#Louis has been working with John for such a long time from the 1D tour to his solo tour

[sunshineandlyrics]

John Delf posted a pic from his time with One Direction on their Take Me Home Tour in 2013 (posted 29 October 2022) x

[1ddotdhq]

◟̽◞̽ Tues 24 Nov ‘20 🐠

Grammy Nominations and Live Shows OH MY!!

LOUIS’ BACK!!! And I don’t mean “oh he liked something on Instagram” or “oh he tweeted about a RHCP concert”, I mean he’s going to be doing a VEEPS LIVESHOW! And so we solve the mystery of the Spotify vids (they were a stage!): a few hours before the announcement, he tweeted, “Hope you’re all doing alright. Exciting stuff coming up!!”, and then left the masses to wonder what could possibly be happening and when. Three anxious hours later: “So excited to announce that I’m getting my band and crew back together to put on a special show for you all that will be streamed December 12 [!!!adkhfkadhfjj!!!] and will be available for 28 hours after. The show will support 5 important causes very close to my heart”. The causes Louis Tomlinson Live From London will support are FareShare (they redistribute food to communities in need), CrewNation (the LiveNation COVID crew fund), StageHand (similar to CrewNation, but UK based), Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, and paying Louis' own touring crew! The tickets go on sale TOMORROW. If you can't afford one, Luke Massie (founder and CEO of Vibe Tickets) is giving funds away on twitter to fans who want to watch the show! “I’ll do my best to help as many of you as I can see him and his amazing crew perform,” he said. Louis has said that there is no cap on the ticket sales, so I’m taking him at his word and hoping that Veeps is prepared for what's about to happen (they're REALLY not lol.)

And that’s not all!! The press release for the show promised “songs from… ‘Walls”...alongside a few surprises” (I - could it - new music????), as well as “an exclusive range of new merchandise” that comes out tomorrow! The merch proceeds will go to the charities listed above. And! The Telegraph published an interview! Louis promises AN UPCOMING NEW ALBUM (“I had basically penciled down a plan before corona took over our lives”). He says again that he wants to move into the KMM style rock sound, “I think there were some songs where I took slightly more risk and owned what I love, saying, this is who I want to be..there is a certain energy in [KMM], in its delivery, in its attitude, that I want to recreate. People are struggling at the moment so I want to create a raucous, exciting atmosphere in my live show, not a somber, thoughtful one.” He says that he wants this next album to be more optimistic, because that is who he is, but new songwriting is HARD during a pandemic: for him (like for all of us), his days have fallen into a routine, and so he has no ‘new experiences’ to draw from. And, once again, Louis brings up John Frusciante and how he “fucking wishes” he could chat with him. Louis - drop your RHCP stan account PLEASE! We also learned that fans were RIGHT in speculating that he’s been in LA recently (though likely not for the reason the Telegraph wants us to think). About his travels, Louis says, “[The spot he goes to] is remote and kind of weird, and I’m going to go there for three days and write. I don’t know why I’m so drawn to it... it’s got some very interesting (peculiar?) locals who live there...it feels like you’re going back in time when you’re there.” ANY COMMENT, @/visiteroda??? And, in a rare look ahead, Louis reveals that he wants to manage an all-women’s rock band playing instruments (hey, friend, you know where women could play instruments? YOUR OWN BAND, MY DUDE! Just a suggestion). He said that his process with Syco had become “challenging and frustrating” because the kinds of artists he wants to develop aren’t “ready-made” - he sees a lot of artists that were “rough and ready” but labels want to see “something that works straight away”. But with Syco dust in the wind he can get back to it: HELL YEAH! The band he’s currently got his eyes on is Fickle Friends (an indie Brighton all-female rock band); he says this is the kind of band he wants to manage, “because there’s no one in that space. And I know eventually if I don’t do it, someone else will!”. Guys, I say this a lot, but really, Louis is about to make some WAVES in that space and I can’t WAIT to see it play. But first the concert, please!

