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The ensemble’s debut single, What makes you beautifulrocketed to the top of the charts worldwide and went on to sell millions of copies of their first album, Up all night.
The group released their fourth and final album together, titled Fourin 2014. Malik left the group shortly afterwards. Payne and the remaining members released another album a year later before going on an indefinite hiatus.
Payne recalled the devastating impact of Malik’s departure in a 2015 interview, saying, “I think given Zayn’s specific departure and the way he chose to go, we haven’t really heard from him since he left.
“He didn’t even say goodbye, if I’m honest. It was a very nasty scenario, especially on our part. A bit strange. It’s difficult.”