Louis Tomlinson Criticises One Direction's Signature Hit as 'Corny'
Former One Direction member Louis Tomlinson has openly admitted that the boyband's UK number one single "What Makes You Beautiful" felt "a little corny" and uncool to perform live. The 34-year-old pop star made these candid remarks during an interview on Scott Mills' BBC Radio 2 Breakfast Show, sparking discussion among fans and music critics alike.
Tomlinson's Dislike for Performing the Hit Song
When asked which One Direction song he least enjoyed performing, Tomlinson immediately responded with "What Makes You Beautiful, always, always, always, always." He elaborated on his reasons, stating that the track represented the band's "most pop and most like bubble gum pop moment." Tomlinson recalled feeling "eggy" or embarrassed while performing it as an 18-year-old, noting that being in a boyband wasn't considered cool at the time, despite their massive success.
The singer specifically pointed to lyrics like "baby, you light up my world like nobody else," remarking that they "wouldn't be out of place in a Disney film." This contributed to his perception of the song as overly sweet and lacking in edge. However, Tomlinson was quick to acknowledge the track's significance, admitting he "probably had my whole career to thank for it" and describing it as still "great," albeit "all a bit Grease" in its theatrical pop sensibility.
Praise for 'Story Of My Life' as a Creative Turning Point
In contrast, Tomlinson expressed strong admiration for One Direction's UK number two single "Story Of My Life," which he identified as his favourite song from the band's recorded catalogue. He emphasised that this track marked "a real moment" for the group, helping them break away from the stereotypical boyband mould prevalent at the time.
"I think that was a turning point for us," Tomlinson stated, highlighting that "Story Of My Life" wasn't a danceable pop tune but rather a more mature, introspective piece. He remembered feeling "really proud" that the song defied expectations and allowed One Direction to showcase artistic growth beyond their bubblegum pop roots.
Context of One Direction's Career and Tomlinson's Solo Work
One Direction formed in 2010 after being assembled by Simon Cowell on ITV's The X Factor. The band achieved global fame before going on hiatus in 2016, nearly a year after Zayn Malik's departure. This break allowed members including Tomlinson to pursue solo careers.
Tomlinson launched his solo journey with the 2020 album Walls, which reached number four on the UK albums chart. He has since released Faith In The Future (2022) and How Did I Get Here? in January of this year, with the latter two albums topping the UK charts. His solo hits include collaborations such as "Just Hold On" with Steve Aoki and "Back To You" with Bebe Rexha and Digital Farm Animals.
The interview also touched on the tragic loss of former bandmate Liam Payne, who died in October 2024 at age 31 after falling from a hotel balcony in Argentina. Tomlinson and other surviving One Direction members reunited at Payne's funeral in November 2024, alongside former manager Simon Cowell, highlighting the enduring bonds within the group despite their separate paths.
