Mind of Mine
by ZAYN
  • Record Label: RCA
  • Release Date: Mar 25, 2016
User Score
7.9

Generally favorable reviews- based on 1008 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 787 out of 1008
  2. Mixed: 61 out of 1008
  3. Negative: 160 out of 1008
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  1. vjonathan13
    Feb 3, 2020
    10
    this album is so good, i love so so so so so much and recmmended for y'all guys ;)
  2. Gamaliel21
    Aug 28, 2019
    10
    Just the best album ever. The voice, the style, the vibes and the lyrics. Just a masterpiece, one of the best debuts.
  3. ondxrection
    Sep 18, 2019
    10
    se orgulho matasse eu estaria mortinha com esse primeiro álbum solo do meu amor! BÍBLIA
  4. Rads
    Aug 31, 2019
    10
    Wow the lyrics is awesome and Zayn's voice oh my god just wow i thank god that he become a solo after i heard this album
  5. TomiD123
    Sep 5, 2019
    10
    Probably the best debut album ever. He isn´t afraid of his past fans loving or hating the album. He´s searching for something new, unique for him. He found it. He opens his mind to the world, the real him. and it´s amazing! His voice is one of the best!
  6. Jinxxnij13
    Dec 6, 2019
    10
    Hands down the best debut album released by One Direction singer with a perfect production and amazing vocals.
  7. bibimar
    Dec 6, 2019
    10
    Álbum coeso e bem trabalhado para um debut. Zayn dispõe de características muito promissoras como artista, só precisa encontrar um caminho para torná-las marcantes.
  8. SmokyEmily
    Dec 13, 2019
    10
    Absolutely amazing. I'm sad I took so long to listen to this masterpiece. Zayn smashed it. Not a single skip on the album. Beautiful. My favorite song is TIO
  9. jessr
    Dec 14, 2019
    10
    A masterpiece! Mind of Mine proved to me that Zayn Malik has a promising future.
  10. nyazkilam
    Dec 25, 2019
    10
    i love this album, is incredible, is amazing, is wonderful, is art, this album is perfect.
  11. Shuo
    Jan 11, 2020
    10
    Not better than Icarus Falls but its still is a banger and plus always nostalgic to go back and listen to the complete album
  12. bekeridou
    Jan 11, 2020
    10
    Fortune favors the bold boy-bander—or at least the first one brave enough to walk away. Less than a year after he exploded the Internet (and countless tender tween hearts) by announcing his departure from One Direction, Zayn Malik scored the one thing that always eluded the multiplatinum Brits Stateside: a Hot 100 No. 1. That single, “Pillowtalk,” wasn’t exactly a game changer sonically; aFortune favors the bold boy-bander—or at least the first one brave enough to walk away. Less than a year after he exploded the Internet (and countless tender tween hearts) by announcing his departure from One Direction, Zayn Malik scored the one thing that always eluded the multiplatinum Brits Stateside: a Hot 100 No. 1. That single, “Pillowtalk,” wasn’t exactly a game changer sonically; a stuttering, headily atmospheric bedroom jam, it mostly served to recast him as his own grown man, dropping articulated F-bombs and describing all the things he could do “dirty and raw” now.


    In exit interviews, Malik made it clear that 1D’s sunny, studio-polished pop sound never really aligned with his own tastes, which were formed more by Usher and R. Kelly than by the rock-centric reference points his former bandmates shared. He also revealed that he had enlisted James “Malay” Ho, a producer best known for his Grammy-winning work with Frank Ocean, so it’s not completely surprising that Mind of Mine—the I-am-solo-hear-me-roar insistence of the title is hard to miss—feels like such a smoothly inclusive survey in modern R&B.

