oh, you know, maybe it was childish shit, like, no big deal. And it's like, that's interesting if you.
Unknown
Yeah, no, and obviously there is. There was some serious things like that for sure, too. But I don't look back at it in. In terms of a negative light. You know, it all helped to, like, shape and mold who I am and make me grateful for the things that I have now, you know?
Zayn Malik
Yeah. So we are here because you can sing. When did you first realize you were passionate about singing and you could sing?
Unknown
I think I was about 11, 12. I'd sung a Little bit before, like, I'd done a bit in. In, like, school choir and stuff. Funny story. I actually fancied, like, these three girls that were in choir, and they were triplets. And that's why I just was like, I'm gonna be in quiet just so I can hang around these girls. And then it developed from there. When I went into high school, I went to a performing arts college, like, specifically, like, majored in sports and performing arts. And they were doing the school production that year for greets, and I auditioned, and nobody could say, like, at all, like, in our whole school. And I went and did this, like, singing audition. Everyone was like, whoa, you can sing. And then my music teacher, like, recommended that I get, like, a couple of singing lessons and stuff. And then she said, I think you should go on X Factor. I think you've got a good chance. Like, and it just kind of went from there.
Zayn Malik
Like, I love that the story started with, you know, there were these three triplets, and it just felt right to join choir.
Unknown
I was, like, eight as well, by the way. Just for the record.
Zayn Malik
So swaggy, you're like, I gotta get in that class.
Unknown
Just. Yeah, spend this time, right?
Zayn Malik
So, like, your natural just, like, boy interest ended up. You realized something, that you had a true talent. From the triplets to X Factor. You made it. So it's so funny, too, because you say you wouldn't be where you are without your mom because you didn't want to get out of bed the morning that you had the X Factor audition and your mom made you go. Why did you also not want to go?
Unknown
Initially, I think it was just nerves. I built it up in my head, and I was like, yo, this is a massive thing. And, yeah, I was like, I don't think I'm gonna go today. And my mom's like, you are going. You're going right now. You're gonna go. See what happens. So, yeah, I definitely owe it to her for that, for sure.
Zayn Malik
Oh, my God. And so did you, like, practice? You were practicing for it?
Unknown
Yeah, but I had no idea, no clue. Like, they told us, like, we had to have, like, a backing track, like a karaoke version. And, like, I was so, like, inexperienced at that time that I didn't even know what that was. So, like, I was just planning on singing acapella, so I was just gonna do it, like, without anything. And it was so weird for me to adjust to singing on a backing track. I was like, this is such a weird experience. I think even Simon looked at me a little bit weird. Like when I did the acapella because everybody had backing tracks and stuff, but yeah.
Zayn Malik
So that probably made you stand out though.
Unknown
I don't know. It could have worked either way. Maybe it made me sound really bad too.
Zayn Malik
Well, obviously not. Look where you're sitting.
Unknown
Yeah, true.
Zayn Malik
Do you remember what you sang?
Unknown
Yeah, I do. Mario, Let me love you. And the reason I said that is because I've seen that performance back a few times and cringed every time. So yeah, it's not my best vocal performance. So there's a lot of nerves involved there for sure.
Zayn Malik
But clearly there was something in there. Zayn.
Unknown
There's some talent.
Zayn Malik
Yeah, there's some potential acapella and he just nails it.
Alex Cooper
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Zayn Malik
When you look back at that moment, obviously, is it, like, surreal? Like, if you even had to, like, watch it back, like, is it. Does it even feel like a lifetime ago?
Unknown
Yeah, it does. It feels like, like so much longer than it actually was because so much stuff's happened in that time. Yeah, it's very interesting, very surreal. And I. I feel all them nerves again, like, when I watch it. Like, I. I feel like I could, like, give myself a hug, you know, and be like, it's okay, bro. Because I literally, I'm like, holding onto the mic for dear life. Please nobody hurt me. It's so good.
Zayn Malik
It's so good. Good. So obviously then X Factor, everyone, Simon, everyone came to you guys and they had this idea to invent one Direction. And then I. I think people don't. I don't even know. Like, did you even meet anyone before they put you guys together?
Unknown
Yeah, we knew each other, like, just from around.
Zayn Malik
Okay.
Unknown
Because we were like, a similar age and stuff. So naturally you speak to people who, like, a similar age to you around there and stuff. And we're at boot camp together and we'd. I met Harry the. On my audition day because we both auditioned in Manchester and we were literally sat next to each other in the audition.
Zayn Malik
Oh. So it was, like, meant to be.
Unknown
He was sat right next to me. We spoke and I went in and did, like, a producing audition round. And then he Went in straight after me and we spoke a little bit there.
Zayn Malik
Yeah, so you weren't complete strangers. That's good to know because like I didn't know if they like just threw you all together and then you were.
Unknown
Like, hey, he said it very well. Obviously, you know, you don't see all behind the scenes and stuff, but yeah, you spend a lot of time with the contestants.
Zayn Malik
Okay, got it. Once you started, obviously One Direction and you joined One Direction, like how quickly did your actual life change? Was it overnight, immediate or was it a little bit gradual?
Unknown
It was kind of strange. The like visual evidence of life changing, like people being outside of the the studio and stuff was like. When we were on the live shows, we started to get like a fan base and an audience and you could see that people were paying interest in us. So yeah, from that point on, like it was kind of a bit crazy.
Zayn Malik
Like what? Were you even able to comprehend it?
Unknown
Not really. I don't think comprehended it at all. Like, I think it's just a rush, you know, it was like just fun. And then the repetitive fun over and over again eventually is going to take its toll, you know, I mean, so then you look at a certain way when you're in that and like it feels overbearing. Now look back at it like it was a rush, you know, it was, it was fun. It was. And it was something that was amazing, like so of course I wasn't going to understand it. It's not something I expected in my life. But it was definitely fun for sure. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
Because it is so interesting. I think people forget like you were 17 at the time.
