Zayn Malik gets emotional singing One Direction's 'Night Changes' in Mexico on 10th anniversary of departure from boyband

Zayn Malik delivered an emotional performance during his first-ever concert in Mexico as part of his Stairway to the Sky world tour. On March 25, the former One Direction star took the stage at Palacio de los Deportes, and one particular moment captured the hearts of fans across the globe—Zayn performed "Night Changes", the iconic track from his boyband days, for the first time in a decade.

The performance came just days after the tragic passing of Liam Payne, Zayn’s former bandmate, adding another layer of poignancy to the night. As he closed the song, Zayn addressed the audience, saying, “I haven’t sung this song in 10 years. Thank you, that was amazing, I almost cried…”

The powerful moment quickly went viral online, as fans were moved by Zayn’s vulnerability and tribute through music. For many, the performance symbolised a full-circle moment in Zayn’s career—ten years after leaving One Direction in 2015, he returned to one of the band’s most beloved tracks in front of a roaring crowd.

Zayn’s solo journey has seen him evolve into a distinct voice in pop and R&B, but his return to One Direction’s catalogue—especially at such an emotional time—shows his lasting connection to the group’s legacy and the bond he shared with his bandmates.