    More than a few tracks, especially the thrumming “Truth” and dreamy “Drunk,” conspicuously echo Ocean’s Californiacool ennui. (Malik actually relocated to Los Angeles last year, though his Golden State sounds like a twilit place he mostly occupies between midnight and 4 a.m.) “Befour,” “TiO,” and “Like I Would” lean headfirst into sleek, Weeknd-style hedonism; “Wrong Place” slips in an early-2000s Usher moment; and the falsetto seduction “Bordersz” could be vintage D’Angelo. There are a few outliers: Sam Smith will probably wish he’d written the lush piano ballad “Fool for You,” and bonus track “Do Something Good Today” is one bong rip away from a full Bob Marley mood board. Maybe most intriguing is the delicate, Middle Eastern-tinged interlude “Flower,” sung entirely in Urdu. (Though he might currently be the most high-profile Muslim entertainer in the Western world, the half-Pakistani singer generally refuses to discuss his faith. Google ugly search terms like “boy band jihad” if you wonder why; or better yet, don’t.)    … Expand
  13. Walls
    Jan 25, 2020
    10
    Great album!! Great songs!! Such a beautiful voice he has!! Definitely worth listening!!
  14. Anacarolina18
    Jan 28, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Ok zayn malik i just wanted to thank you for this album, it is all the best… Expand
  15. elist91
    Feb 1, 2020
    10
    The album is a masterpiece, Zayn has a huge talented and that people should appreciate more..
  16. MarianaMattza
    Jan 31, 2020
    10
    Zayn Malik surprised everyone with this album. The first single "Pillow talk" has a billion views on youtube and is so catchy. This R&B sound in his voice is a masterpiece. I still think he deserve more recognition than he already has.
  17. cipriano
    Feb 6, 2020
    10
    Zayn delivered his ideal work, with strong and warm compositions and yet a sound that comes to be ideal for listening to the album all day. That's the kind of work I expected after the one direction came out.
  18. KHgB88
    Feb 8, 2020
    10
    Great debut album by Zayn!
    Wished it was a little bit longer though but it has its bops (pretty much every one) The only one that I still don't like that much to this day is Do Something Good which is in the deluxe edition if I'm not wrong. It kinda has a reggae vibe (so probably that)
    We can see what is his style ;)
  19. acebalthazar
    Mar 29, 2020
    10
    this album art. he is the real genius of our time. his music will live eternal. your angelic voice and your angelic soul compete.
  20. paigeprivee
    May 16, 2020
    10
    A standout debut album. He definitely showed his range vocally and across genres. It's one of my favorite albums of the decade.
  21. Chars
    Nov 24, 2020
    10
    Zayn's debut solo album is one of the best debut, from the intro up to the last song. No doubt, Zayn is indeed a great artist.
  22. thayssouza00
    Jul 29, 2020
    10
    mind of mine is one of the most original albuns i’ve heard. thank you zayn malik for that!
  23. matthewjoseph_
    Aug 2, 2020
    10
    For a first solo album, my god was it an incredible way for Zayn to solidify himself as a solo artist. It was so different from what we had heard of him in One Direction, but this was truly him. This album showed off his authenticity and undeniable talent while also being so individual. I like how Zayn never really has features, and for his only feature on the album being Kehlani, I wasFor a first solo album, my god was it an incredible way for Zayn to solidify himself as a solo artist. It was so different from what we had heard of him in One Direction, but this was truly him. This album showed off his authenticity and undeniable talent while also being so individual. I like how Zayn never really has features, and for his only feature on the album being Kehlani, I was over the moon. Their voices together is like bread and butter, a criminally underrated pairing. Mind of Mine was such a high quality album that deserved so much more praise and appreciation than it received. If you have any spare time on your hands, you must listen to this album!… Expand
  24. tomboyi
    Aug 2, 2020
    10
    com toda certeza esse álbum vai envelhecer bem tal como os vinhos..... já era pro zayn estar no r&b há muito tempo, enfim, álbum maravilhoso!
  25. Louboo25
    Aug 30, 2020
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. The album truly shows ZAYN's versatility. From sexual songs like 'PILLOWTALK' and 'TiO' to heartfelt songs like 'fOoL fOr YoU' and 'iT's YoU', you can find any emotion in his songs.… Expand
  26. Fernandinha
    Sep 5, 2020
    10
    Sua potência vocal é o forte do álbum, que é maravilhoso, com canções profundas e sexys.
  27. Zaynsfineline
    Sep 13, 2020
    10
    Vocally and lyrically one of the best albums of the decade. He's been vulnerable with his audience and it shows.
  28. ncoutinho
    Oct 18, 2020
    10
    só sla eu dou minha vida por tudo que esse homem faz é sempre impecável o amo
  29. eniyielf
    Jan 15, 2021
    10
    exactly the best debut album in this century. zayn a successful songwriter for our generation. i love him. my top she, lucozade, sdlm
  30. vol6tbsl
    Jan 14, 2021
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Exceptional. It is unbelievable how he managed to stray away from his boy and image and release this beautiful r&b album.… Expand
  31. MeenalKaushal
    Jan 16, 2021
    10
    WHAT A DEBUT
  32. music_muse
    Jan 16, 2021
    10
    it's been 5 years now since this album came out but it still hits the most unexpected spots. Mind of Mine's purpose was to make a statement and it did. The impact, the hype was all worth it. Zayn's soulful vocals and serenading lyrics is what makes this album one of a kind.
  33. Alexandreds
    Oct 24, 2022
    10
    As Zayn’s first project after going solo this is a pretty solid album. It’s very experimental and very much leaned towards pop R&B sound. Zayn’s vocals are all on point and his lyricism is beautiful. I wish he had included Golden and Do Something Good to the official album. They would definitely improve the overall quality of the album.
  34. yunarielle
    Jan 16, 2021
    10
    I still play this album till this day. It was a great way to jump start his solo career with hits like pillowtalk. The album is really good and a perfect album to play at night while driving down the city/downtown
  35. Riz_wannn
    Jan 16, 2021
    10
    A great album. Completely different from one direction vibes. More mature content and R/B feels is amazing.
  36. Hdeel7
    Jan 26, 2021
    10
    Wooooowwwww this is such a perfect album, kudos to you ZAYN !! Can't wait for ur next projects duddee
  37. Allyislistening
    Feb 8, 2021
    10
    Very impressive and solid debut album ! Zayn vocals are incredible ! He's so talented, his voice is so smooth...The production of the album is incredible. Wrong with Kehlani is such a banger ! TIO too and Pillowtalk....My favorite is drunk but all the songs on this album had the potential the be a real banger. Zayn deserves so much recognition for his work ! He is so underrated !!!!!
  38. arianator16
    Mar 20, 2021
    10
    This album is just perfect. And its a debut album! Every song is so mysterious and interesting. TiO, Bordersz, Befour and Truth are my favorite. Like i would makes me wanna dance. It’s you is such a beautiful ballad. Zayn’s voice is so mesmerizing and soothing. Drunk is so relaxing.. makes me feel like its summer night and i am on a beach
  39. Sunsetfayy
    Mar 20, 2021
    10
    Best debut album ever. He really made this album in less than a year and put his whole heart and soul into it. He deserves the best.
  40. Zeeyan
    Jun 22, 2021
    10
    Never listened to an album that you want to listen everytime and just can't get most of it. Best album ever
  41. bbcah
    May 21, 2021
    10
    This is the best album I've ever heard. Love it so much! Zayn gives himself to us with Mind of mine
  42. Brightcyp12
    Nov 21, 2021
    10
    mind of mine es mi álbum favorito sin duda para mi es un buen álbum bright y its you son mis favoritas
  43. TNTubeSock
    Sep 8, 2021
    10
    I’m not even a huge Zayn fan, but this was one of the first albums I have listened to in a long time where I generally enjoyed every song. Fantastic album.
  44. CharGo
    Sep 17, 2021
    10
    Sin duda su debut como solista fue excelente, ¡No puedo parar de escuchar este álbum!
  45. cinnamongirl97
    Oct 15, 2021
    10
    Best debut album by a ex-band member of all time. Such a shame that critics did this album so dirty. Mind of Mine is the first time we saw who Zayn was. He opened up his heart, put out an incredible skipless album. His debut single Pillowtalk showed why he had to leave One Direction, on It's You he wrote one of the most honest lyrics I have ever seen. He served vocals with Fool For You,Best debut album by a ex-band member of all time. Such a shame that critics did this album so dirty. Mind of Mine is the first time we saw who Zayn was. He opened up his heart, put out an incredible skipless album. His debut single Pillowtalk showed why he had to leave One Direction, on It's You he wrote one of the most honest lyrics I have ever seen. He served vocals with Fool For You, made the collab of the year with Wrong, made the sexiest song with TIO. Drunk was a bop, Rear View was vulnerable, Blue was heart-breaking. I also liked the fact that he used cultural elements. If I could change one thing about this album, it would definitely be the album cover. Zayn made history with his debut album!… Expand
  46. RudradeepDas
    Dec 16, 2021
    10
    Mind of Mine Is one of the Best Album in the Music Industry, an incredibly versatile album with great tune and lyrics, vocals on the albums are just awesome.
  47. felipemuniz
    Jan 19, 2022
    10
    I admire how he could start his solo career with an amazing album as mind of mine is! Intro (should've been longer), intermission (which he brings his origins to this song) and a such incredible ending: she don't love me.
  48. sebastianglz
    Mar 25, 2016
    9
    With a mix of The Weeknd's sound and lyrics, ZAYN's Mind of Mine it's a different face of Malik's work in One Direction. As it happened with Miley Cyrus' Bangerz, he wants to left the image he had with the band.
  49. shellbelrowe
    Mar 25, 2016
    9
    I LOVE Zayn & at first I didn't really expect much from his debut to be completely honest, I thought it would be a glossed over album that everyone would toss aside but he surprised me. For one thing he's singing music that's compliments his voice, and he's carving his own niche which proves a sign that he's serious and wanted to be a singer from the get go. The only negative thing I canI LOVE Zayn & at first I didn't really expect much from his debut to be completely honest, I thought it would be a glossed over album that everyone would toss aside but he surprised me. For one thing he's singing music that's compliments his voice, and he's carving his own niche which proves a sign that he's serious and wanted to be a singer from the get go. The only negative thing I can say about this album is that all the songs sound the same. I'm sure there's the room for him to experiment more on his second album.

