While he was still a part of One Direction, the British lad could only reach No. 2 on the chart with 2013's 'Best Song Ever'.
- February 9, 2016
AceShowbiz -
Zayn Malik is clearly doing just fine without One Direction. Nearly a year after he announced his departure, the British singer released his debut solo single "Pillowtalk" and it has just outperformed every single he'd ever done with his former bandmates.
Arriving at the end of January, the sultry slow-tempo jam lands at No. 1 on this week's Billboard Hot 100 with 267,000 downloads, this year's best-sales week so far. As part of One Direction, Zayn could only reach the chart's No. 2 with 2013's "Best Song Ever".
After learning of the news, the 23-year-old heartthrob took to Twitter to thank fans. "What is gwaning :) !! I can't explain the love and gratitude i feel today, thank you for making this happen," he wrote. He also posted on Instagram a photo of him celebrating the feat with some balloons.
What is gwaning :) !! I can't explain the love and gratitude i feel today, thank you for making this happen
— zayn (@zaynmalik) February 8, 2016
"Pillowtalk" is the first offering from Zayn's upcoming solo album. Titled "Mind of Mine", it's scheduled for release on March 25, the same day he left One Direction last year.
Drake is another highlight from this week's chart as his new single "Summer Sixteen", from his highly-anticipated "Views From the 6" LP, makes its debut at No. 6. Rihanna's "Work" that features a guest verse from the Canadian rapper follows behind at No. 7, rising from last week's No. 9.
