Zayn Malik has seemingly taken a subtle jab at his former One Direction bandmate Harry Styles over the controversial ticket prices for Styles' upcoming world tour. The incident occurred during Malik's recent Las Vegas residency performance at Dolby Live, where the singer made a remark that has been widely interpreted as a pointed comment on the premium costs associated with Styles' Together, Together tour.
Vegas Performance Sparks Speculation
During his Wednesday night show, Malik addressed the enthusiastic crowd with what appeared to be a loaded statement about concert affordability. "I just want to say a big, big thank you to every single one of you for being here tonight," he told attendees, as captured in video footage circulating across social media platforms. "Could've been anywhere but you decided to spend your night with me."
The singer then added with a smile: "Hopefully the ticket prices weren't too high. Just saying." This comment prompted immediate applause from the audience and quickly ignited speculation among fans about whether Malik was directly referencing the pricing structure of Styles' forthcoming tour.
One Direction History Adds Context
The relationship between the two artists dates back to their time together in the globally successful boy band One Direction, which disbanded in 2016. Both have since pursued successful solo careers, with Styles achieving particular commercial success with his Love on Tour concert series and multiple chart-topping albums.
Styles recently announced his new album "Kiss All the Time. Disco, Occasionally" alongside plans for an extensive global tour. The Together, Together tour will visit seven cities worldwide for multi-day residencies, comprising a total of 50 shows beginning in May with six performances in Amsterdam followed by six concerts in London featuring special guest Shania Twain.
Ticket Price Controversy Escalates
The presale ticket prices for Styles' tour have already generated significant controversy among fans, despite general sales not commencing until Friday. At London's Wembley Stadium, standard seated tickets range from approximately $60 to $643, while in New York City the most expensive VIP package currently stands at $1,667.
This pricing strategy has drawn criticism from disappointed supporters, with one fan commenting on social media: "Harry's ticket prices are so disappointing. They're only asking those insane prices because they know people will pay no matter what, not because they actually need the money. Harry could've gone against the increase, but didn't. This is also on him."
Comparative Pricing Structures
In contrast, tickets for Malik's final two Las Vegas residency shows range from $83.07 for balcony seats to $479.81 for ultra premium seats according to Ticketmaster data. This represents a significantly lower price point than the premium packages offered for Styles' upcoming tour.
Styles' tour schedule includes extensive residencies across multiple continents, with 30 shows planned at Madison Square Garden in New York City between August and October, followed by performances in São Paulo, Mexico City, and concluding with shows in Melbourne and Sydney during November and December.
The Independent has reached out to representatives for Zayn Malik seeking comment on the interpretation of his Las Vegas remarks, though no official statement has been released at this time. The incident highlights ongoing discussions within the music industry about concert affordability and artist responsibility regarding ticket pricing strategies.