    Other than that this album is solid it really delivered!
    I recommend it to anyone! ( I bought a copy )    … Expand
  50. JohnMcQ
    Mar 26, 2016
    9
    Zayn's vocals are truly exceptional in this album. This album is mature with regards to its sound and production. It has a certain Frank Ocean feel to it but, however, fails to impress lyrically. The album is also quite long and could have been leaner and more precise. Overall, this is beautiful piece of work with special mentions to the songs- Like I Would and It's You.
  51. isthatbrandon
    Aug 22, 2016
    9
    Overall, Mind of Mine is a very impressive album. There are a few songs which I'm not really into, but for the length of the album that's not really surprising. Zayn delivered many great songs, such as Wrong and Borderz
  52. chooch
    Mar 27, 2016
    9
    people wanna evaluate zayns album for lyrical prowess and intellect—but that was never the plan

    if you went non stop for 5 years without any break and you finally had some time to think for yourself would it come out in an organized and articulate fashion? zayn never claimed for this album to be what people want it to be—the exact opposite of one direction–what it was supposed to    people wanna evaluate zayns album for lyrical prowess and intellect—but that was never the plan

    if you went non stop for 5 years without any break and you finally had some time to think for yourself would it come out in an organized and articulate fashion?

    zayn never claimed for this album to be what people want it to be—the exact opposite of one direction–what it was supposed to be—and actually is–is a true reflection of where he is in life, a lyrically vulnerable expression of his past his present and his future

    he said it himself, mind of mine is a brainstorm, where hes experimenting with different sounds; a culmination of the craziness hes experienced so far

    mind of mine is not trying to be anything else but a reflection of who zayn is, and that takes courage

    if music is what he truly loves, then this album was extremely therapeutic for him and hes starting to truly process everything, and i love that; its a privilege to be able to hear the music that is bringing him back to who he is, hes sharing his journey with us, and thats more than i could ever ask for

