Zayn Malik has had a big year thus far, and his momentum only continues to build. Earlier in 2026, he wrapped a Las Vegas residency, marking a major step in his comeback while also igniting anticipation for a new era as he gave fans an early tease of a few new tracks.
Malik’s fifth studio album, Konnakol, was released on Friday, April 17. Ahead of the release, Malik debuted the final single, “Sideways,” and it is certainly one for the books. If the track offered any indication of the album’s broader mission, it set expectations remarkably high.
It’s endearing that Zayn is tapping into his South Asian roots with the title, as it is front and center on the album. It offers insight into the themes of the upcoming album, with Zayn being more open and expressive, whether that be through his expanding and opening up about cultural ties or by showcasing a more intimate setting in his lyrical journey, especially in this album.
The song explores themes of sensuality intertwined with yearning, a combination Malik has mastered. His skillful presentation of these emotions has been on display since his earlier works, such as “BoRdErSz” and “Flight of Stars,” among many others.
Malik’s soulful voice, accompanied by gentle piano keys, opens the verse with a sense of tenderness and longing. The delicate instrumentals draw listeners into a new world, fully capturing the raw emotion that cuts deep: “You’re so revealing / You’re here but you’re not tonight.” In the opening verse, the reflection on emotional distance and desire sets the tone for the rest of the track. As the 33-year-old ventures into more mature themes and unexplored facets of his discography, the setup reflects the evolution of his artistry.
As the music builds toward the pre-chorus, the melodies swell and envelop the listener in warmth, mirroring the frustration and vulnerability of love slipping away. With the lyrics, “Yeah, you play games with love until it’s gone / You never get enough,” the intensity feels almost tangible, an ache that listeners can’t help but absorb.
Malik belts, “I miss lookin’ at you sideways / face-to-face with your lips on mine,” a line that instantly sticks in your head. The beat is catchy and smooth, perfectly matching Malik’s sassy tone as he reminisces about what once was. It’s the kind of moment that makes you nod along, maybe even throw in a “frat flick,” if you’re feeling confident, or just grin at the memory he’s evoking.
The hunger and craving feel like a forbidden desire everyone shares, something all too familiar. It’s the essence of being trapped in a “situationship,” as Malik is pulled back and forth. Malik hums “Then dangle your words like diamonds / They cut me, but I see through,” a line that, oddly enough, is comforting, as even mega pop stars like Zayn Malik have to endure the lowest of lows of being trapped in his own version of a Carrie-Big relationship.
As the track winds down, the sense of yearning is only heightened. “And it hurts me to watch you stay / And I know what it’s gonna be” offers listeners a moment of clarity, a nod to the reality of this rather than an escape into delusion.
No matter what the rest of the tracklist focuses on, one thing remains certain: Malik masters the art of mixing R&B and soul into one, creating a beautiful, orchestrated and catchy theme that will stay with the listener for weeks to come.
If this single has proven anything, it’s that Malik is only getting started and has a lot more to say about love and his current standing with it. With that being said, calendars all over the world are being set for the release day of his album!
