Zayn Malik Opens Up About Racism In a New Song

Zayn Malik has long been candid about the challenges he faced as a Muslim and Pakistani member of One Direction. The singer has now opened up further about the racism and Islamophobia he endured during his time with the band.

So, in a teaser for an upcoming track posted to Instagram on Friday, Malik appears to address the discrimination he experienced. The ex-member raps over a laid-back hip-hop beat, sharing his feelings.

The lyrics, which Zayn Malik later shared on his Instagram Story, include the line, “Do you remember every conversation? ‘Cause I have been conscious of every connotation.” These words hint at the struggles Malik faced in One Direction. Hence, they suggest that despite the group’s that, while global success they did not offer an entirely welcoming environment.

Zayn Malik and the Experience of Racism

Malik did not provide a release date for the song but added “coming soon” over the video. Thus, the singer built anticipation among fans. The “white band” referenced in the lyrics is likely One Direction. So, the group enjoyed unprecedented success, releasing four albums before Zayn Malik left in 2015, with the remaining members releasing “Made in the A.M.” “Made in the A.M” became their last song before the band went on an indefinite hiatus in 2016.

During the peak of One Direction’s fame, Malik was frequently subjected to racist and Islamophobic rhetoric. The internet was rife with hurtful and baseless accusations. Among them were false claims linking him to the 9/11 attacks or ISIS. Malik has previously spoken about these experiences in a 2015

The Fader cover story, in which he expressed his frustration with the public’s assumptions. Malik expressed that he is just a normal person following his religion and living a normal life. He also felt proud to be the first person in his position.

Malik’s solo career has continued to flourish, with his 2024 album “Room Under the Stairs.” The album reached No. 15 on the Billboard 200. The LP features the track “Fuchsia Sea,” which shares a title with the teaser but contains different lyrics. It’s clear that Zayn Malik continues to use his platform to reflect on his personal journey. He aims to cover One Direction days in his ongoing exploration of identity, race, and artistry.