AND!!!!!! Harry has been NOMINATED FOR THREE FUCKING GRAMMYS!! GUYS, HE MADE IT! The categories he is up for are: Best Music Video (Adore You - the TASTE), Best Pop Solo Performance (Watermelon Sugar), and BEST POP VOCAL ALBUM! I know that we’re always like, Grammys mean nothing, and how can we feel otherwise 1D was never nominated, but this is a MILESTONE in his career, and I am so happy to see his work getting the recognition it deserves! There were no nominations for him in the general field this year (artist or record of the year) BUT just you WAIT. Everything that Harry does makes me think that he is gearing up for a very long and successful career and I am. Very Happy for him. And so is everyone else! Harry’s friends, family, colleagues, and labels have all been quick to congratulate him on his well deserved recognition. In other Harry news, we got some stills from an Austrailian movie called “Holding the Man” which bear remarkable similarities to the Golden music video. (Were Harry's Vans really in there as a tribute to the film or did that part just work out very well for him??) The movie and the song don’t have anything in common thematically except being gay, but it really looks like a visual homage to this film (or, my personal theory, a fix-it fic to give it a happy ending!). And! Harry was papped on the DWD set with Florence Pugh again today, in a suit and an opulent background - it’s hard to make out Harry’s face, but I think we can guess that it's beaming in pride, as it should be.

GQ Spain did a piece on Liam’s Hugo capsule, praising it for being “the utilitarian style” (“the star trend of 2020”). They’re very nice about it, and seem to be genuinely interested and like the color scheme of the clothes: “the monocolor look...is an irrefutable argument in men’s clothing”. They also praise the collection for being an example that “you don’t need to spend hours in front of a mirror to dress like the best dressed men on the planet”. All of these were meant to be compliments, I SWEAR! Niall was around on Twitter yesterday, reminiscing about the time when some fans asked Justin Beiber to take pictures of them with Niall, it's true Niall that IS hilarious and also good psychic timing: that's EXACTLY how relevant Justin Beiber should be (yes I AM bitter the Weeknd was ROBBED). He also congratulated Shawn Mendes for his documentary, “So proud of this boy. He’s smashed it and always so humble. Well done to everyone involved.X”. I have not seen this documentary but if there are any more “Camila Cabello orders bananas at sushi restaurants moments” PLEASE let me know!

[popmusicu]

Most important Boybands in history for me

Boy bands have been an important part of pop culture for several decades, each generation has had its Boyband, these vocal groups formed by teenage boys, who sing and dance (there are exceptions), wear matching clothes and drive the girls crazy.

That's why I present some of the most important Boybands in history (some of my favorites and others that even though I'm not a fan I know several songs):

The jackson 5: Considered by many the first Boyband in history, this band formed by the African-American brothers from Gary,Indiana: Jackie, Tito, Jermaine, Marlon and Michael (from oldest to youngest) started in the mid 60s, driven by their father Joseph Jackson, playing in small bars and events in their town, until they were discovered by Motown Records where they began a successful career with Berry Gordy (owner of Motown) and Diana Ross, reaching the top of the U.S. charts with singles like "I Want You Back", "ABC", "The Love You Save" and "I'll Be There", without a doubt they were one of the most influential groups of the time, years later when they went to Epic Records they changed their name to "The Jacksons".

Well, last but not least, in the late 70's Michael Jackson started his solo career, which would lead him to become the most important artist in history and be known as the King of Pop.

Without a doubt, the Jackson Five are one of my favorites and I think most people know at least one of their songs.

J5 medley: https://youtu.be/-4QWtflqqoU

New Kids on the block: This group formed in 1984 by the brothers Jonathan Knight and Jordan Knight, Joey McIntyre, Donnie Wahlberg and Danny Wood from Boston, were a symbol for the boy bands that later in the 90s would succeed them.

They released their first album in 1986, but they jumped to the fame in 1988 with their album "Hangin' Tough" and even more with the release of "Step by step" in 1990 with which they became number 1 in the United States, but it didn't pass much time until in 1994 with the exit of Jonathan Knight, the group ended up separating.