    eta: im seeing peoples tags, and i want to add that this album *actually is* lyrically strong, but i think people were expecting /refined/ lyrics, but thats not where he is right now, and instead of forcing it, he shared where he is, and thats nothing short of genuine and fearless.    … Expand
  53. freakybb2
    Mar 28, 2016
    9
    A highly anticipated album and Zayn did not disappoint. His melodic, well controlled voice is evident on all the tracks especially on It's You, Fool for You, the urdu Intermission : Flower (i wish this was longer..would have loved a full song), Rearview, Wrong. Definitely looking forward to more things from Zayn.
  54. reachthetree
    Mar 28, 2016
    9
    If you've listened to One Direction pre-Made in the AM, you already know that Zayn is a talented singer. But on Mind of Mine, not only does his vocal ability shine in its full glory – it also becomes evident that he is an excellent songwriter. The album, to me, comes off as heartfelt and well thought-out. It's also versatile, both in musical styles and in moods. You have Like I Would, aIf you've listened to One Direction pre-Made in the AM, you already know that Zayn is a talented singer. But on Mind of Mine, not only does his vocal ability shine in its full glory – it also becomes evident that he is an excellent songwriter. The album, to me, comes off as heartfelt and well thought-out. It's also versatile, both in musical styles and in moods. You have Like I Would, a catchy bop, you have It's You, a crooning ballad, and you have various shades of modern r'n'b all throughout. And the moods are important, too: Zayn has gone from being toned down and whitewashed in One Direction, to singing in urdu and keeping a beard on his face, and singing about **** and how "it's time you see the truth". The song Befour sounds to me like a **** you" to anyone who was rude to him after he left: "so say what you wanna say/shame is that you won't say that to my face". But there's a gentle side to the album as well, like in Drunk, where he sings "right now I'm emotional" and "I hope I haven't said too much". I also find it very sweet how he in the sexually explicit Wrong (ft Kehlani) not only says "I'll get her wetter than ever" but also "clothes off and she's so soft".

