Global pop star Zayn Malik has revealed that he was far from a natural talent when he first started singing, admitting in a recent podcast interview that he “was really rubbish” as a child.
Speaking ahead of his upcoming fifth solo album, the former One Direction member appeared on the Call Her Daddy, hosted by Alex Cooper, where he reflected candidly on his early musical journey.
When asked how he copes with being a beginner despite his global success, Malik said he actively seeks out new challenges. He explained that he enjoys the early stages of learning something new, even when he is not immediately good at it.
“That’s why I get into so many weird random things,” he said, noting that the process of gradual improvement motivates him. “I enjoyed the beginning stage of not being good at something and then seeing the progression over the years.”
The “PILLOWTALK” and “Dusk Till Dawn” singer said his childhood passion for music was not rooted in natural ability. Instead, it developed through persistence and practice.
“I was really rubbish. I couldn’t sing at all,” he admitted. “I had to work hard and practice.”
Malik, who grew up in Bradford, said he has always been driven by progress rather than instant perfection. While acknowledging that perfection does not truly exist, he described his pursuit of it as something that sometimes “drives [him] a little bit insane,” but ultimately fuels his creativity.
The remarks offer a rare glimpse into the artist’s mindset as he prepares to release new material, underscoring his belief that growth often begins with struggle.