Remembering One Direction's ‘Four’ — Their Last Album with Zayn Malik
In November 2014, One Direction released their last album with all five members. Titled Four, this record hinted at significant changes ahead. This 12-song album, featuring four bonus tracks, marked the end of an era for the beloved boy band.
All group members contributed writing credits, showcasing a mature sound. The high-energy songs from The X Factor days had been replaced with themes reflecting real-life romances. A standout track from Four is "Stockholm Syndrome," which Niall Horan continues to perform despite the members now pursuing solo careers.
Let’s explore the impact of Four on One Direction's legacy.
The Journey to Four
One Direction formed in 2010 on the U.K.’s The X Factor. Though they didn’t win, they became a global sensation. Their debut album, Up All Night, arrived in 2011 and included pop hits like "What Makes You Beautiful."
For their sophomore record, Take Me Home, One Direction began to display slight maturity without significant sound experimentation. While the catchy "Live While We’re Young" broke through, tracks like "Little Things" showcased their evolving style.
With the 2013 release of Midnight Memories, the group underwent a significant shift. Emphasizing rock influences and featuring Horan on guitar, One Direction sang about personal memories and women in a "Little Black Dress."
The Release of Four
The release of Four in 2014 foreshadowed greater changes for fans. Kicking off with the single "Fireproof," the album received mixed reviews. Critics noted the boys' evolution into a more mature sound. However, drastic alterations occurred shortly after when Malik announced his departure in March 2015.
The remaining four members released one final album, Made in the A.M., in 2015. Following this, the group entered into an indefinite hiatus.
Significance of Four
Initially, Four didn’t appear monumental, yet some fans believe it's the best One Direction album. After Malik's exit, the depth and significance of the lyrics became more evident. The title wasn't initially important, but hints of change within the band began to surface.
The album features "You & I," renowned for its high note only Malik could hit. Styles attempted to sing this part after Malik's departure, and his expression at that moment conveyed the difficulty.
The number four has gained particular significance among fans, fueling speculation it hinted at Malik’s exit from the band.
Reception
Opinions on Four varied upon release. Fans often consider it the band's finest work. Conversely, critics expressed mixed feelings. Rolling Stone awarded the album three stars, indicating it primarily exhibited musical growth.
Billboard described the album as One Direction's "awkward phase." They pointed out that elements of their traditional pop style clashed with more mature tracks. Us Weekly provided a more favorable perspective, disagreeing with this assessment.
The Aftermath of Malik's Departure
Malik officially left One Direction in March 2015, marking a turning point for the group. On their Facebook page, they assured fans that Styles, Tomlinson, Horan, and Payne were committed to one final album together.
One Direction's final performance occurred on December 31, 2015.
Solo Paths
Following the separation, Malik launched his solo career first, releasing four albums. Styles followed in 2017 and has released three albums since then. Horan also began his solo path, producing three records, while Tomlinson has dropped two albums.
Payne's solo work included one full-length release in 2019 before his unfortunate passing in October 2024. He fell from a balcony at an Argentina hotel at age 31. His death was investigated but was not ruled a suicide.