    Mind of Mine is a very atmospheric album, and the only reason I gave a nine instead of a ten is because I believe this is only the beginning for Zayn.    … Expand
  55. RaamGurung
    Mar 29, 2016
    9
    nothing much to say...this album is an incredible start for zayn's solo career..it may not yet be at Justin Timberlake's level but the effort and genuineness is seen throughout the album. The vocals are brilliant. he will go a long way.
  56. Malia
    Mar 31, 2016
    9
    This was a fantastic debut by any standards. Standout vocals, some really brilliant production. While his lyrics may have let him down a few times, he's proving more than capable of doing bigger and better on the next album. I really liked that this wasn't a throwaway album like Purpose. The latter's singles were the only songs worth listening to. Whereas this album works far better as aThis was a fantastic debut by any standards. Standout vocals, some really brilliant production. While his lyrics may have let him down a few times, he's proving more than capable of doing bigger and better on the next album. I really liked that this wasn't a throwaway album like Purpose. The latter's singles were the only songs worth listening to. Whereas this album works far better as a whole, although I find a new favourite each day. I'm excited about his potential! Well done!… Expand
  57. Ninalx
    Mar 31, 2016
    9
    For a debut and no doubt a brainstorm of ideas, the album is amazing. Id say he is the best male vocalist out at the moment with incredible versatility. As for the lyrics, at times are sloppy but overall pretty good and he can only improve from here. Im sure people will right him off without a proper listen and there is so much lazy journalism out there towards this album, but hey, theirFor a debut and no doubt a brainstorm of ideas, the album is amazing. Id say he is the best male vocalist out at the moment with incredible versatility. As for the lyrics, at times are sloppy but overall pretty good and he can only improve from here. Im sure people will right him off without a proper listen and there is so much lazy journalism out there towards this album, but hey, their loss.
    The stand out songs for me are; borderz, blue,drunk, befour and the intermission;flower sang beautifully in Urdu.    … Expand
  58. Katiexxx
    Apr 12, 2016
    9
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Enjoyed this album immensely, especially Wrong and Drunk. Flowers which was in urdu was a really beautiful song as well. Majority of the lyrics were good and most songs had a good beat. Importantly his voice and his high notes were amazing.… Expand
  59. Cley
    Mar 25, 2020
    9
    Mind of Mine is a amazing album,Zayn is much better solo than in One direction.
    The Album has amazing song (Pillowtalk,Rear View,Like i Would,etc...).
    Zayn has a spetacular Vocal and differents shades in the songs.
    It´s a great begin to Zayn....
  60. itsrenanyall
    Jun 23, 2016
    9
    Oh my God, this boy blew my mind, this songs are much better than all of 1D's albums. I'm really glad he left, I love most of the songs of this album, TiO is my favorite!
  61. selma0304
    Oct 30, 2016
    9
    Really love Mind of Mine. I've never liked 1D and didn't expect anything but was really pleasantly surprised. It's really a solid album, full of great songs. His vocal range is astounding. Favorite songs are Truth, Flower, It's You and Blue. It's an album with longevity, I still listen to it frequently and can see myself still listening to it in 10 years. Only weakness: some of his lyricsReally love Mind of Mine. I've never liked 1D and didn't expect anything but was really pleasantly surprised. It's really a solid album, full of great songs. His vocal range is astounding. Favorite songs are Truth, Flower, It's You and Blue. It's an album with longevity, I still listen to it frequently and can see myself still listening to it in 10 years. Only weakness: some of his lyrics about sex; I think his introspective lyrics, about his feelings are better and more relatable. Not a fan of Fool For You and Like I Would but love all the other songs. Can't wait for his 2nd album. He's very talented.… Expand
  62. bandtrash
    Feb 16, 2017
    9
    Zayn made a good decision by leaving One Direction because this is so much better. Personally, I consider this the best debut album I've ever heard because the way he plays with his voice is just beautiful. Every song is really good because he just knows what he's doing and he's not afraid of it. The lyrics - it's something expectable coming from a guy in his early 20s and it feels good. IZayn made a good decision by leaving One Direction because this is so much better. Personally, I consider this the best debut album I've ever heard because the way he plays with his voice is just beautiful. Every song is really good because he just knows what he's doing and he's not afraid of it. The lyrics - it's something expectable coming from a guy in his early 20s and it feels good. I am not ashamed to say that I totally fell for Zayn and his voice and I can't wait for other music.… Expand
  63. keznambhe
    May 13, 2017
    9
    i listened to find out what the hype was about and i'm amazed by this boy lol why did i take so long to listen to this. it was a nice experience my fav songs are definitely drunk ( amaazing production and adlibs), blue (beautifully heart-wrenching) and rear view , seems like it's about himself in the chorus so that definitely makes it a bit sad but at the same time it's calming? goodi listened to find out what the hype was about and i'm amazed by this boy lol why did i take so long to listen to this. it was a nice experience my fav songs are definitely drunk ( amaazing production and adlibs), blue (beautifully heart-wrenching) and rear view , seems like it's about himself in the chorus so that definitely makes it a bit sad but at the same time it's calming? good debut, there's room for improvement though but not to worry it's just his first, i'm looking forward to more of his work… Expand
  64. Dork123
    May 13, 2017
    9
    Amazing amazing album that hasn't aged at all, even though it has been out for over a year. So many songs have a story to tell and are clearly a reflection of the difficulties he went through in the past. Alongside that there are some fun tracks such as: she, tio, bright and like i would. Theres only a one or 2 tracks I would class as fillers so all in all, an amazingly consistent album.
  65. hazz
    May 13, 2017
    9
    This guy is going to be great ! His music is honest. I'm amzed by his vocals. Befour , My favorite track are Rear view & befour, the lyrics are absolutely grat and his vocals are o points ! He is going to be great !
  66. Ddepaz
    May 13, 2017
    9
    He really blew me away with this album, I thought he would struggle more in the process of 5 to 1 but honestly, when you listen to Mind Of Mine is like Zayn was born for if. The melodies and the vocals were for me the outstanding factor but his lyrically ability is shown multiples times on tracks like Rear View, Blue, Lucozade, etc!
  67. ube1kenobi
    May 13, 2017
    9
    After one year of its release MoM is still a banger when played in my car. You can feel his blood, sweat, and tears in this album...the frustration of getting his voice out there when in 1D, yeah he was there, but was heavily muted (e.g. backup vocals). Here he shows his strengths in this album, but in return (that is outside from the album) we also saw his vulnerability. It's a shame thatAfter one year of its release MoM is still a banger when played in my car. You can feel his blood, sweat, and tears in this album...the frustration of getting his voice out there when in 1D, yeah he was there, but was heavily muted (e.g. backup vocals). Here he shows his strengths in this album, but in return (that is outside from the album) we also saw his vulnerability. It's a shame that his anxiety crippled him to perform in public, but when he does, I'm sure it music to the audiences' ears. My daughter introduced me to 1D and Zayn was my instant favorite because of the soulful voice he exuded when he sang for/with the group. In my opinion, he put a glue to that group (and that became apparent when he left and the group released Made in the AM). That said, my fave song in the album is Rear View, followed by Take it Off (TiO), and Like I would...just smooth in every way for me. His voice reaches into my soul, something that's been lacking in music lately. I hope for the best for Zayn, looking forward to hear what else he wants to release to the world.… Expand
  68. dasada
    May 13, 2017
    9
    "Zayn Malik has finally shown the world what he can do, and we ought to be glad that he did. This album is a surefire way to get in the mood, but also catchy enough for just chilling and "blazing on that new found haze" like Zayn does in the song "lUcOzAdE." "Mind of Mine" successfully showcases Malik's shining talent and recognizes the sweet and sensual aspect of R&B.
  69. TheHendersmack
    May 23, 2017
    9
    Every song on the album distinguishes itself in both lyrical content and production. From the theatrical, heartbroken, deeply relateable "It's You" to the to the hazy euphoria of "Drunk". Zayn, always the vocal highlight in One Direction, gets to show his range but also his preferred R&B tombre. One of my most frequent re-listens.
  70. musiclover94
    Nov 18, 2017
    9
    His vocals are insane. i wish the intro music was the full song. The whole album has kind of calm and chilled vibe about it. specially loved the Golden, fool for u, borderz and bright. will b looking forward for the next album.
  71. Dairehutton
    Mar 25, 2016
    8
    Despite there being a few duds along the way (my least favourites being BoRdErZ and tRuTh, where the album runs the risk of becoming slightly mediocre), but overall I really enjoyed the cohesiveness of the sound of the album and Zayn's impressive vocals.
  72. yrkbustorf
    Mar 27, 2016
    8
    One of the best debut albums of all time. Zayn did well leaving One direction. The sounds in this album are incredible and his voice... no words to describe this masterpiece. Proud of him and his music. ZQUAD.
  73. themovieguy123
    Mar 26, 2016
    8
    Great sound different to his one direction days it feels like this is the music he always wanted to make. Great to listen to when doing work as it keeps me motivated.
  74. bhuvnesh
    Mar 26, 2016
    8
    A great album to break your typical boy band image, but in the vast sea of R&B albums, the album stands almost nowhere. His sultry vocals, musical production, Collaboration with Kehlani are the highlights of the album. The album however can be easily forgotten.
  75. Edduardo20
    Mar 2, 2017
    8
    Only Lucozade is better than the entire discography of 1D
    Now we see why Zayn hated the music they did, it's nothing their style. And here we can see his true maturity not only musical but also personal, we see the former integranteser himself.
    The lyrics of the album are perfect for him, the only problem is the rhythm they carry between songs, at one point it becomes a little tedious to    Only Lucozade is better than the entire discography of 1D
    Now we see why Zayn hated the music they did, it's nothing their style. And here we can see his true maturity not only musical but also personal, we see the former integranteser himself.
    The lyrics of the album are perfect for him, the only problem is the rhythm they carry between songs, at one point it becomes a little tedious to hear if you only expect songs "moved" or "pop" since this work and Zayn are anything but Pop Adolescent plastic cofcofOneDirectioncofcof

