ZAYN, Sideways | Song Review

Nobody is looking at pop singer-songwriter ZAYN sideways, given the excellence of “Sideways,” a second incredible single from his fifth album, KONNOKOL.

Uh-oh, ZAYN (Zayn Malik). That’s not ideal! “You never get enough of what you want.” D-d-damn! Is the English pop singer-songwriter giving her a side eye on “Sideways”? NO, believe it or not.  The sideways hits differently on the second single and fourth track from his fifth studio album, KONNAKOL (arriving April 17, 2026).  ZAYN composed “Sideways” with Jesse Shatkin, Stefan Johnson, Jordan K. Johnson, Oliver Peterhof, and Mozella. The Monsters & Strangerz and German produced it.

“Sideways” commences with distinct piano lines that set the tone. Later, other ear-catching instrumental moments include synthesized plucked sounds and an electrifying groove.  Upon entering, ZAYN sounds incredible.  His tone is beautiful, and he sings in an expressive and nuanced fashion. We would expect no less, of course. He brings the lovely melodies to life. The loveliest of those melodies arrives during the chorus, which is sideways in a different sort of way!

“I miss lookin’ at you sideways

Face-to-face with your lips on mine

And our legs on the pillowcase

Sideways, late at night with your love lying next to mine

I miss lookin’ at you sideways, sideways, sideways (Sideways).”

Oh, snap! Of course, the verses yield their own special moments. In the first verse, “You’re here, but you’re not tonight.” Hmm. In the second verse, she twists him up, “Then dangle your words like diamonds / They cut me, but I see through.” Dramatic, poetic, and unforgettable! All told, ZAYN drops another winning song with “Sideways”.  Great vocals, memorable theme and lyrics, and a colorful, sleek production make this song the cat’s meow.

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ZAYN » KONNAKOL » Drop Zed Music, LLC / Mercury Records » 4.17.26 [📷: Drop Zed Music, LLC / Mercury Records]

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