The story of Zayn Malik's life is veering into solo territory.
After quitting One Direction on Wednesday, the 22-year-old crooner is already embarking on a solo career with Naughty Boy, The Sun learned in a recent interview with Malik. Naughty Boy was a producer on Sam Smith's mega-successful debut album In the Lonely Hour and, together, they created "La La La."
A solo career for a departed boy-band member isn't uncommon (think Justin Timberlake, Robbie Williams and Nick Jonas, for example), and Malik's vocal chops -- with his smooth tone, adventurous runs and occasional falsetto -- are primed for a one-man musical act.
"It is crazy and wild and a bit mad," Malik told The Sun after leaving One Direction. "But at the same time, I’ve never felt more in control in my life. And I feel like I’m doing what’s right, right by myself and right by the boys, so I feel good."
There's no word on when Malik's solo music will be released. Meanwhile, One Direction will continue touring as a four-member group, with plans to put out another album san Malik.
Here's a supercut of Malik's solo efforts during One Direction performances:
BONUS: The 20 best reactions ever to Zayn leaving One Direction