On March 25, 2016, Zayn Malik, former One Direction star, dropped his newest album, "Mind of Mine." "Mind of Mine" is the #1 album on iTunes and has received great reviews from multiple different critics. Zayn released his album one year after leaving his former band, One Direction. After receiving both support and hate from his fan base, "Directioners" and "Zquad," his album seems to be a great success leaving fans content with his creation. Writing every song on the album, Zayn gathered inspiration from multiple outlets during his year off, creating his first solo masterpiece.
1. MiNd Of MiNdd (Intro)
This 57 second song previews the genius he puts in this entire album. His vocals and the chill music work so well together. (Take note, Harry.)
2. PILLOWTALK
PILLOWTALK was the first single Zayn dropped in late January to announce his album. It sky rocketed in the charts, which helped publicize his big move to releasing his newest solo album. PILLOWTALK is also the most popular song on the album
3. iT's YoU
iT's YoU was the second single release in February. With a slow beats and his killer voice, this song will surely end up on your "Sunday Slow Jams" list in no time. Also, there was a music video released. Dear God.
4. BeFoUr
"Four" is the last album that One Direction released with Zayn as one of the members of the group. The song is basically talking about the glamour, and moving on. Shots fired to 1D? Take a listen and decide for yourself.
5. sHe
It was rumored that Zayn left 1D to fix his relationship with fiancee Perrie Edwards, a member of Little Mix. After calling off the engagement, he focused on his music and clearly got inspiration for a song or two as a result of it. Is this song about Perrie or Gigi, his new girlfriend?
6. dRuNk
Fans believe that this song is about Gigi and his new happiness with the relationship. I also think that it's a "drink high," resembling his crazy success happening so quickly that he's living it in a blur, so it's good to pause. A little hard to explain, but I think it's mainly about his new chapter in life.
7. INTERMISSION: fLoWeR
This song is one of the shortest ones on the album, and has a completely different sound compared to the rest of the songs on the album. It carries a sort of Middle Eastern beat, which I think adds to his resume of being versatile with different genres.
8. rEaR ViEw
rEaR ViEw is a more upbeat song on the album. Again, his creativity with incorporating newer and older music techniques and lyrics make his music seem like nothing comparable to others.
9. wRoNg
wRoNg is a personal favorite. This song features Kehlani, a recently discovered artist from Oakland. The artists come from different genres, but this song came together very well. The collaboration was something I wasn't expecting.
10. fOoL fOr YoU
Slow song. Amazing riffs. Creative genius.
11. BoRdErZ
Another one of the faves on the album. The ending to the song is really different too.
12. tRuTh
This song reminds me of John Legend, his type of flow and way he sounds. A slightly upbeat slow jam, a deep soulful voice, and a few high pitched riffs in there are ways he shows his creative genius.
13. lUcOzAdE
I get a sultry, chill vibe from this single. It sounds very similar to what other current artists are producing.
14. TiO
More of a darker sound, TiO adds a slightly different vibe to this album compared to the other songs that have a similar beat.
15. BLUE
BLUE has a different spin. I can't put my finger on what to call this type of genre, but it's relaxing, and his vocals range so much with such a strong control. It's also another slow song.
16. BRIGHT
BRIGHT sounds like a song Naughty Boy would produce. Multiple beats, sounds, lyrical changes, and various bass changes. Not something you could dance to at a party, but definitely something you can head bob to.
17. LIKE I WOULD
Another personal fave. Another head bobber, with a little body roll here and there. This song is too great. LIKE I WOULD is the second most popular song on the album.
18. SHE DON'T LOVE ME
SHE DON'T LOVE ME. But who doesn't love this perfectly crafted piece of perfection? I'll love you for her. This is a fun upbeat song. I'm a fan of head bobbing and this is definitely a song I can get into.
Zayn has steered away from the "Poppy Teen" sound, from being a former 1D babe, and made his voice and ideas help him come back into the limelight again. If this isn't a declaration of independence, I don't know what is. I'm obsessed with this album. It's an album where you don't have to skip tracks to find the next "good one." Fun Fact: Zayn added a "Tour" tab to his website. Keep an eye out for dates! Good on you, Zayn! I will forever be a fan girl.
