Zayn Malik speaks on new music, home city Bradford and identity: ‘I’m a very Northern man’

Zayn Malik has given an exclusive interview with the Big Issue, which goes on sale this week to support vendors experiencing or at risk of homelessness.

In it, he talks about his new album due to be released in May, Room Under the Stairs, and how his thoughts have turned back to the place he spent his early years before he became famous with One Direction.

Click here to buy your copy of the Big Issue featuring Zayn’s exclusive interview.

Zayn’s latest single, “What I Am”, was released last month. Asked about its message, Zayn said: “I’m reflecting on the way that I approach situations rather than necessarily a correlation to what my original identity is. It’s just growth as a human being. I’m a man, you know; that’s what I’m talking about.”

Zayn goes on to consider how his childhood, growing up in the Yorkshire city of Bradford has influenced his life.

He said: “I do remember being really young, probably seven or eight years old, and deciding that I wouldn’t spend my entire life in my hometown. I wanted to do something unique and worthwhile.

“My original nod towards the start was that I wanted my parents to have a better house. We lived in a rented property our whole upbringing and I wanted to give them a better quality of living. So that was the original intent behind it, and then when I got to about 17 or 18, I wanted to forge my own path, write my own story and go out and see the world.”

The interview arrives as Zayn becomes an ambassador for BradfordCity of Culture 2025.

Zayn said: “For Bradford to get some kudos or spotlight on them is something I’m happy about, and if I can encourage that in any way, then I’d love to be a part of it.”

Zayn also explains how over time he has realised and come to value his northern identity.

“I always initially knew how much Bradford had influenced me, even when I came to London to do The X Factor. I was instantly introduced to many different characters that I had not come across before and quickly realised that my personality and the way I am is very Northern.

“Now as a 31-year-old man, after living in America for ten years, I’ve definitely come to terms with the fact that I’m a very Northern man, which heavily influences my personality and decision-making on a daily basis.”

In a special edition of Big Issue, Zayn has assembled a range of voices from Bradford to share how the city has also shaped their lives. Contributors include Steven Frayne aka magician Dynamo, award-winning producer and artist Nia Archives as well as teachers, school students, an NHS nurse and more.

To read more from Zayn, buy a copy of the latest Big Issue magazine, with exclusive portraits taken for the cover and interview.