Zayn Malik Finally Reveals Why He Left One Direction, Kicks Off Solo Career at RCA Records

Former One Direction member Zayn Malik just announced that he has signed onto RCA Records for his solo career and he is finally explaining why he left the boy band!

The 22-year-old singer, who made the biggest announcement this year that broke 1D fans' heart when he decided to quit the band last March, revealed that he is ready to show people who he "really is," Mirror reported.

Announcing the news on Twitter on Wednesday night, he posted a photo of him signing a record deal with the caption: "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 #REALME(SIC)" The Guardian has learned

According to E! News, Simon Cowell who has been the mentor of One Direction ever since their career began, congratulated Malik on the big solo move, tweeting, "We have been working on this for a while and I am pleased to say congratulations to @Zaynmalik on signing with @RCARecords. I believe they are the perfect label for @Zaynmalik's solo career and I am sure whatever they release together will be special."

According to Mirror, a source shared, "It's a big move for Simon because Zayn could have a very successful career but his priority absolutely remains the band and this is a big statement on his part. Simon also set up a deal for Zayn and One Direction. Zayn on the other hand will stay in the Sony Family under different label and it's totally with Simon Cowell's blessing."

The source added, "It just felt to be different to have One Direction 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."

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