Louis Tomlinson Opens Up About New Single “Palaces,” Creative Risks, and Moving Forward in Apple Music Interview
Louis Tomlinson joined Zane Lowe on Apple Music 1 to celebrate the release of his new single “Palaces.” During the conversation, the singer opened up about the track’s direction, the bold creative choices behind his upcoming album How Did I Get Here?, and the personal growth he’s experienced in recent years.
On His New Track “Palaces”
Tomlinson shared that “Palaces” bridges the sound of his previous album, Faith in the Future, with the direction of his new project.
“It’s kind of the glue between the two records,” he explained. “This is the type of music I love listening to, love singing, love performing. It all came together pretty quickly… I think you can feel that.”
Taking Risks on His New Album
The singer said the new album pushed him into unfamiliar territory—and boosted his confidence.
“You need confidence to take risks, and I built a lot of that from touring,” he said. “I left One Direction wanting to show who I am as an artist, but sometimes the motivation behind that wasn’t right. This time, I was ready to embrace the things that used to scare me.”
Tomlinson added that leaning into pop sensibilities—something he once avoided—became a liberating creative choice:
“The bravest thing I could do was embrace all of those pop elements. There’s a different intention with this record.”
On Going Solo
Reflecting on his journey post–One Direction, Tomlinson said touring helped him silence the doubts he once struggled with.
“You’re staring every night at a contrary idea to the voice in your head saying, ‘Maybe you can’t do this on your own,’” he said. “The more I do it, the more confident I get.”
Although he still feels pressure and pre-show nerves, he emphasized that the new album represents his most assured approach yet.
Dealing With the Past Few Years
Tomlinson also addressed the personal challenges he has faced.
“I’m pretty resilient,” he said. “That doesn’t underestimate the tough things I’ve dealt with. But I’m at a point now where I’m ready to enjoy life.”
That renewed mindset shaped the album’s tone:
“It’s about getting out the other side of something dark and celebrating that.”