Unknown
Yeah, 17. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
Like my brother lived in this house at 17 and was like picking his nose and going to Wawa and like trying to fucking get girls to pay attention to him. And you are like all of a sudden overnight become one of the biggest stars in the world. Can you help us commoners over here, Zane Commoners? Can you help us understand like what skyrocketing to that level of fame can do to you as an individual when you're like by yourself at night, laying in bed trying to understand like what is happening to you in your life?
Unknown
Yeah, you could. You can definitely get into, you know, deep places of thought if you really reflect on it in that kind of manner. To be honest with you, I don't think I was even like intellectually capable to, to do that at that age, you know, Like, I think it's took time for me to process them things. I think I've had to like process it with an, with an older mind and look at it backwards and be like, yo, this was why this happened and this is what happened. And you know, we took off at this point and this interview made this happen and then this song made this happen and just decipher it, you know, as like facts rather than like in an emotional manner. Because emotion like just seems to just blur things, you know, So I. I try not to think about them things on that kind of level. Like. Oh, I'm sorry. Super famous. Like I just make music, you know, I love singing and people seem to have an interest in it.
Zayn Malik
Yeah.
Unknown
So.
Zayn Malik
Yeah, a little bit. Just a little bit. No, I almost get what you're saying. Like you kind of have to black it out and just be present because if you stop to think about all of it, then it's all gonna come.
Unknown
Exactly. Yeah, that's how I deal with. I don't black it out so much, but I just don't overthink, you know. It works for me that way, I think.
Zayn Malik
Yeah, you just almost have to stay present because it's like, what else in the moment.
Unknown
Yeah, just enjoy it. And then like in, you know, 10 years time, you can look back and be like, this is what happened.
Zayn Malik
Like now you can look at it in hindsight and be like, if you.
Unknown
Have 10 years time. But.
Zayn Malik
Right, yeah, but you've had time probably now to be like, whoa. In your quiet moments now in life where you can actually sit and dissect things that at 17, 18 years old, again, like you said, I was just having fun. I was just going with it. And also it's not like you were just on this solo tour, like you were a part of something. So that also probably affected of like be a good team player, like go with the flow, like do what you got to do. Obviously your guys fans are insane. They're obsessed. They're still obsessed. They're everywhere. They love you guys. Can you share any like, memorable fan moments that you remember to this day that have so stuck with you of just like anything that happened that you're like, damn.
Unknown
I've. I've probably said this a lot of times, but honestly, it was one of the craziest and, and most bizarre moments ever. I remember coming out of a studio once in Sweden when we were recording what Makes yous Beautiful. And this is before even we dropped our first single and there was like a row of like maybe five, six bins, like trash cans, like outside of the studio. And I came out and like every single one of the trash cans opens, and there's, like, three people inside, and they tried to, like, grab me, and it was. It was a very memorable moment. That was for sure. Yeah. I think I had a mini heart attack.
Zayn Malik
Humans popped out from garbage cans and tried to grab you?
Unknown
Yeah.
Zayn Malik
It's like a video game, like, swallow you into the truck. Why?
Unknown
Yeah.
Alex Cooper
Oh, wow.
Zayn Malik
Do you think that in any way.
Unknown
That'S dedication, though, right, to get into a trash can like Zayn?
Zayn Malik
They were willing to get in the trash bucket for you. Okay. Motherfucker. They are loyal.
Unknown
They are.
Zayn Malik
Do you think that those kind of moments, though, not that we don't love the fans. We're obsessed, but, like, people being so obsessed with you. Like, is there any lingering paranoia from people constantly staring at you and following you? No.
Unknown
No, not really. I don't have paranoia in that sense.
Zayn Malik
That's good. You sleep well?
Unknown
Yeah, I do. I sleep in Pennsylvania. I can hear the crickets. It's amazing. There's no crazy people out there going crazy in Pennsylvania.
Zayn Malik
That's debatable. You're performing in front of massive crowds, and I know you're kind of saying, like, you were in the moment, but, like, were you able to just easily get in front of all these people? Was there no fear or anxiety that came with, like, standing in front of thousands and hundreds of thousands of people when you're on stage?
Unknown
I think there was, but I don't think we had time for it. Like, there was no. Like, you have time to have anxiety or be nervous. You're just kind of gonna go do it, you know, like, get on with it. So, yeah, we just. We can't. I think we just got thrown into the deep end, and we kind of just had to swim, you know, Like. And I feel like we did a good job, like, in terms of, like, you know, the. The keeping it together and. And making the music that we were meant to make. I think I got out at the right time. I think if it had done it any longer, it might have affected me a bit more. But I think we did the right amount, you know?
Zayn Malik
I think it's interesting, too, because when you look at bands or even just, like, any brand that has, like, multiple people attached to it, it's like everyone loves to put archetypes with people. Like the Spice Girls, for example. Perfect example. You have to label everyone. And so for a boy band, it would be, like, the boy next door. Like, the bad boy. Like, the. In. Like, the brooding one or the funny one. Like, what Persona do you think you.
Unknown
Played this make out that I was like the. The brooding, serious one. Yeah. But that wasn't necessarily my personality type. Just. I think it just a marketing scheme, you know, You've got the Teletubbies, you've got Spice Girls, you've got whatever. Like, it's just a marketing scheme, you know, like, oh, this is this one. So I get it. But I don't. I don't think you can define an entire person to one personality trait. You know, we're a little bit more complex than that. Yeah. I don't know what my trip would have been if I'd have given myself one. One. It might took a long time to come up with one if I was gonna do that. So I could see why they just said, oh, yeah, you can be the mysterious one.
Zayn Malik
Yeah. It's interesting. I love the Teletubby reference. You're like the Teletubbies, the Spice Girls, One Direction. I'm like the Teletubbies.
