Zayn Malik learned about himself through solo work: Gigi

Supermodel Gigi Hadid thinks her boyfriend Zayn Malik was able to learn about himself much more this year through the release of his solo music.

The former One Direction star's girlfriend believes his solo album has helped him discover who he is, reported People magazine.

"I think that he really deserves recognition for the music that he made this year. It's been amazing to kind of see him learn about himself and the music that makes him really happy to sing," Gigi said.

And the 21-year-old model previously revealed she is a big fan of Malik's solo offerings.

"I grew up in a household where my stepdad was a classical musical producer - Andrea Bocelli, Josh Groban - that was the music I was into. I think we can all name a One Direction song that we like. Or maybe not.