It Ends Here: Did Zayn Really “Win” His Solo Battle With Harry Styles?

Pick a side. There can be only one.

In his review of Harry Styles’ self-titled solo album, our in-house critic made a decisive declaration: “Zayn wins.” But wins what?

If a boy band is lucky, its members will fade away into lucrative obscurity (popping back up on occasion for Dancing with the Stars). Potentially, one of its singers (but no more) will make a musical career of their own. It's unlikely One Direction will be any different.

Even when Zayn Malik became the first to exit the band, most assumed Harry would eventually make his solo debut and become the bigger name.

Two years later, Zayn has two platinum singles, a gold album and industry cred. Most importantly, he has all the good songs (and better music videos).

To defend the shaggier-haired One Directioner, Harry hasn’t released quite as many singles as ex-bandmate Zayn (who capitalised on his head start by collaborating with Taylor Swift, M.I.A and Snakehips).

And, certainly, they’re playing in two different genres; Harry’s following in the footsteps of David Bowie, Mick Jagger, Freddie Mercury and, erm, ABBA, while Zayn is all about slinky R&B slow-jams.