Unknown
Yeah. I think Simon was behind the Teletubbies too. Yeah. And the Power Rangers. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
It's so crazy.
Unknown
It's all coming from marketing plant.
Alex Cooper
Fuck.
Zayn Malik
No, but it's interesting. So I was gonna ask, like. I agree. You kind of had this, like, brooding, mysterious personality. And that's why I'm excited to sit down with you today. Because again, those stereotypes that were put onto people, I'm curious if, first of all, who comes up with that? Marketing people, I guess.
Unknown
I'm guessing.
Zayn Malik
So, yeah, it's not like the fans. It kind of just happens.
Unknown
Well, yeah, and maybe some. Some of the fans kind of like, like, naturally say this to, you know, I mean, from black pictures and things like that. Like.
Zayn Malik
So you. Did you agree. So you didn't agree with it, but do you think you leaned into it more or do you were.
Unknown
I think I just had one face to pull, you know, in. In my. I was doing the Zoolander. Like, that was it. You know what I mean? I was only a young kid. I didn't know what else to do.
Zayn Malik
I get it. If anything, maybe it made it easier because you're like, this is just my lane.
Unknown
Yeah.
Zayn Malik
This is me.
Unknown
Just stick with this. The what? Ask me too many questions.
Zayn Malik
Do you think you're mysterious?
Unknown
Not really. I just. I just like to just, like, chill, you know, like to be in the back a little bit. Yeah. I'm a bit more relaxed. I'm not like, trying to, like, be in your face, you know?
Zayn Malik
You're not trying to jump in front.
Unknown
Yeah, exactly.
Zayn Malik
Okay, well, now you're solo, so you got to jump in front. Okay. We're going to get there, take the reins. I love how you kind of mentioned, you know, you got out at the right time. And I think that you leaving the band obviously shook the fucking world. And everyone was like, zayn, like, no, like, keep it together. But I think what, again, we forget is you're a human being, and you clearly had to take care of your mental health and do what was best for you. Can you. I know you've lightly talked about this, but just so we get a full circle moment, can you just take us back to that moment of, like, actually sitting with yourself and knowing it was time to leave?
Unknown
Yeah. I think I'd known for a minute there was a lot of. Look, I don't want to go into too much detail, but there was a lot of politics going on. Certain people were doing certain things, so people didn't want to sign contracts. So I knew something was happening. So I just got ahead of the curve, if I'm being honest with you. I was like, I'm just gonna get out of here. I think this is done. And I just seen it. And I completely selfishly wanted to be the first person. Person to go and make my own record. If I'm being completely honest with you. I was like, I'm gonna jump the gun here. For the first time, I'm passive, dude. But when it comes to my music and. And my business, I'm serious about it, and I'm competitive, so I wanted to be the first to go and do my own thing. That's. That was the reason. And then there was obviously underlying issues, like, within our friendships, too. We'd been together every day for five years, and we got sick of each other. If I've been completely honest. We. We were. We were close. You know, we've done crazy things with each other and that nobody else in the world will ever understand or have them. Experiences that we've shared with each other and. And I look back on it now in a much fonder light than I would have. You know, as I'd just left, there were great experiences. I had great times with them. But, yeah, we just run our course.
Zayn Malik
I love that you're saying that too, because I think people can relate to that. Of, like, if you're with the same people. People 24, 7. No. And I think I can imagine, as you guys were younger, everyone was so idealizing this band that you couldn't say that back in the day of, like, yeah, we got sick of each other. It Was time to, like, do our own things. And I think that's so okay. But because there was this obsession, obviously. I get it. There's the style.
Unknown
Sure, yeah. It's an idea. In it, when you watch Friends, you. You don't want Joey cutting off Chandler. You know what I mean? You want these people to be best friends. Like it's an idea.
Zayn Malik
Yeah. You want them to stay together forever. But I also think it's so healthy because imagine if you hadn't ended it, then you really would have fucking hate each other and being able to go on your own way. Also, someone always has to be the first one to leave.
Unknown
Exactly.
Zayn Malik
And maybe it's the best thing for it. But in the time, I can imagine there's hurt feelings. Were you afraid of what the world was going to think of you when you made that decision?
Unknown
I don't think I was afraid. No. I just. The first thing I wanted to do was call my mom. As cheesy as that sounds. I just wanted to call her and be like, is it okay if I come home? Like, is this. Is this good? Like. And she was like, yeah. So as soon as she said that, I was like, yeah, I'm good. Like, I'm. I'm done. Like, I'm over this. I don't. I didn't really care about what anybody else thought. That's. That's the type of person I am. Like we were talking about earlier, I tried to close them opinions off. I'm not really the type of person who defines myself on other people's opinions of myself. If people know me and know me well, they know who I am. And I spend that time on them. People and make sure that they're, you know, looked after and they get that time with me rather than the people that I'm never necessarily even gonna see or, you know, have a conversation with, especially if it's a negative remark. You know, positive remarks are always nice. I don't really pay attention to either of them if I'm being completely honest with you. Just don't let it get in my head.
Zayn Malik
I think that's so smart because I think social media, even if you're not famous, like, everyone is feeding themselves and their worth by what other people are saying about them. And it's like, you good with your family? And, like, I don't mean family by blood. Like, you may not.
Unknown
Yeah. People that you have around you.
Zayn Malik
Yeah.
Unknown
Your circle. Yeah. And as long as they're good, then that's all that matters to me.
Zayn Malik
But did you not Tell your mom you were doing it.
Unknown
Did not tell my mom I was leaving. Yeah, no, it was like, kind of spurred the moment. Like, I. I'd not told her, but beforehand, like, oh, I'm thinking of leaving. I just called her on that day and that I was leaving and said, I'm coming home. Is it okay? Have you still got a bed for me? She was like, stop. Yeah, man. So, yeah, my dad wasn't so cool about it. He was like, no, no, you got to stay with Simon. Simon's gonna stay you, right? Like, don't come home. Stay there. But my mom was like, yeah, you can come home. Please, son, come home. You know?
