While You Were Sleeping: Zayn Malik Just Signed With His New Record Label

While you were probably dreaming of him, Zayn Malik took to Twitter to clear why he left One Direction just 4 months ago. You might remember him saying he was leaving the band to become a normal 22-year-old. But it looks like there's another reason why.

I guess I never explained why I left , it was for this moment to be given the opportunity to show you who i really am! #realmusic #RCA !!

— zaynmalik (@zaynmalik) July 29, 2015

And this isn't something that happened just overnight. According to Simon Cowell, this record deal is something they've been working on for some time.

We have been working on this for a while and I am pleased to say congratulations to @Zaynmalik on signing with @RCARecords

— Simon Cowell (@SimonCowell) July 29, 2015

I believe they are the perfect label for @ZaynMalik’s solo career and I am sure whatever they release together will be special.

— Simon Cowell (@SimonCowell) July 29, 2015

To give you an idea of RCA Records' roster of artists, A$AP Rocky, Alicia Keys, Bleachers, Britney Spears, Christina Aguilera, Daughtry, Foo Fighters, Foxes, Hilary Duff, Imogen Heap, Justin Timberlake, Kelly Clarkson, Kodaline, Magic!, Miley Cyrus, Pentatonix, Sia, Tinashe, and Walk the Moon are just some of them. Zayn is definitely in good company. He's ready to make "#realmusic" as he calls it. Are you ready to meet the real him?

#REALME

— zaynmalik (@zaynmalik) July 29, 2015

Not to say that One Direction isn't producing real music. (Hello, have you heard the track that's rumored to be on their 5th album?) Maybe Zayn just wasn't feeling the kind of music they were putting out as a band. And we understand. You do you, BB.

TBH, we're quite curious as to how this album is going to sound like. Zayn has a beautiful voice (we miss your high notes, El Maliko!) and with the right producers, we're confident that he'll come out with a great first solo record. Here's hoping we won't have to wait too long.

Are you happy about the big news or were you still hoping Zayn would come back to One Direction? Leave a comment to share your reaction or tweet us @candymagdotcom!