Zayn Malik has been dropped by Simon Cowell’s label Syco ahead of him releasing any solo material, according to reports.
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It means Zayn won’t be label mates with his former One Direction bandmates when he eventually unveils new music.
Simon Cowell is said to have made the decision out of loyalty to 1D stars Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson after Zayn quit the band.
Zayn Malik
A source told The Sun: “It’s a big move for Simon because Zayn could have a very successful solo career but his priority absolutely remains the band and this is a big statement on his part.”
Zayn is going too far though and will move to another label within the Sony empire for his solo first release.
A Syco source said: “Simon has set up a deal that suits Zayn and One Direction.
“Zayn will stay in the Sony family under a different label and it’s totally with Simon Cowell’s blessing.
“It was just felt to be a bit difficult to have 1D and Zayn on the same label — and everyone felt it was better for him to be somewhere different.
“Since leaving the band, Zayn has changed management and lawyers so it would kind of make sense for him to work with a new label team.
“But having said that, he still gets on great with Simon.”
Simon Cowell with Zayn and his former One Direction bandmates
Zayn also has brand new management to help mastermind his solo career.
He has cut ties with Modest management who look after One Direction in favour of Turn First Artists, who manage Rita Ora, Ellie Goulding and Iggy Azalea.
Earlier this week, Zayn lashed out at his former pal and collaborator Naughty Boy, following leaked clips of what appears to be his ‘No Type’ music video, a collaboration with rap duo Krept & Konan.
The former One Direction singer had some not-so-nice words for the producer as it seems that he thinks the producer could be responsible for leaking the clips online.