Zayn Malik
Oh, my God. That's actually really cute that the first person like, mom, do you have a bed for me? She's like, let's go. Because didn't you also buy your mom one of the first things you did with your success is you bought her a home? How cool is that to be able to buy your mom something after everything she's done?
Unknown
It's a great feeling.
Zayn Malik
Wild. Okay, so you leave the band and take me to. When you're laying in your mom's home, you're in bed. What were those next couple weeks like for you? Like, mentally and emotionally?
Unknown
It was interesting. I was just trying to get stuff together. Like, I wanted to get, like, a plan of action. You know what I mean? So I was, like, on a bit of a mission. I wasn't there too long. I went home for a little bit, and then I went back to London and started working and stuff.
Zayn Malik
That must have been so stressful, too, because I feel like, I guess we see it in various different forms, but, like, if you make a jump, even if someone, like, quits their job, right, they're like, I need to prove to myself and other people that, like, I now can do it. Like. And so did you put pressure on yourself when obviously you came out being solo? Like, were you nervous?
Unknown
Yeah, for sure. It's a very different experience standing on stage by yourself, too. Like, it's a whole different workload as well. Singing three and a half minutes of a song completely by yourself. Like, when you've got a song divvied between five people, you're singing a little bit of a verse, maybe some ad libs, you know, I preferred the workload. I'm going to be honest. Honest.
Zayn Malik
But you're, like, taking a nap in the back.
Unknown
Yeah. Oh, yeah, Nice one. But, yeah, I just kind of had to, like, make an adjustment. I started practicing a lot more. Singing a Lot more. And just like, making sure I could sing for three minutes.
Zayn Malik
Right. You had to be like, I need to get back to my let me love you days where I'm like, back. It's just me. I'm curious and I don't know because I know you were saying, and I. I totally respect it of like, you were kind of just. Just in this phase of going, going, going. You didn't have time to stop. But when you did go solo and you left, did you have to take any moment to be like, who the am I independent of now not being a part of something that I was identified as in media?
Unknown
Yeah, definitely. I think that's why I've took the time I have to, like, not even necessarily do interviews and do too much, like, press exposure because I feel like we were so overexposed in the band that, like, it takes a bit of time for you naturally to progress as a human and give something else that is interesting that you have to say. You don't want to be sat there just saying the same on repeat, you know, I mean, day in, day out. Like, I think this should be a good, healthy break in between. And that was my approach to it, for sure. So I feel like in terms of, you know, figuring out what your identity is as. As an artist, the only way you're going to do that is by living. You know, you can't just be on the conveyor belt and expect to have any sort of experience that's new that you're going to give people.
Zayn Malik
I love that too, because I feel like people, especially creators, there's such a stress about taking a break. And it doesn't mean you're actually taking a break. You could be working.
Unknown
Still working. Yeah. You're just.
Zayn Malik
But like popping out of, not doing.
Unknown
It in the spotlight.
Zayn Malik
Yeah. And you did. Were you able to just not have anxiety about it because you're like, I know I'm coming back, but it's like, I gotta just be good on my own shit and not be fulfilling the tabloids and everyone else. Like, how am I on my own?
Alex Cooper
Right.
Unknown
Exactly. Yeah. That was all thought behind it, for sure.
Zayn Malik
So you start doing your own solo music. And I remember when you came out, Pillow Talk, all the good stuff, you popped off and it's like, really dope to see you coming out with your own sound and creative and it's you. And that's exciting to know. Like, you are producing this and it's not obviously a no shade to one direction, but, like, you're one of five like, you can't really have a full say in shit. Now this is you. When you started on your solo career, like, was there anything that you really wanted to make sure that you could bring to life that maybe you weren't able to when you were in a band? Like, creatively.
Unknown
Creatively, I just wanted to talk about things, you know, that were a bit more real, like an authentic to situations I was going through in my life. Like, obviously, certain things that we would talk about in the band was always very, you know, clean cut, like, just glazing over the top. Not really any depth or any stories to what's going on. And that was always a big thing for me. Obviously, I understand again, from a marketing skill scheme that, like, the. The audience and the fan base we were appealing to at that point was that kind of vibe. So it was never gonna work for that kind of audience. But, yeah, I just wanted to show people that I had a bit more depth.
Zayn Malik
Yeah, yeah, I get that. Because, like, even earlier you said, like, you like to write poetry, and I'm like, I can only imagine how much the writing process is therapeutic, and you get to infuse parts of your. Yourself and your identity, whereas that just, like, wasn't in the past, which it shouldn't have been. Like, it was a band, it was great, whatever. But now you can actually artistically exercise that part of yourself, which must be.
Unknown
I think it's difficult for people to write songs even from one. One perspective. You know, like, there was five of us in the room when we used to write sometimes, and it was so hard to get us all to, like, have the same viewpoint and want to talk about the same thing. So in that sense, from a creative point, it is a lot more freeing for me. Like, I can fully get to grips with every part of it. You know, the melody, the story, the production, the. The emotion, the feeling that I'm trying to convey in each song. So in. In that sense, it's super liberating.
Zayn Malik
It's cool because I. I think you're getting. Now we're getting to know you a little bit better now that you are doing solo music. But do you think. Do you think that the world even, like, slightly knows Zayn yet?
Unknown
I don't know. I. I try to, like, move in a certain way that, you know, hopefully I will still have some juice. You know, I don't want. I don't want to give everything or only one girl. So if they don't know everything yet, that's okay, but hopefully they get to know me. A bit better in this interview, you know. See, they're getting to see my thought pattern.
Zayn Malik
Still a little mysterious.