After years in 2008 they announced that the group reunited, which made new tours and later between 2010 and 2012 with the Backstreet Boy made the NKOTBSB tour where they shared the stage singing the hits of both Boy bands, today they continue making music.

The NKOTBSB tour with 2 or more generations!

The Right Stuff: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tbIEwIwYz-c

Backstreet boys: It is the most successful Boyband of all time (we must admit that everyone knows at least a couple of their songs), composed of AJ McLean, Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell, Nick Carter and Kevin Richardson, since 1993 when it was formed and after releasing its first album of the same name in 1996, has been a symbol of pop and one of the groups with more record sales in the history of music.

Regarding their music, they obtained their first success in Europe with "We've Got It Goin' On", and from there their popularity began to grow , until with "Quit Playing Games (With My Heart)" they managed to conquer the United States. By the end of the decade of the 90s they release what was their most successful album "Millenium" which debuted in the position n° 1 of Billboard 200 that includes their most successful song "I want it that way" (we all know it's song), then they continue with their album "Black and Blue", which they promoted by traveling the 5 continents in 100 hours, with which they obtained a Guinness record.

After several agitated years, the band decides to take a rest in 2002, although after 3 years they return with a new sound and new tour, but in 2006 Kevin decides to leave the band, reason why Nick, AJ, Brian and Howie decide to continue them 4 with BSB, after several years and new albums, the project NKOTBSB arises where they unite to the New Kids ON The Block to make a tour, in which they announce the return of Kevin to the quintet. Currently, they are still very active after releasing their album "DNA" , whose world tour was interrupted by the covid-19.

My favorite boyband by far, their way of being, their messages in their songs, their iconic choreographies and the power to deal with difficult situations that have been presented to them make me admire them and love each of their songs.

All I have to give: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pj6FCKm8dhM

N´ Sync: Considered in the 90s the rivals of the Backstreet Boys, this band composed by Chris Kirkpatrick, Joey Fatone, Lance Bass, JC Chasez and Justin Timberlake who until today continues with his successful solo career; it was created in 1995 by Lou Pearlman, had great success at the end of the 90s until his separation in 2002.

In addition to their great successes with songs like "Bye bye bye", "I want you back" or "Pop", they had the opportunity to work with important music celebrities like MJ, Aerosmith, Celine Dion, Elthon John among others, there is even a chapter of The Simpsons dedicated to them. One of the strongest features of N' Sync was the dance and its complex choreography.

For me, Justin was always the most outstanding of the group, that's why he continues to be an important artist to this day.

Bye bye bye: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Eo-KmOd3i7s

One Direction: British Boyband was born in 2010 after Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Zayn Malik, Niall Horan and Louis Tomlinson, participated in Factor X, where Simon Cowell joined them and created one of the most successful bands of the decade of 2010, debuted with "What Makes You Beautiful" and since then were a phenomenon, filled stadiums, world tours, etc.  In 2013 they released "Midnight Memories", which was the best selling album of that year, which contained songs like "Best Song Ever", "Story of My Life" which are some of the most heard songs of the band.

until 2015 when Zayn announced that he was leaving the band, so 1D was left with only 4 members, who in 2016 each began their solo projects, leaving the group on pause until today.

What this band was missing to call my attention, I think was that they didn't dance!

Best Song Ever: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_v9MY_FMcw

BTS: Although this band was formed in 2010 in South Korea and their debut was in 2013 is not until 2017 with the rise of K-pop that have become the most important group of this genre worldwide, formed by Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V and Jungkook have remained within the Billboard 200 for a long time with different songs like "DNA" or his EP "Love Yourself: Her", in addition to receiving several awards.

Even Time magazine recognized them as "Next Generation Leaders ", and they were included in the list of the most influential people in the world in 2019.

While this genre of pop is not my favorite, one of my favorite songs is Dynamite at first I was struck by its rhythm, but when I saw the video and all the references to MJ I loved a more.

