Former One Direction member Zayn Malik, in his first-ever concert in Mexico, performed an emotional rendition of the band's 2014 song, Night Changes. The concert, which was held at Palacio de los Deportes on March 25, was a part of his Stairway to the Sky world tour and comes after former member Liam Payne's untimely death in October 2024.
Surprisingly, his recent concert date coincided with the date of his exit from the boy band 10 years ago, on March 25, 2015. The band had announced Zayn's departure on March 25, 2015.
Zayn Malik was the first member to exit the band, as he moved on to pursue a solo career in music. One Direction went on a hiatus in August 2015, and the members went on separate career paths.
After singing the song, Zayn addressed his audience, saying,
"I haven't sung this song in 10 years. Thank you, that was amazing. I almost cried..."
Zayn's performance went viral on the internet and moved the One Direction fandom, who are still mourning Payne's death.
"some songs just hit different no matter how much time passes" - a user noted
"Bro’s promises left faster than my motivation to work out" - another user mentioned
"I can’t believe this is happening 🥺😭" - another user expressed
"He wanted to change the narrative of this day!!! Go Zayn Go!!!" - another user mentioned
"Liam, I have found myself talking out loud to you" - Zayn Malik's tribute to Liam Payne
Liam Payne's death on October 16, 2024, at 31, shocked the One Direction fandom, and former members took to their social media platforms to pay tribute to the late singer.
Zayn Malik took to Instagram to pen a heartfelt message, hoping that Payne would hear him.
"Liam, I have found myself talking out loud to you, hoping you can hear me."
He went on to thank Payne for supporting him through some of the "most difficult times" in his life." Malik also paid tribute to Payne at his Leeds concert in November, with a sign that read, "Liam Payne 1993-2024 Love you bro."'
His Leeds tribute came three days after he attended Payne's funeral alongside other former bandmates: Harry Styles, Louis Tomlinson, and Niall Horan. Payne's funeral marked the first time the group was seen publicly together after the band disbanded in 2015.
Zayn Malik had also postponed dates for his tour to cope with the "heartbreaking loss" of his friend and former bandmate.
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