Zayn Malik

          Zain Javadd "Zayn" Malik, is a member of One Direction, born 12 January 1993, is from Bradford, West Yorkshire, England. Born to British Pakistani father Yaser and an English mother, Tricia Malik, he has one older sister, Doniya, and two younger sisters, Waliyha and Safaa. He grew up in East Bowling, was a pupil at Lower Fields Primary School, and went to Tong High School, a state comprehensive school. Malik did not fit in at his first two schools due to his mixed heritage, and after moving schools at the age of twelve. Malik states he started taking pride in his appearance.

          When he was 17 years old, Zayn auditioned in Manchester for the seventh series of The X Factor. During his audition, he sang "Let Me Love You" by Mario. All three judges — Simon, Louis, and Nicole — gave him a 'yes'. His audition was initially not broadcast, but was later shown on “The Xtra Factor”.

         Zayn was noted for becoming nervous in boot camp. When he was told he had to dance, he decided to remain backstage, effectively running the risk of elimination. Later on, Zayn said it was a lack of confidence that caused him to run away.

        Following The X Factor, One Direction signed a record contract with Sony Music subsidiary Syco Music. They released their studio album, Up All Night.