Unknown
I'm trying. I'm trying. I'm trying to be an awful. We like it.
Zayn Malik
Okay, how about this? Describe yourself in three words.
Unknown
Describe myself in three words. Well, I'm definitely not going to use mysterious as one of them. I would say a chill, funny, loving guy.
Zayn Malik
All the girls watching this are, like, so nice. That's so nice. What's your favorite thing about yourself?
Unknown
I don't know. I think. I think I like the fact that I'm pretty witty. Like, I'm pretty smart. Like, like. And I enjoy that about myself.
Zayn Malik
I think you're good company with yourself.
Unknown
Yeah. Yeah, I. I enjoy that. I'm pretty smart and I have little laughs to myself. You know about that.
Zayn Malik
What's your least favorite thing about yourself?
Unknown
I'm a bit sensitive sometimes. Yeah. Not in a bad way. Yeah, I could, like, take things the wrong way sometimes. I'm definitely working on that.
Zayn Malik
Like, give me an example.
Unknown
Like, I just. Just, like, tend to, like, if somebody says something to me, like, I'll take it the wrong way if I can really care about their opinion, what they're saying to me.
Zayn Malik
Got it?
Unknown
Yeah.
Zayn Malik
Then you'll get upset.
Unknown
Yeah.
Zayn Malik
I think that's good, though. That means you care, right?
Unknown
Yeah, like I said, with the people that are close to me.
Zayn Malik
Right. Do you think you at times can be too caring in moments that you need to learn to, Like, I'm.
Unknown
I'm learning to. To be. To be a bit more term with it. Yeah, for sure.
Zayn Malik
Little boundaries.
Unknown
No, not. Not boundaries. Just, like. I'm just learning not to, like, get in my head about certain things, you know, across the board. Like, I. I exercise that well in terms of, like, dealing with the media and things like that, but I don't necessarily do that too well in my personal life. Sometimes I take things out. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
That's good, though. Again, it does mean you care. But I get. Then you're like, yeah, but then I'm over here, like, dying inside. I gotta, like, muster up the courage.
Unknown
Then I go, right. So, song.
Zayn Malik
Yeah, yeah, put that into a song. Okay. Give us one that's, like, really sad so we can.
Unknown
Oh, I've got a few. I've got a few really sad ones. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
See, this is what we need.
Unknown
Okay.
Zayn Malik
We need some criers.
Unknown
We got some cry moments.
Zayn Malik
What do you think is the biggest misunderstanding about you?
Unknown
That I'm, like, super serious. Like, that. I, like, just. I'm, like, super Stern and serious. Yeah, all the time. When I'm not, like, I'm just chill. I know that like a lot of people have like high energy personalities and it's just not the way I am, you know, I'm saying I'm just a bit more relaxed about things.
Zayn Malik
It's actually nice to be in person with you because I could see in media, it could come off. I get it. Like serious. You're literally just chilling.
Unknown
Yeah.
Zayn Malik
You're relaxed.
Unknown
I'm just relaxed.
Zayn Malik
You're cozy in your sweater. There's thunder, there's rain.
Unknown
Pennsylvania didn't even have to drive too far. Came to your mom's house.
Alex Cooper
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Zayn Malik
No, no.
Alex Cooper
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Zayn Malik
Amounts like we.
Alex Cooper
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Zayn Malik
Let's talk about anxiety. I know that you have lightly talked about it in times, and I just want to talk to you about, like, how anxiety affects your life. What has it done in terms of playing a part in your personal life and your career. Like, just talk to me about what you're comfortable with.
Unknown
Yeah, so I think we kind of touched on it a bit earlier, like, when we're talking about, you know, like the, The. The. The nature of our job, you know, like what we were doing in the band and the situation, being on stage in front of thousands of people. I think it's a really normal place to experience anxiety, you know, like, you're gonna go and perform in front of, you know, a lot of different people that you don't know who they are. And it's not a natural thing to do, you know, in. In terms of everyday life. You don't just talk to thousands of people, you know, so it was something that I had to, you know, learn to adjust anxiety. For me, I've learned is. Is a feeling that now has a word, you know, And I feel like for generations, human beings have felt it and not really even been able to put, you know, the finger on what it is, but we overcome it, you know, and certain things in. In life can change your perspective on them things. And I think for me, like, since I've had my daughter and since she was born, like, the main thing in my mind is, like, trying to be a good example to her, like, in terms of, you know, I can do things and I can achieve things and I can overcome things, and you can do this too. And to let things like, you know, a feeling stop you from doing that after having a child feels like a really small thing. Like, I feel like I've, like, had to step up, you know, as. As. As a man or just, you know, as a person and be this example to her that doesn't succumb to these feelings. That's why I'm even doing this interview, you know, Like, I used to get a lot of anxiety around, like, having a conversation like this, just in this kind of environment, and I want her to Be able to look at me and be like, yo, my dad's doing this. You know, he's. He's the man. He's cool. Yeah, he's a cool guy. Yeah. So that's helped me a lot, for sure.
Zayn Malik
That is so fucking cool to. Obviously. My mom's a psychologist, so I grew up in. And I think mental health was not a conversation for most families, and hopefully it will be. But, like, I've watched. So my mom talked to so many people and talk them through how to get over a panic attack, how to get over anxiety, how to not get over it, but, like, manage it, live with it. Be okay to go about your everyday life. I think sometimes if you don't have anxiety, people look at people with anxiety like, just get the fuck over it. And I think it shows up in everyone's lives and so such different ways, and you.
Unknown
I don't think that's the way you can look at it. You know, I think everybody's situation is. Is individual. I think it takes an individual experience then to happen for somebody to overcome that too, you know?
Zayn Malik
Totally. If you think about the first time you can recall in your life experiencing anxiety. Did you experience anxiety prior to fame?
Unknown
For sure.
Zayn Malik
Like, take me to, like, a moment in your life where you remember being like, wow, I didn't know that was anxiety, but now I.
