Louis Tomlinson becomes only member of One Direction to sign with Simon Cowell

Louis Tomlinson has announced that he has signed a solo deal with Simon Cowell’s record label Syco, making him the only member of One Direction to maintain his relationship with the music mogul since the band went on hiatus at the end of 2016.

As well as sticking with 1D’s original record label, Louis has also signed up to Sony’s RCA label in America as he prepares to release his debut solo album.

Speaking about his new venture, the 25-year-old star said: “I’m very happy to have signed. I’m excited to be continuing my relationship with Syco, and also working with the brilliant team at RCA in the US.

“I’ve been working really hard in the studio and can’t wait to show you what I’ve been writing. As always, I’d like to thank the fans for their unbelievable support.”

Speaking to The Sun, a source added: “It’s no secret Simon was upset when the other guys went to different labels but he has always been closest to Louis.

“They have worked together very closely in the past 18 months on various projects, so staying loyal was a no-brainer for him.”

The move comes six months after Louis released his debut solo single, ‘Just Hold On’, which was released earlier than planned as he’d hoped that his late mother, Johannah Deakin, would be able to watch his debut solo performance during the X Factor final before she passed away.

Tragically, Johannah lost her short battle with leukaemia just three days before Louis’ scheduled performance, which he bravely went ahead with as his One Direction bandmates supported him backstage.

Simon previously lashed out at Louis’ bandmate, Niall Horan, for signing a solo deal elsewhere, sniping: “He probably would have had a number one single if he’d stayed with me.”

The dig was in reference to Niall’s debut solo single, ‘This Town’, only peaking at number 9 in the UK charts.

Simon also blasted Liam Payne for being “disloyal”.

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