Dynamite: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gdZLi9oWNZg

Michelle Silva H.

[allwaswell16]

This is the masterpost for my fan fictions. You can also find and subscribe to my fics here on ao3. My word count so far is: 388,316. All pairings are Harry Styles/Louis Tomlinson unless otherwise specified. Thanks for reading! <3 <3

Faded From This Touch | explicit | 7k | read here on ao3

Pop star Louis Tomlinson is about to make his long awaited return to music. Unfortunately, his label and manager feel his long hair isn't in tune with his pop star image. When Louis goes to get a hair cut at a posh London salon, he unexpectedly finds a very handsome reason to keep returning.

Today’s the Day (Winter Drabble Series) | G | 300 words | read here on ao3

Polar-Harry pines for the beautiful boy he sees in the coffee shop. Radiator-Harry meets the beautiful boy in the coffee shop he has been pining over. Melt-Harry talks to the boy in the coffee shop he has been pining over.

Be My Homeward Dove | explicit | drarry | 7k | read here on ao3

It's almost Christmas, and Draco must find Harry the perfect gift. It's much more difficult than he'd imagined.

We’re Dancing On Tables | explicit | 5k | read here on ao3

Last week, Louis went on the very best date of his life with the hot guy from his chemistry lab, which was great until the guy never texted him or called him afterwards. Everything is great. Everything is fucking great. Now this guy has the nerve to show up at Louis’ house party, which of course forces Louis to plot to ruin his night.

Staring Across the Room | explicit | 26k |  read here on ao3

Harry Styles has a great life. He’s a children’s librarian at the New York Public Library, he’s got wonderful friends, and he loves cooking, green tea, yoga, and his collection of bow ties. He doesn’t mind that his life seems a little structured, maybe even a little boring. But when Louis Tomlinson joins the library staff as the new Installation Coordinator, things become a lot less predictable. Louis gets under his skin right from the start, bossing Harry around, making noise during story time, and eating the last cupcake in the staff lounge. Louis may be almost offensively attractive, but Harry will not be succumbing to Louis Tomlinson’s charms, even if the rest of the library staff have.

Do You Smile To Tempt a Lover | explicit | 18k | read here on ao3

Pairing: Nick Grimshaw/Louis Tomlinson

Nick Grimshaw is entranced by Louis, his very beautiful, very cheeky new coworker at The National Portrait Gallery. He watches him day after day, wondering what he’s furiously typing on his laptop over lunch. With a little help from the very bored barista in the gallery cafe, Nick finds himself growing closer to Louis than he ever dreamed possible.

Let You Lick the Lollipop | explicit | 4.4k | read here on ao3

Louis may be throwing a Halloween costume party for a lot of drunk college students, but that doesn’t mean he can’t also hand out candy to trick-or-treaters. He just has to keep people from stealing all the candy--especially the very hot guy in a toga who won’t leave his candy alone.

This is Halloween, everybody make a scene | general | 2k | read here on ao3

When Louis takes his son trick-or-treating in a stormtrooper costume, little does he know by the end of the night he will end up gaining a Luke Skywalker, a Chewbacca, and a Rey. He doesn't mind the additions, and if Rey's very hot dad wants to come along as well, he doesn't mind that too much either.

Just Hear This (series) | explicit | 46k | read here on ao3

Former boy band member Louis Tomlinson can’t stand pompous indie artist Harry Styles, but with a new record label to launch he is going to have to endure his pretensions to snag up and coming new artist Liam Payne, who happens to be Harry’s oldest friend. Luckily, Liam seems to be very interested in 78 Records and maybe a little more than interested in Louis’ best friend. Too bad Harry won’t be making this easy on any of them. Or a modern day Pride and Prejudice.

You’re the Light (series) | explicit | 39k | read here on ao3

Before beginning a new graduate school in the fall, Louis Tomlinson decides to spend the summer working in Chicago as an editor’s assistant for the Chicago Tribune newspaper and staying with his old college roommate. What he finds on his first day of work is a tall, gorgeous editor named Harry who has the most beautiful green eyes he’s ever seen—and who also happens to be his new boss.