    Best of all the album: FLOWER    … Expand
  76. LilyKotze
    Oct 24, 2017
    8
    I love Zayn's writing. He is a very talented writer, and a voice blessed by the gods: incredible range and a richness to it you will struggle to find elsewhere. The only reason I didn't give him a ten is because I'm hard of hearing, and his enunciation is not always clear, so I can't hear him too well in some instances. This is on me, however, not on this incredibly talented man.
  77. gabrielcipriano
    Dec 21, 2018
    8
    Boy Zayn's first album, compared to old 1D songs, is amazing. Little flaws are found in this album, however in a compensation to the top of this and that it evolves more in the next solo album.
  78. Pksilex990
    Sep 21, 2019
    8
    That's how u begin your solo career .
    Zayn proved he can make quality songss
  79. KZorroFuego
    Mar 28, 2016
    7
    Zayn Malik has already stated he never truly felt “comfortable” with the music One Direction recorded, even going so far as to say he was forced to re-record vocals if a take sounded too “R&B.” Simple fact is, those words paint a picture of someone wanting to stretch out a bit. On “Mind Of Mine,” Zayn steps out of the shadow of One Direction for the most part, delivering a decidedlyZayn Malik has already stated he never truly felt “comfortable” with the music One Direction recorded, even going so far as to say he was forced to re-record vocals if a take sounded too “R&B.” Simple fact is, those words paint a picture of someone wanting to stretch out a bit. On “Mind Of Mine,” Zayn steps out of the shadow of One Direction for the most part, delivering a decidedly pop-infused R&B album.

    Sequenced as it is, the album gets the “I’m a man now” statement out of the way right out of the gate after a brief intro. “Pillowtalk” is classic steamy-lothario R&B filtered through Zayn’s vocal stylings and James Ryan Ho’s production style. As the style goes, it’s been done before, but it gives a refreshing burst of energy to set the tone for the rest of the album. Gone are the restrained vocal takes of the group he once called himself a part of, and in their place are impassioned, over the top vocals. Not quite into Adam Lambert-level glamazon over the top, but getting close to it. And immediately following that, the steamy-lothario mantle drops away and the crooning heart-throb comes out. “It’s You” is yet another baldly transparent bid by Zayn to show he can do something other than the buffed-to-an-inch-of-their-life pop vocals most know him for. Transparent, yes, but the hitch here is, he pulls it off, so obvious though it may be, it works, and provides a fine counterpoint to the steamy vibe of the first track.

    The best, and at times worst, thing about this album, is that Zayn is too busy trying to be a chameleon. Is he the steamed up mid-20-something sexpot of “Wrong”? Is he the trying-to-be-Sinatra-with-a-falsetto crooner of “Fool For You”? The mood jumps and shifts enough to make the album feel unfocused. Not to say these moments aren’t well executed for the most part, with a few expected stumbles which one would expect from a debut album (“Lucozade” is one of them, as the track never really picks up steam, just kind of shows up and fizzles out.) Also, one of the more solid moments, the propulsive earworm “Like I Would” is a deluxe-edition only track - a decision that is a bit of a head scratcher.

