From bands to solo fame: Stars who broke away

Some of the famous names in music industry found fame in groups before breaking away to look for their own separate paths.

Their departures were shocking for fans and followers, but for the artists, the decisions often came down to creativity, identity, or mental health.

Here’s a look some of the famous musicians and what they had to say about leaving their bands.

1. Camila Cabello

Fifth Harmony rose to fame on The X Factor USA in 2012, but by 2016 Cabello had stepped away.

She explained departure in New York Times interview, saying, “It became clear that it was not possible to do solo stuff and be in the group at the same time.”

While the group continued until 2018, Never Be the Same hit maker reflected warmly on their 10-year anniversary, thanking her bandmates and fans for “the laughs and inside jokes.”

2. Zayn Malik

One Direction was formed on The X Factor UK in 2010, became a global sensation, but in 2015, Zayn Malik quit this band.

Later he told The Fader that band’s style was “generic as f***” and admitted to Rolling Stone, “It’s not music I would listen to.”

The remaining four members released Made in the A.M. before going on hiatus, each successfully launching solo careers.

3. Geri Halliwell

Geri Halliwell helped the Spice Girls define the ‘90s. The Ginger Spice girl’s exit in 1998 shocked fans, with the star citing “differences” and mental health struggles.

During a 2019 reunion at Wembley, the amazing singer expressed her emotions saying, “I’m sorry I left. I was just being a brat.”

The group continues to reunite for tours and, most recently, a new documentary.

4. Jesy Nelson

Little Mix won The X Factor UK in 2011, but in 2020 Jesy Nelson left, admitting, “When I look back [at my time] in the band, I genuinely wasn’t me. I can’t believe how miserable I was.”

Though her solo debut faced backlash, Nelson stood by her intentions, while Perrie, Jade, and Leigh-Anne carried Little Mix forward.