Looking Through You (series) | explicit | 49k | read here on ao3

Just as Louis and Liam were starting out in the music industry, writing and producing for up and coming artists, a fateful meeting with new pop singer Harry Styles changes everything. Four years later, just as Harry is set to embark on his next world tour, a drunken confession causes a rift between once inseparable friends. As Harry tries to make sense of his feelings for Louis, he begins writing his next album to express them as it may be the only way to break through the walls that Louis has built between them. 

That’s How I Know | explicit | 17k | read here on ao3

Louis Tomlinson has just landed his dream job, coaching soccer at Augustus University. When he moves into a new house near campus, he meets his very fit new neighbor, English professor Harry Styles. Although their first meeting leads to an instant mutual dislike, the more Harry gets to know Louis, the more he likes what he sees. Or the one where Harry’s African grey parrot spills his dirty secrets to his very hot neighbor.

I’ll Be There | explicit | 5k | read here on ao3

Louis is less than thrilled to find out his roommate has coerced his nemesis to check on him whilst he’s sick in bed. However, Harry seems to take great pleasure in taking care of Louis. Maybe this green smoothie drinking, hot yoga instructing, hair in a bun wearing, pretentious art history studying wanker isn’t so bad after all. On Monday, Louis thinks Harry’s a twat. By Friday, he’s thinking of reasons for him to stay.

One Day You’ll Say These Words | mature | 10k | read here on ao3

Growing up together in Yorkshire has led to a lifelong friendship between Louis Tomlinson, the future Marquess of Rotherham, and Harry Styles, the heir to a viscount. When Harry suddenly inherits his uncle’s title and estate much earlier than expected, Louis must watch his friend struggle under the weight of these new responsibilities, including searching for a wife with a dowry large enough to save his estate. However, sitting idly by as Harry looks for a bride brings some unexpected feelings to the surface. A friends to lovers story set in the Regency era.

Sound Like a Song | explicit | 14k | read here on ao3

Part 1 of When We Were Young Series: In high school, Louis Tomlinson lit up Harry’s world like nobody else, even if Harry did most of his pining from the safety of his tightly knit circle of friends. Ten years later, Harry is ready to make some changes. He’s tired of having so many regrets and not taking charge of his life, and he still hasn’t forgotten how brightly Louis shines. He’s about to get a long awaited second chance.Or the one where Harry helps out at a farmer’s market and gives Louis free vegetables. Featuring Elton John songs, many vegetable puns, way too many zucchinis, and being right on time for the love of your life.

Look Like a Movie | mature | 10k | read here on ao3

Part 2 of When We Were Young Series. Louis lights up Harry’s world like nobody else. Harry just wishes he could be brave enough to ever ask him out. Although Harry’s high school life is fraught with anxious encounters, he gets by with a little help from his friends.Or a prequel taking place ten years before ‘Sound Like a Song.’ Featuring school dances, soccer games, overeager lab partners, crushes, and being ten years too early for the love of your life.

How Could I Ever Forget | explicit | 14k | read here on ao3

After his boyfriend leaves him for a job in New York, Harry vows to move on with his life. A year later when their best friends announce their engagement, Harry knows he’ll be forced to see Louis again and face the truth he’s been trying his best to hide–even from himself. Or a Vegas AU where Ziam’s bachelor party turns into drunken karaoke, winning thousands at slots, washing your clothes at the laundromat in your underwear, and making life altering decisions that you can’t remember in the morning.

You Really Got Me Now | explicit | 6k | read here on ao3

Louis is the best older brother anyone could ask for. He knows this because he’s agreed to help chaperone his younger sister’s school trip to Rome. As it turns out, Italy is full of surprises. Fizzy’s Italian teacher is surprisingly hot, Rome is surprisingly interesting, and Louis is surprisingly falling in love with more than just the city.

