Zayn Malik was off the grid for months after the split with his former band One Direction. Now it has been nearly a year since Malik left. Rumors of original music and the releasing of an album have been surfacing ever since. “PILLOWTALK” is his first original single.

The timeliness was soon after One Direction’s “History” music video, with the appearance of old videos containing Malik. After recent interviews with Malik about the band, it was clear that he was not interested in making the same kind of music they were; this was obvious in his new single without a doubt.

Malik has strayed from the typical pop that One Direction is classified under and has landed on R&B. The smooth and relaxing vibe in “PILLOWTALK” is extremely different to One Direction’s album “Made In the A.M.” When Malik was addressed about the songs One Direction had on the first album not including him, he expressed that it wasn’t his style anymore.

As a first single, it hinted at what is to come from the inevitable music that will be released this year from Malik. With a powerful chorus and background music that accents his voice, the song is likely to be a success along with the music video.

The music video was released along with the single last Friday. This was also a big step for Malik’s career. His video required Malik to have his own Vevo account, ZaynVevo.  The video included famous model Gigi Hadid who is also Malik’s new girlfriend.

For old and new fans, the new song was an adjustment for all and exceeded expectations. After the leaking of his “No Type” cover, people were on edge waiting for music.

Although “PILLOWTALK” was a good launch to his career, when comparing the vocals to other songs he has been featured on he did not emphasize his vocal range. On his album, expected to drop within 2016, I hope he will utilize his singing abilities.