PICTURE EXCLUSIVE: So much for the simple life! Zayn Malik visits recording studio with Naughty Boy... after quitting One Direction to be 'a normal 22-year-old'

 

He walked away from chart toppers One Direction because, in his own words, he wanted to be a regular 22-year-old. 

But on Saturday afternoon Zayn Malik confirmed persistent rumours that he has teamed up with hit producer Naughty Boy during an apparent break at a London recording studio.

The singer, whose first appearance at the studio came just 24-hours after his shock departure from the boy band, was joined by the producer on a studio stairwell, where they idled close to an open window. 

So much for the simple life! In a MailOnline picture exclusive, Zayn Malik is seen with hit producer Naughty Boy at a London recording studio on Saturday afternoon

Zayn sported the same denim jacket and skinny jeans he wore for the departure from the London home he shares with fiancée Perrie Edwards earlier that day. 

With his hair tied in a trendy top-knot, the singer chatted with Naughty Boy - real name Shahid Khan -for a few moments before making his way back inside. 

At one point the producer appeared to be talking earnestly with Zayn, one hand pressed to the pop star's chest as they stood face to face. 

Stay right there: Naughty Boy - real name Shahid Khan - waited for Zayn as the singer made his way down the stairwell

Zayn CRIES during last performance with One Direction

Close: The two friends' joint appearance seems to confirm persistent rumours that they are collaborating on new music 

The moment Zayn refused to dance at X Factor bootcamp

Just a regular guy: Zayn was seen idling on the stairwell after taking a break 

Much to discuss: The pair evidently had plenty to talk about during their first sighting since Zayn's shock announcement earlier this week 

Walk this way: Pop star Zayn looked glum, making an exit with his head bowed while Naughty Boy followed close behind 

After an emotionally exhausting week that saw  him jet back from South East Asia prior to making his announcement the singer looked completely exhausted. 

Keeping his head bowed and with his eyes partially closed, Zayn seemed in dire need of a good night's sleep during his first appearance with Naughty Boy.

The producer has previously helped transform the careers of hit-makers Ed Sheeran, Sam Smith and Emeli Sande. 

Here he comes: Zayn was instantly recognisable as he ventured down the stairwell while producer Naughty Boy waited in an open doorway