Unknown
But I enjoyed it. That was the thing. Yeah. Like, I enjoyed being in that feeling. And they got to a certain point, I think, where it just became too much. Like, I just was. Was weighing on me, that feeling of, like, anticipation and then getting the adrenaline and then the after feeling of that, you know, As a young kid, I loved it. Like, I loved being on stage, and I loved performing. It was like a free space for me to go and. And be a character, because it was, you know, I was playing a role in some little school performance. It was nothing serious. When it became a thing that had a lot of weight behind it in terms of, you know, people watching and stuff, then you're gonna have. You're gonna have natural feelings of anxiety.
Zayn Malik
Yeah. People staring at you, judging you, writing about you, following you, taking pictures of you. That's a lot. Can you share with us? Like. Like in the heyday of paparazzi and insanity, like, what would be something that would really trigger your anxiety in those days?
Unknown
Just the idea of, like. Like not being able to just do normal things, like, to just go outside and, like, walk out onto the street, you know, like, because where we lived, it was kind of a bit crazy and there's just people always there, like waiting to take a photo and stuff and obviously thinking about having a child and like raising her in that environment, it was just very claustrophobic for me. I didn't want her to have to be like exposed to that because she didn't choose it, you know, like it was a choice that I made. So I was like, we need to get out of here so that she can have some chance of like a normal childhood, you know, where there's not cameras flashing in her face constantly.
Zayn Malik
Let's talk about you being a father because is. It's really cool to see you talk about anxiety, which again I have so much respect for even you being able to talk about it because I know it's like you're not that public about your life and that's something that you live with every day. And to say like having a child has helped you overcome something that is like in your day to day, that's like pretty debilitating in moments. Yeah. But you being famous and having a child, like deciding to move here, I can imagine you're trying to shield her from this life that you also are still trying to figure out. Like is it a lot?
Unknown
I feel like there's, there's a, there's a healthy way to do it, you know, I'm not necessarily trying to shield her from it cuz she's, she's going to know, you know, if she's going to get to a certain point, she's going to have a certain level of awareness. You don't know what's going on. I'm just trying to give her an option, you know, so it's like a choice for her. Like if she, she wants to be away from it, she can be out here. Like because I am a famous person and I get sanctuary, you know what I'm saying? So I feel like she is gonna have a lot of options and whatever she wants to do in her life, obviously I'll support her for sure.
Zayn Malik
Okay. How has becoming a dad shifted your priorities in life?
Unknown
The, the crazy thing is obviously I have a 50 of the time. So that time I have with her is so important because I feel like she's growing up so fast. Like so when I'm with her I don't work like at all. I just spend a full day with her doing the things that she wants to do like, like painting, play, doh. This, that, go to the park, go to the theme park, go to the zoo. Like we just have fun like. And I feel like I'VE like, re being rekindled my own childhood, like, through her. You know what I'm saying? Like, I feel like we get to a certain point in. In adult life where everything's kind of vague and gray and boring and she's brought that color back for me for sure. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
What is a dad quality that you've proudly taken on that makes you laugh a little when you think about it? Of, like, oh, my gosh, I can't believe I'm doing this.
Unknown
I keep being told I'm telling dad jokes and I'm leaning into it. I'm just like, it's okay. It's cool. Like, I'm using, like, Christmas cracker jokes and stuff. And it's really funny. Like, people just look at me like I'm a weirdo. I'm like, yeah, I'm a dad and I'm allowed to tell these jokes. You have to give me a pass. Gosh.
Zayn Malik
Wow, Zane. I didn't expect that. I'm not gonna lie.
Unknown
I love a dad joke.
Zayn Malik
You're like, full dad vibe.
Unknown
That's it. Yeah. I'm going. Going full.
Zayn Malik
I love how you're like, I'm fully leaning in. There is no stopping me. Okay, well, you haven't cracked one here, so if you want to, you can always give us your best. But you know, when it feels we'll say.
Unknown
We'll say that for another time.
Zayn Malik
What is your favorite thing to do with your daughter?
Unknown
My favorite thing to do with her is she shows a lot of signs of, like, musical intelligence already. So I just love, like, playing instruments with her and singing with her. Like, I'll sing and she sings along and she can do, like, good harmonies and stuff already. And she's only two and a half. Like, and she harmonizes with me well. And, like, finishes notes and she can hold them for a long time. I'm like, I think you might have a bit of ability.
Zayn Malik
You I'm picturing the two of you, you playing with play doh. And you start singing, and then your daughter starts singing.
Unknown
You can hit these high notes, like, false settle. Like, yeah, it's crazy. I'm like, yo, like, whoa, you're good. I couldn't do this. I didn't speak till I was three.
Zayn Malik
How the do you think?
Unknown
Yeah.
Zayn Malik
Wow.
Unknown
And she remembers, like, full lyrics to songs as well. Like, every word it's mud.
Alex Cooper
Wow.
Zayn Malik
We got a superstar in our hands. Okay. Okay. It's interesting to hear you say, like, you're singing to her, which, like, would have loved if my dad could have sang. He can't. What are you singing to her and like, what are her favorite songs that you sing?
Unknown
She loves Disney movies, so we sing a lot of Disney songs together. Sing like you've got a friend in me and stuff. She sings really cute.
Zayn Malik
Honestly, that's really cute. Thinking about you guys singing that. What qualities of yourself, aside from like, having that. That musical aspect? More like personality. Like, what qualities do you see from yourself and your daughter?
Unknown
I think she's. She's. She's funny. Like, she. She's a bit of a cheeky one. Yeah. She likes having a bit of a joke and stuff and, like, laugh a lot. She's. She's chilled though. But she loves reading as well, which is something I think she definitely took from me. Like, she just has a affinity for words. Like, she remembers everything. Everything.