    Overall, Zayn has done an admirable job of stepping out of the shadows of his previous group. Reports have indicated he is already hard at work on a follow up. “Mind of Mine” shows promise - it is simply trying too hard to be too many different flavors of pop glossed R&B for every kind of listener. To some extent, it reflects the man behind the music - Zayn left One Direction [according to reports] to be able to live a “normal” life. The scattered moods found here suggest that he got tired of normal rather quickly. Looking ahead, even though this approach is a worthwhile effort to avoid being stagnant, (see the 1-note 1-subject slogs of boring cheesed up sexuality that are most of R. Kelly’s work over the last decade for an example of stagnant) going all over the map to avoid that curse can be a curse all its own. Sharpening the focus for album number 2 could reveal a truly exceptional slice of this particular flavor of music - time will tell if Zayn and all involved manage to pull it off or not.    … Expand
  80. Luke_T
    Mar 25, 2016
    7
    E com esse álbum que percebemos um dos motivos de Zayn ter saído da 1D. A sonoridade,composição ... completamente diferente do pop clichê do grupo. Zayn funciona definitivamente melhor em carreira solo. Vocais ótimas,com batidas que te fazem viajar.
    Detaque para "Pillowtalk" "Drunk" e "Fool for You"
  81. Coroinha
    Apr 6, 2016
    7
    ZAYN é a prova viva de que uma cabeça pode pensar melhor do que cinco. Após abandonar seu antigo grupo conhecido como One Direction, ZAYN se liberta do meio pop genérico e exaustivo que tanto o prendia, e, em seu primeiro álbum solo, “Mind of mine”, ele apresenta um trabalho formidável recheado de boas intenções. A princípio o disco se destaca em vários quesitos. As sonoridades de todasZAYN é a prova viva de que uma cabeça pode pensar melhor do que cinco. Após abandonar seu antigo grupo conhecido como One Direction, ZAYN se liberta do meio pop genérico e exaustivo que tanto o prendia, e, em seu primeiro álbum solo, “Mind of mine”, ele apresenta um trabalho formidável recheado de boas intenções. A princípio o disco se destaca em vários quesitos. As sonoridades de todas as 17 faixas são complexas, viciantes e entorpecentes a ponto de te fazer querer mais e mais. Os arranjos assim como as composições são extremamente bem trabalhados, e como se tudo isso não bastasse, a voz sedutora e flexível de ZAYN torna tudo muito mais claro e prazeroso. “PILLOWTALK” e “BeFoUr”, são nitidamente umas das canções mais atraentes do disco, mas é apenas em “Wrong” que ZAYN beira a perfeição juntamente com os vocais bem acoplados de Kehlani. Em alguns momentos, as canções apresentam um potencial não muito bem explorado, o que de maneira alguma as torna ruim, mas deixam de ganhar um pouco a mais de credibilidade. O único breve momento em que o sentido do CD é perdido, é na sétima faixa, “INTERMISSION:FLOWER”. Talvez para alguns fãs que anteriormente acompanhavam o trabalho do 1-D, “Mind of mine” pode ser considerado uma reviravolta chocante e promissora na carreira de um artista com muito talento e com um inevitável grande futuro pela frente. Certamente achamos nossa Beyoncé na versão masculina. (B)… Expand
  82. azul_escuro
    Apr 9, 2016
    7
    O álbum é gostoso de se ouvir,tem um bom fluido e propósito.Os singles são ótimos,mas as melhores músicas são She e Drunk.Elas merecem um videoclipe.
  83. amani12
    May 8, 2016
    7
    This is an exceptional album that not many would have seen coming from Zayn Malik. Any 1D fans that were expecting the commercial pop tracks they would typically receive from the band when Zayn was a member would be majorly disappointed by this album. Therefore, Zayn leaving 1D was a huge risk, but clearly a necessary move he had to make since he had his own talent to offer. This albumThis is an exceptional album that not many would have seen coming from Zayn Malik. Any 1D fans that were expecting the commercial pop tracks they would typically receive from the band when Zayn was a member would be majorly disappointed by this album. Therefore, Zayn leaving 1D was a huge risk, but clearly a necessary move he had to make since he had his own talent to offer. This album sits high in the current landscape of music along with many other RnB musicians.… Expand
  84. chidime
    Mar 25, 2016
    6
    Noble effort. You can hear in the music that he put in effort to make something different and spectacular, however, he missed the mark, by a good distance. At many points, the music just drags along without a clear destination. This doesn't just happen from track-to-track, but even in the middle of tracks. I do believe his next effort will be much better than this, since he will be farNoble effort. You can hear in the music that he put in effort to make something different and spectacular, however, he missed the mark, by a good distance. At many points, the music just drags along without a clear destination. This doesn't just happen from track-to-track, but even in the middle of tracks. I do believe his next effort will be much better than this, since he will be far wiser and more experienced. Can't wait.… Expand
  85. Samimacedo
    Mar 25, 2016
    6
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. It's a good album , but the pop ballads sounded a little forced and boring , It's you an exception , but it's a nice album to listen to, it is mature and staff deserve a note 69 on Metacritic .… Expand
  86. spongeswift
    Nov 12, 2017
    6
    Zayn's first offering is versatile and diverse while being kind of boring at the same time. His vocals were amazing, the writing was good but the overall production was only ok. Better than One Direction's work but still a little boring.
  87. diegonelli
    Mar 25, 2016
    6
    It's better than his works with One Direction. Anyways I still don't feel very attached to this album.. nothing personal. I just don't like it very much. There are some goods songs like Befour and Drunk. PS Am I the only one who really feels uncomfortable reading the songs titles TyPeD lIkE tHiS?
  88. SumitSumbria
    May 4, 2016
    6
    A nice attempt by Zayn. The album is boring but it has certain gems of its own. "iT's YoU", "sHe" and "PILLOWTALK" are my favouite. When I hear "fLoWer", there comes a feeling as if Zayn Malik is chanting it on a Shikara in Kashmir.
  89. Local
    Dec 7, 2016
    6
    Zayn will be successful as a solo artist. But this album feels like something is missing. The first half part of the album is good, with songs such as "Pillowtalk" and "Befour" sticking out of the rest. It has RnB vibe, but some of the songs are just a mess. His vocals shine (we can all agree he is talented) and the production is good, even though there is always the feeling of somethingZayn will be successful as a solo artist. But this album feels like something is missing. The first half part of the album is good, with songs such as "Pillowtalk" and "Befour" sticking out of the rest. It has RnB vibe, but some of the songs are just a mess. His vocals shine (we can all agree he is talented) and the production is good, even though there is always the feeling of something lacking.

    My personal favorites are "Pillowtalk" and "Like I Would", which I think are the only extremely good songs. The rest is just mediocre. A weak debut, that do not represent the potential Zayn has    … Expand
  90. ultimatemusic
    Jun 6, 2017
    6
    Where do I start? ZAYN has certainly hit the nail on the head with this one hasn’t he? Every track brings you something different compared to the others, and in terms of an album, that’s fantastic, that’s what you aim for, and that’s what he’s done. I was slightly disappointed, because I was expecting something a little bigger perhaps, but then, that would have been too obvious so I can’tWhere do I start? ZAYN has certainly hit the nail on the head with this one hasn’t he? Every track brings you something different compared to the others, and in terms of an album, that’s fantastic, that’s what you aim for, and that’s what he’s done. I was slightly disappointed, because I was expecting something a little bigger perhaps, but then, that would have been too obvious so I can’t fault him with this one can I?

