Downfalls are constant, but not persistent: One Direction

As global pop sensation One Direction’s latest album breaks records, the band members say they’re sure their success won’t be short-lived.

Last year, a leading magazine featured the members of this band as the second-highest earning celebrities under the age of 30. Still in their early 20s, as per that list, these artistes had an estimated earning of a whopping $75 million between 2013 and 2014. Yet the members of the English-Irish boy band, One Direction — Niall Horan, Zayn Malik, Liam Payne, Harry Styles and Louis Tomlinson — don’t believe in slowing down. “We like to focus on our work and struggle to bring out the best in us,” says Liam, adding, “Downfalls are constant, but not persistent.”

The journey of this ensemble began in 2010, when they auditioned as solo candidates for a British TV singing competition. While they failed to qualify as independent singers, the judges suggested they give the show another try in the group category, all together. Since then, there has been no looking back. “We never imagined that the show will bring us here,” admits Zayn. Despite finishing third, the teenage artistes went on to become a phenomenon. Over the years, they have belted out four chart-topping albums. Post the launch of their latest one, Four (2014), One Direction became the first band in the history of the US Billboard to have their first four albums debut at number one. “This is the best thing that has ever happened to us,” adds Zayn.

Proud of their success, Harry echoes a similar stance: “With these many fans, I don’t see any downfall.” However, Liam says that while they are going “crazy” with the response to their music, he doesn’t deny getting overwhelmed at times.

With so much happening at the same time (four albums in four years, a book and a hit film on them, apart from several live shows), doesn’t it get a little too much to deal with? “Our passion towards music is a stress buster and our fans’ support has worked wonders for us,” says Niall, adding, “We know it’s not easy, but we want to prove ourselves every time.”

As rumours of Harry quitting the band (One Direction) have been doing the rounds for a while (there has been no confirmation yet), Zayn points out that sticking together has not been such a challenge for the band members, saying, “We love being together. It is not difficult at all.”

Putting things into perspective, Liam adds that they don’t believe in all work and no play, and hence, often play pranks on each other to keep the fun alive. At the same time, their passion for good music has been a source of bonding. “We have always been transparent about our work with each other. Our passion to deliver good music has made our bond stronger, which does not hamper our understanding or affect our deliverables,” he says.

Finally, the ‘What makes you beautiful’ hit-makers, who have a busy two months ahead with several tours, confirm that they are also looking forward to perform in India. “To visit and perform in India will surely be part of our forthcoming trips,” says Liam.

File-Photo-One-Direction-star-Harry-Styles-AFP