You & Me | general | 3k | read here on ao3

Louis Tomlinson doesn’t have much faith in fate. Unfortunately, his mother does. She thinks he’s destined to be with her best friend’s son. Louis hasn’t had much luck in love, so he decides to finally meet this boy his mother thinks is his match. As fate would have it, he encounters an intriguing stranger to confide in before he meets with destiny.

1D Very Silly Chat/Email Chain (series) | (im)mature| 7k+ | read here on ao3

(1) Danger in the Produce Aisle, (2) Caramel Apple Peeps, (3)The OT4 Email Chain, (4) Email Chain OT4, (5) Screaming, (6)The Brits & Always You, (7) Is Neil Available?

Read emails sent from : donnysoldier28@gmail.com, TheRealBatMan@aol.com, CraicDirection@hotmail.com, and randysdonuts@savethewhales.org

Important topics including: frightening fruits, no milk for Louis’ tea, hacking, being jealous of Steve Aoki, way too many poo jokes, Niall screaming, dogs Liam doesn’t Instagram, Harry’s floofy hair, Liam’s chains, Instagram aesthetics, and much more!

Now That I’ve Found You | mature | 6k+ | read here on ao3

Harry Styles has a great job working for his brother-in-law’s construction company. He has just one small problem. His concrete sub-contractor just quit, and he needs a foundation built as soon as possible. One fateful turn brings him exactly what he’s been looking for—an experienced concrete construction company that happens to be owned by the most beautiful man he’s ever laid eyes upon.

For You I’d Bleed Myself Dry | explicit | 3k+  | read here on ao3

After a public and humiliating breakup, Louis Tomlinson finds himself on his would-be honeymoon with his best friend, Niall. However, this St. Lucian paradise is not all that it seems. Louis may be particularly vulnerable to an unusually handsome predator.

On a Day Like This You Know It’s Meant To Be | t&up | 2k+  | read here on ao3

One year ago Harry Styles met Louis Tomlinson, the man of his dreams. Harry is certain he’ll never see him again, even if they did make a pact to reunite should the Chicago Cubs win the World Series. Harry has one small flicker of hope left when it appears the Cubs might actually win it all. But will Louis fulfill his end of this fateful bargain?

Won’t You Please Come Around | mature | 5k+ | read here on ao3

Harry has lived in London for a month, and so far the only friend he’s made is his sister’s cat, Mr. Whiskers. When the lock on the window breaks, Mr. Whiskers begins exploring his new neighbourhood a bit too thoroughly and brings back mementos of his escapes. Or a Valentine’s Day story where Harry has a really fit neighbour, and his cat is a thief.

Let Me Kiss You | mature | 3k+ | read here on ao3

Harry Styles is on top of the world. He’s moving to Chicago to live in a kick ass apartment that he’s sharing with his old college friend, Niall. When their old college crew makes plans to hang out, Harry realizes he will be coming face to face with his unrequited crush, Louis.

haven’t you heard | explicit | 8k | read here on ao3

Harry Styles has been in love with Louis Tomlinson since they were eighteen. After six years together, Harry is ready to propose to the love of his life. The holidays strike him as the perfect time for a romantic proposal, but his well-meaning friends and family (including his self-appointed best friend, Niall) seem to thwart him at every turn. Or the four times Harry tries to propose, and the one time he gets it right.

but tonight (you’re on my mind) | explicit | 36k | read here on ao3

Pairing: Nick Grimshaw/Louis Tomlinson (Tomlinshaw)

Nick’s friendship with the lead singer of Seventy Eight has come with a new circle of people including an entrancing, blue eyed drummer. But what brings them together can also tear them apart.

And I Could Hear the Thunder | mature | 1/? WIP | read here on ao3

Harry prepares to inherit his family’s estate, and Louis is the mysterious boy living in the manor to the north.

