After being photographed in the studio with Frank Ocean producer Malay, Zayn Malik has confirmed that he's signed to RCA - and has upset One Direction fans by using the hashtag "#realmusic" in the announcement.
Malik left the band in March, after taking a break from touring. In a statement posted to the band’s Facebook page, Malik said: "My life with One Direction has been more than I could ever have imagined. But, after five years, I feel like it is now the right time for me to leave the band. I'd like to apologise to the fans if I've let anyone down, but I have to do what feels right in my heart."
Yesterday, R&B producer Malay, who's previously worked with Frank Ocean, Tune-Yards, Angel Haze and John Legend, posted a picture of Malik in his studio, alongside a caption which describes Malik as a "co-worker."
Now, Malik has confirmed that he's signed with RCA, who also look after Beyonce, Everything Everything, Miley Cyrus, MO, Pharrell Williams, Sia, Snoop Dogg and Usher.
Over several tweets, Malik explained, "I guess I never explained why I left , it was for this moment to be given the opportunity to show you who i really am! #realmusic #RCA!!", adding, "#REAL ME."
— zaynmalik (@zaynmalik) July 29, 2015
Malik was previously working with Naughty Boy on new music, but they swiftly parted ways after Naughty Boy was said to have leaked Malik's demo video.