Zayn Malik
Has becoming a parent changed your relationship with your parents?
Unknown
Definitely, yeah. In. In a. In a, like, respect way. You know, like, you. You just have so much respect for the things that they've put aside for you. You know, like when you realize all the sacrifices that you make as a parent, like, just to be there and be present with your child, like, you can't have nothing but respect for that.
Zayn Malik
I know you said, like, obviously you have her 50 of the time. You want to make the most of these moments. Like, what's something that you guys have done together recently that made you so happy and you had, like, such a great time.
Unknown
We went to Nickelodeon in. In New Jersey, which is really good. I enjoyed it. I know it's like super childish, but, like, I had a lot of fun. Yeah, I think I had more fun than it was. Good.
Zayn Malik
That is so good. How is co parenting going?
Unknown
Co parenting is. Is good. Yeah. We have a really good relationship for Kai. She's the, the, you know, the main importance.
Zayn Malik
Yeah.
Unknown
So, yeah, it's going well.
Zayn Malik
Yeah. Yeah. Okay. I think Zane's like, from.
Unknown
From me. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
Okay. So I want to ask you if I can ask one question just about, like, as delicately as I can go about it. I feel like I wouldn't be doing my job if I didn't ask about the 2021 incident. I know you can't really speak on it. I think obviously as a man, you, like, there was a lot out there said about you and you basically took the high road and didn't say anything. And you kind of put out that, like, blanket statement of just like, I want to respect my daughter and not say anything.
Unknown
Exactly. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
And I can imagine how difficult it is kind of like Almost a culmination of everything we're talking about today of like, how do you balance when something is out there about you, about your character, that people are reading and speculating and saying things about you, and how do you decide when you. When to speak up and when to like, be silent and like, chill on it and not really go there?
Unknown
Yeah. So for me, like, like we were talking about earlier, I don't tend to get involved when people say things online, whether it's got something to do with me or whether it doesn't. Because for me, my most valuable thing that I have in life is time. And that takes so much time in, In. In a toxic environment to like, explain yourself to people and justify this. And so I just kind of to keep to myself. I knew what the situation was. I knew what happened, and the people involved knew what happened too. And that's all I really cared about. If anybody, you know, of, Of a same mind would look at the situation, I believe that you could respect that. Like, I just didn't want to bring attention to anything, you know, I just wasn't trying to get into a negative back and forth with her. Any sort of narrative online where my daughter was going to look back and read that and be able to read into it, and it would just be something that was. There was no point. I. I believe I dealt with it in, in the best way, like in an amicable, respectful way. And that's all that needs to be said, you know? Yeah, I just, I feel like it's a lot of negativity, you know, I.
Zayn Malik
Can only imagine, like, first of all, no fucking family is perfect. And so to be on the stage that you guys are on, I.
Unknown
And like you said, your family issues, you know, like, if something happens in the family, like, I'd rather keep that between the family, you know, you don't need a whole audience of people and opinions because, yeah, it's hard enough to manage between two.
Zayn Malik
I. More so just also wanted to give you the chance because I think you obviously handled it so amicably. I also think in doing my job, like this is a podcast where I'm trying to support women, right. And like reading headlines, like, I wanted to hear from you, obviously, because hearing you even today, I don't know if, like, I'm just gonna say what it is. Like you have said you have 50 custody. And so anything that has, we've all read online, like, well, if that was true, then that would have affected that. So I think it's important to just say, like, me Doing my job. I just wanted to clarify. Like, it's not, like, unless you can correct me, like, you don't have to have people with you while you're with your daughter. And, like, visitation rights, like, oh, yeah, you have custody of your child.
Unknown
Yeah, yeah.
Alex Cooper
So I think it's just important to.
Zayn Malik
Say because people are reading this being.
Unknown
Like, oh, yeah, no, for sure. Yeah. And I'm super full on. Yeah. Like, hands on with my child every chance I can be. If I could get 60, I would have it. Yeah.
Zayn Malik
Okay, let's talk about your music. You're coming back. We're getting a song. Tell me what inspired the song. What can we expect?
Unknown
Give it to us. Yeah, so I'm working. Well, I've been working on my record for a minute, and I have a single for the summer coming out called Love like this. That's like a standalone song, just a summer jam. It's a good vibe. Like. Yeah, it just feels like summer.
Zayn Malik
That's what I think we need.
Unknown
We do need a good summer.
Zayn Malik
We just need a bop. Like, someone asked me recently, like, oh. Like, what's the song of summer? And I actually said, you know what? Like, I'm interviewing someone, and I know. I know they have a single coming out. I have a feeling that could be the song of summer. Are you nervous to go on stage, like, alone?
Unknown
I was, yeah. Like, when I first started, like, performing by myself, I was. I was nervous. And I'm still nervous now because it's been a few years that I've been on stage, but I have this, like, energy too. Like, I feel like I have something to give and I want to get on stage and be there again and feel that. That's one thing I can say, you know? Like, my fan base has always been supportive in that manner. They're always just like, we're here, we've got you. Like, when you're ready, we've got you. You know, like, come. We're gonna. We're gonna come and listen to your tune. So, yeah, no, I gotta be super, super thankful for that, and I'm super grateful, and I feel that love for sure. So I'm ready to. To prove these people right, you know?
Zayn Malik
Can we expect any music inspired by your daughter on your records?
Unknown
Yeah, definitely. Yeah. I'm. I'm doing a. I'm doing a record. I don't think people are really gonna expect. Like, it's a different sound for me, and it's got some, like, more narrative going on, like, real life experiences and stuff. So, yeah, my Daughter's mentioned in there a couple of times.
Zayn Malik
Wow. I think that's gonna be so dope to actually hear from you in long form, essentially, because an album is in long form, like, we're gonna get. Get to know you more, which is exciting. Again, because Mr. Mysterious over there, we're still trying to understand, okay, what is something that you want your fans to take away from this interview?