[elceeu2morrow]

By Rob Sheffield Aug 3, 2017 10 hours ago

It's official: All five lads in One Direction have kicked off their solo careers. Ever since 1D went on hiatus in late 2015 – we can only hope it's temporary – the world has been eager to hear what kind of history they'll make on their own. Some have dropped full-fledged albums; others are still getting their toes wet. But in the great Beatle tradition, they're all speaking their minds about the breakup, in the press and in their songs – whether they're dishing out praise or shade. Here's a handy guide to the story so far.

Louis Tomlinson

Solo music: Working on his first solo album after releasing one single, "Just Hold On," a banging duet with electronic DJ Steve Aoki. The most prolific songwriter in 1D – and the most continually surprising – so "Just Hold On" feels like just a taste of what he can do, more a teaser for glories to come than a proper solo debut.

Solo mystique: "Just Hold On" gained emotional resonance from the way he debuted it on The X Factor just a week after the tragic death of his mother from leukemia, making it sound like a heartfelt tribute.

Sounds like: Skrillex plus Diplo plus Calvin Harris times Stevie Wonder plus Howard Jones.

Sample lyric: "What do you do when the chapter ends?/Do you close the book and never read it again?"

Fighting words: "Niall, for example. He's the most lovely guy in the world. Happy-go-lucky Irish, no sense of arrogance. And he's fearless. There are times I've thought: 'I'd have a bit of that.' Zayn has a fantastic voice. Harry comes across very cool. Liam's all about getting the crowd going, doing a bit of dancing. And then there's me."

Equivalent Beatle record: George's "What Is Life?"

Harry Styles

Solo music: His debut was a Number One hit (obviously) and a deeply personal singer-songwriter statement (which wasn't obvious at all), steering away from celebrity glitz. "Sign of the Times," a five-minute piano ballad that's long and rambling and downright weird, made up in the studio on the spot, nonetheless went Top Ten. He kicks off his first solo tour this fall.

Solo mystique: He's making his mark as a credible adult rocker without the slightest hint of shade at his pop fans – which is merely the most difficult trick in show biz. He takes the all-smiles Paul McCartney exit ramp while Zayn has gone for John Lennon–style beef. And "Two Ghosts" drops sly hints about Taylor Swift – he even sings about a refrigerator light, an in-joke for Swifties everywhere – showing that he loves to keep everyone guessing.

Sounds like: Mick Jagger plus Harry Nilsson plus Taylor Swift plus Badfinger plus Donovan times Stevie Nicks.

Sample lyric: "You can't bribe the door on your way to the sky."

Fighting words: "How can you say young girls don't get it? They're our future. Our future doctors, lawyers, mothers, presidents, they kind of keep the world going. Teenage girl fans – they don't lie. If they like you, they're there."

Equivalent Beatle record: Paul's Band on the Run

Zayn Malik

Solo music: He quit 1D bitterly in 2014, calling them "generic." His R&B debut Mind of Mine went Number One in 2016, as did his single "Pillowtalk." The soft-porn video with model Gigi Hadid was his inevitable "hello, I've just left a boy band, so let me announce I am in favor of sex-having" statement. If Gigi is his Yoko, this was his Plastic Hadid Band. He also dueted with Taylor Swift on a Fifty Shades of Greysoundtrack theme.

Solo mystique: Talks about how repressed he felt in the group, yet hasn't quite backed it up with his pleasantly blah solo music. His best solo hit, "BeFoUr," comes on like a dis of his ex-bandmates, who made the album Four right BeFoUr he quit – and the capitalized letters suggest he's sending them a Big FU.

Sounds like: early the Weeknd meets late the Weeknd, with a side order of George Michael circa Listen Without Prejudice.

Sample lyric: "I don't drink to get drunk/I feel all the right funk."

Fighting words: "That's not music I would listen to. Would you listen to One Direction, say, at a party with your girl? I wouldn't. To me, that's not an insult, that's me as a 22-year-old man. As much as I was in that band, and I loved everything that we did, that's not music that I would listen to."

Equivalent Beatle record: John's "How Do You Sleep?"

