
Call Her Daddy
"I feel like we just got thrown into the deep end and we kind of just have to swim." — Zane Lowe
"My most valuable thing that I have in life is time and that takes so much time in in a toxic environment to like explain yourself to people and justify this and so I just kind of keep to myself." — Zane Lowe
"She's brought that color back for me for sure. Yeah." — Zane Lowe
The podcast features an intimate conversation between Alex Cooper and Zane Lowe, recorded in Cooper's childhood home, offering a rare glimpse into Lowe's personal life beyond his public persona. Lowe elaborates on his decision to move to Pennsylvania, seeking a calmer environment away from the overwhelming nature of city life and the constant presence of paparazzi. He contrasts this with his upbringing in Bradford, UK, describing it as an impoverished community that, while challenging, ultimately shaped his identity and resilience. Lowe also shares personal anecdotes about his diverse hobbies, including painting, drawing, and cooking, highlighting his passion for smoked meats. He speaks candidly about his extensive animal collection and the emotional attachment that led him to stop naming them after a difficult experience with his chickens.
A significant portion of the discussion revolves around Lowe's journey from his early musical aspirations, which began in school choir and led to an audition for The X Factor, to his rise to global fame with One Direction. He reflects on the disorienting nature of sudden stardom at a young age and the immense pressure it entailed. Lowe explains his decision to leave the band, emphasizing it as a strategic move for his own artistic and business goals, as well as a natural progression given the prolonged time spent together with bandmates. He shares the emotional impact of becoming a father, which has been a significant catalyst for his personal growth, recalibrating his priorities and fostering a desire to be a positive example.
Lowe also delves into his ongoing navigation of anxiety, particularly in relation to public life and performance. He discusses how fatherhood has provided him with a new perspective, empowering him to face challenges and be more present. His solo music career is presented as a journey towards greater authenticity and depth, allowing him to explore real-life experiences and express his personal narrative more freely than he could in a group setting. The conversation concludes with Lowe expressing a desire for his fans to get to know him better and his commitment to a more present and open approach in his future endeavors, including new music inspired by his daughter.