Unknown
I'd like my fans to feel like they got to know me a bit because you keep saying I'm Mr. Mysterious. Yeah. No. So I'm. I'm hoping they got to know me a little bit and the. The feeling like they've seen me and caught up with me a bit and, you know, they're going to see me a lot more, like. And I want them to know that, like, across the board, like, I've kind of had a full, like, mental rehaul and in the best way, thanks to my child and, you know, being able to see things in a different light. And I'm going to be a lot more present and hopefully people are going to see me a lot more.
Zayn Malik
I love it.
Unknown
Yeah.
Zayn Malik
Zayn, thank you so much for coming on Call Her Daddy. This was truly a pleasure. Pleasure.
Unknown
Thank you for having me.
Alex Cooper
Hi, Daddy gang. It is your father. I am so excited that Caller Daddy has officially joined the Sirius XM family. I cannot wait to talk to new guests and continue to share my crazy personal stories and experiences with you every single week. If you want to hear new episodes ad free, subscribe to SiriusXM podcasts on Apple Podcasts to start your free trial today, Call Her Daddy is brought to you by Tinder. Spring and festival season is upon us, Daddy gang. It is time to get on Tinder and take a chance on matching. With a new crush on Tinder, it has quite literally never been easier to find a new person with the same music interest. Shoot. I mean, maybe even someone who introduces you to something new. Okay, maybe you're not even just getting a date. Who knows? Maybe you're getting a whole new set of plans and set of things to do. Okay, but you better throw a couple likes their way or you'll never know. Explore all possibilities for yourself on Tinder. It starts with a swipe. Download Tinder today.
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Call Her Daddy Podcast Summary
Episode: Zayn: For the First Time in 6 Years (FBF)
Release Date: May 16, 2025
Host: Alex Cooper
In this highly anticipated episode of Call Her Daddy, host Alex Cooper sits down with global superstar Zayn Malik for an in-depth conversation. This marks Zayn's first appearance on the podcast in six years, offering listeners a rare glimpse into his personal and professional life since departing from One Direction.
Zayn begins by sharing his reasons for relocating from the bustling environment of New York City to the more serene suburbs of Pennsylvania. He explains,
“I fell in love with Pennsylvania because it was super calm and chill, something I needed after living in the chaos of New York for three years” (03:17). This move was partly influenced by his desire to create a stable environment for his daughter and distance himself from the relentless paparazzi presence in major cities.
Discussing his typical day, Zayn outlines a balanced routine centered around his daughter and musical pursuits.
“I wake up around midday, take a shower, eat, and then head to the studio to work on my records until bedtime” (09:24). He emphasizes the importance of maintaining personal space and managing his time effectively to nurture both his creativity and fatherhood.
Zayn delves into his upbringing in Bradford, UK, highlighting the challenges and influences that shaped his identity. He reflects,
“Growing up in an impoverished community in Bradford taught me resilience and helped cement my own identity” (15:30). As the only son among three sisters, he learned responsibility early on, often supporting his sisters by running errands like buying tampons—a task he approached with a blend of awkwardness and dedication.
Zayn recounts his early passion for singing, which blossomed during his school years.
“I auditioned for X Factor because my music teacher saw potential in me,” (24:00) he explains. Despite initial nerves, his performance on the show was met with positive feedback, setting the stage for his future in music.
Reflecting on his time with One Direction, Zayn describes the sudden shift from a typical teenage life to global stardom.
“Being suddenly famous was surreal. At 17, I couldn’t fully comprehend the rush and the responsibilities that came with it” (32:24). He shares memorable fan interactions, including a startling moment in Sweden where fans emerged from trash cans to greet him—a testament to their unwavering dedication.
Eventually, citing the need for personal growth and creative freedom, Zayn made the pivotal decision to leave the band.
“I wanted to make my own record and explore deeper, more authentic themes in my music,” (50:03) he states. This move, while difficult, was essential for his mental well-being and artistic expression.
A significant portion of the conversation focuses on Zayn’s struggles with anxiety, both during his time with One Direction and afterward.
“Performing on stage in front of thousands naturally brought about anxiety, but becoming a father shifted my priorities and helped me manage these feelings” (58:23). He emphasizes the importance of mental health awareness and his journey towards balancing fame with personal well-being.
Zayn opens up about his role as a father, highlighting the profound impact his daughter has had on his life.
“Spending time with her, engaging in activities like playing instruments and reading together, has rekindled my own childhood joy” (64:40). He proudly shares how fatherhood has shifted his life priorities, fostering a deeper sense of purpose and happiness.
Looking ahead, Zayn discusses his solo music career and upcoming releases.
“My new single 'Love Like This' is a summer jam that reflects my personal growth and experiences,” (72:56) he reveals. He articulates his desire to infuse his music with more personal and authentic narratives, distancing himself from the more sanitized content produced during his time with One Direction.
Addressing past controversies, Zayn explains his approach to managing public perception and rumors.
“I chose to handle negative rumors quietly to protect my daughter's perception of me,” (69:47). He underscores the importance of focusing on his immediate family and personal well-being rather than engaging with toxic online narratives.
In wrapping up the interview, Zayn expresses his hope that fans gain a deeper understanding of his true self beyond the "mysterious" persona often portrayed in the media.
“I want my fans to feel like they really know me and see the positive changes I've embraced, especially through fatherhood,” (75:03) he concludes. Zayn leaves listeners with anticipation for his new music and a renewed connection with his audience.
This episode of Call Her Daddy offers a candid and comprehensive look into Zayn Malik's life post-One Direction. From his relocation for a peaceful family life to his ongoing solo music career, Zayn shares heartfelt reflections on fame, mental health, and the joys of fatherhood. Listeners gain valuable insights into his journey of self-discovery and the importance of staying true to oneself amidst external pressures.