Zayn Talks Love and Self-Discovery In New Album 'Room Under The Stairs'
Through a thrilling journey of love into the core of his being, Zayn Malik has demonstrated his growth as a musician and his dedication to genuineness in his musical craft. Presenting an entirely exposed and fresh aspect of himself, the album goes into problems related to healing, moving on from the past, and personal development. Speaking about the album that was just released, the singer said, “I think the intention behind this album fully is for the listener to get more insight on me personally as a human being, my ambitions, my fears, and for them to have a connection with that and that's why it's so raw. It's just me.”
Photo by Daniel Prakopcyk
“What I Am” is a song that talks about wanting to escape a toxic relationship but also appearing like he wants to return or stay in it. With heavy country alternative sounds, and lyrics such as “Am I crazy? / Am I foolish? / Am I stupid for playing these games with you?” He is questioning his feelings towards a partner. With his recognizable voice, he makes himself vulnerable in this song.
The song "Grateful" discusses all that has happened to a person in life, regardless of how much of it has been wrapped up. This song has an important theme of acceptance, emphasizing the need to be thankful for whatever life has thrown at you. In an interview with Zach Sang, the singer shared “Because even in the darkest moments, you’re still learning from something and you’re overcoming things, in terms of what it means for me being grateful, the song is that. For every experience that has led me to this place and helped me hopefully develop into a better human.”
The folk and country sounds of "Stardust'' provide a sense of space and stargazing with the one you love most. “Feels like stardust / Floatin’ all around us / Shootin’ right across a / Big black sky” are cliché lyrics, however, the song is so dreamy that it doesn't matter.
The dreamlike quality of this song is what makes this track a perfect concert sing-a-long just in time as the beloved singer is ready to perform the first show of his solo career. In songs like “False Starts”, Zayn suggests a lifestyle that is fast-paced and talks about past regrets in life as he sings “Watchin' my life just roll back”. However, this song also reflects on personal growth and a desire for secrecy about decisions and the urgency to change circumstances or leave a certain environment.
The album is a journey that Zayn is sharing with the world as he has spent the last six years writing songs for it in his home studio in a rural area of Pennsylvania. These tracks demonstrate his clear artistic growth as he explores themes of healing, introspection, and his personal growth. The album is out now on all streaming platforms.