    The real question is, do I think that leaving One Direction was a good idea? I believe so. Listening to this album, it’s clear that ZAYN definitely deserves his own platform. He offers something that a LOT of male artists, in fact, NO male artists don’t. There is something about ZAYN that is exceedingly artistic and it’s beautiful to watch. I think this album is definitely the beginning for him, and I have a gut feeling that the second album will be even bigger. In terms of debuts, this is a perfect start. Great songs balanced out with the not-so-great, but it’s still an amazing album. He is definitely the artist to watch because I don’t think anyone has offered anything in music in terms of difference since Gaga back in 2008. ZAYN’s tree of his career is only getting bigger and his artistic expression is only one stroke of paint on an empty canvas, but I do believe in 5-10 years will be looking at a huge star.    … Expand
  91. jrodfilms
    Mar 29, 2016
    5
    i think the single pillowtalk is really good. i will probably give the album another listen in the future.it has a darker sound than the stuff with one direction. it gives me similar vibes of the weeknds music.
  92. MarioVR
    Mar 25, 2016
    5
    It feels like he's forced his new kind of music, the sound is a powerful atmosphere, the album shows his influences: Chris Brown/Drake and The Weeknd, there is a few moments when you are enjoying the song and then drops in a disappointed way. Nice try.
    Good Vocals.
    Not bad production.
    Mediocrity composition.
    Poor Lyrics.
  93. kevinptztos
    Jun 6, 2016
    5
    [ENGLISH] I like some songs like "fOol fOr YoU", "dRuNk", "BeFoUr". Anyway, I think this album is better than One Direction's last album.

    [ESPAÑOL] Me gustan algunas canciones como "fOol fOr YoU", "dRuNk", "BeFoUr". De todos modos, creo que este álbum es mejor que el último de One Direction.
  94. ManuelContreras
    Apr 8, 2018
    5
    ni bueno ni malo, un album muuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuy olvidable
  95. longjetty7
    Mar 26, 2016
    4
    This is kind of a weird album, especially considering how big of a transition Zayn made from 1D to this. Mind of Mine is sort of a modern take on R&B. It's sexy, soulful, chill, somewhat mature, and Zayn's vocal delivery is genuinely impressive throughout the album. That being said, I really just was not digging this at all. The songs have a tendency to meander, and it sounds more likeThis is kind of a weird album, especially considering how big of a transition Zayn made from 1D to this. Mind of Mine is sort of a modern take on R&B. It's sexy, soulful, chill, somewhat mature, and Zayn's vocal delivery is genuinely impressive throughout the album. That being said, I really just was not digging this at all. The songs have a tendency to meander, and it sounds more like background music than something you would actively listen to. Also, with 18 songs on the deluxe edition, it is a bit of a chore to get through, especially since a lot of the songs are slow and sound very similar to each other. Overall, I wouldn't say this was a complete failure--his new musical direction sounds fresh enough, at least--but it's definitely not as interesting as it could have been.… Expand
  96. Justin143
    May 13, 2017
    4
    20 best songs u can find in a single album..voice of an angel...he is the top vocalist of this generation...befour is awesome and the long high note **** incredible.. transition between the songs is as smooth as his voice..my favourite is rear view and lucozade and borderz... excellent album..
  97. Grutzmacher
    Mar 25, 2016
    3
    I think a regular album, nothing unusual, some songs stand out but still have many problems in the album as the sounds of music and his voice. I hated the cover, I think it ridiculous for a first album
  98. amandasevero
    Feb 16, 2020
    2
    poucas músicas se salvam e o resto das músicas são bem insuportáveis de se ouvir
  99. flawschemistry
    Jan 16, 2021
    2
    I praised former 1D louis tomlinson on twitter and received a lot of comments recommending this album because I said I also liked R&B. Must say I am a little disappointed compared to how much he was exalted, the melodies are really not bad and the production of the album does not leave much to be desired but the lyrics are poor and childish
  100. RayGilinsky
    Mar 25, 2016
    1
    This is such a copy of Laura Welsh, Soft Control mixed with trap every song sounds almost the same it's really nothing special its the same sound he make with 1D the difference is that he just put trap beats
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Awards & Rankings

7
#7 Most Discussed Album of 2016
1
#1 Most Shared Album of 2016

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
69

Generally favorable reviews - based on 21 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 9 out of 21
  2. Mixed: 12 out of 21
  3. Negative: 0 out of 21
  1. AllMusic
    May 12, 2017
    70
    His vocal skills help pave over the (rare) moments when the lyrics seem a bit juvenile or the sound feels a little too familiar, and help make Mind of Mine an impressive debut. It's music he couldn't have made with One Direction and while it may not be breaking any new ground, it's new for him and he's talented enough to make that interesting for anyone who likes well-made pop music.
    Read full review
  2. PopMatters
    May 11, 2016
    80
    Mind of Mine leaps right over anything on Justified and carves a path of its own. Next decade’s boybands will doubtless provoke discussion on which of them will break out like this, which one will be a Zayn.
    Read full review
  3. The New York Times
    Apr 6, 2016
    60
    Throughout this album, Mr. Malik opts for a low-octane approach, with varying success.
    Read full review
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