Niall Horan

Solo music: The Irish guitar boy, always a hit with the moms, scored a great solo hit last fall with the understated and beautiful folkie ballad "This Town." As a nostalgic breakup song, it doubled as a bittersweet farewell to the group. His second solo single, "Slow Hands," goes for a sultrier, even bluesier vibe, with lyrics about making out.

Solo mystique: He's unflaggingly loyal to the group – he's the one who talks about how it's inevitable they'll get back together – and he's stuck to his long-running monogamous relationship with his acoustic guitar.

Sounds like: James Taylor meets Ed Sheeran, with Bonnie Raitt on lead guitar.

Sample lyric: "Slow hands/Like sweat dripping down our laundry."

Fighting words: "When One Direction come back we'll still have albums left to do. ... It's been a year and a bit already. We don't want to put a time on it. But when that phone call does come, no matter whoever it comes from, we're back again."

Equivalent Beatle record: Ringo's "Photograph"

Liam Payne

Solo music: The last to test the solo waters, Liam recently dropped "Strip That Down," a party-hearty flop with Ed Sheerhan and Migos' Quavo that missed the Top 40. He can do better – he cowrote some of 1D's finest tunes – so it's tough to guess why he even released it. He also just became a dad: Welcome to the world, Bear Payne!

Solo mystique: He gets personal about breaking free from 1D in "Strip That Down." But it's bizarre to hear Liam sing about hitting the club to chug rum and grind on groupies – it doesn't ring true from a guy who just had a baby with one of England's most famous models, Cheryl Cole. Quavo adds the unfortunate hook "She gonna strip it down for a thug" – there are many words to describe Liam, but "thug" doesn't make the top ten thousand.

Sounds like: Lil Jon plus Wham! plus Nu Shooz plus Huey Lewis plus the News.

Sample lyric: "I used to be in 1D/Now I'm out free/People want one thing from me/That's not me."

Fighting words: "Everyone is now free to do their own thing in music and explore the music. I was worried that people would take it negatively but it's not meant to be in that sense at all. None of us left the band; we're on hiatus still, and what a great hiatus it's been so far."

Equivalent Beatle record: Paul's "Spies Like Us."

[rfsak2]

Cactus, Part XIV

I didn’t know we would be blessed with Baby!Harry today, but I’m glad we were. Seems almost appropro... Enjoy!

Cactus, Part XIV Summary: Next Steps. The Styles Warning: None!

She smiled and kissed Niall on the cheek as he passed where she sat at the table.

“Ya good, Jamie?”

She nodded and rubbed her thumb over Harry’s thigh under the table. “I’m great! You?”

He nodded, slightly less awkward and uncomfortable then the other three men at the table.

She mimicked his nod and squeezed Harry’s thigh, before patting it and standing. “Well, I’m gonna go shopping… you guys-” she made a vague motion, wiggling her fingers at them, “-figure shit out, yeah?”

Harry pouted at her and grabbed for her hand, whispering lowly. “No, love. Don’t leave.”

She grabbed her purse with her free hand. “I’m not part of this, baby. I won’t be the Yoko to your John. You love these guys and you’re being unnecessarily avoidant. You’re a grown-ass, married man. Act like it. Take care of your shit, make your apologies and listen to theirs. You wanted this. Quit being silly.”

He tried for a grin and failed. “I won't act my age, no, I won't act my age. No, I'll still feel the same around you.”

“Cute.” She kissed his forehead and smiled at the other men. “Figure it out.”

“Have fun, Jamie.” Niall smiled.

Smiling, she turned away and then turned back. “Liam, did you ever send me a pic of Bear? A more recent one, I mean.” She checked her phone. “I have one of Freddie and I was going go print them and frame them while I was out. For our picture wall.”

Liam smiled and like that the tension was at least lessened. “I text ye one now.”

“A good one, though. One with you and Cheryl in it too?”

��Will do, Jamie.” He grinned. “Have fun. Go spend all of Haz’s money.”

She flicked him off, smiling, and waved, pausing to point down at Harry. “Get shit done, Styles.”

He grinned. “I love yeh, Styles.”

“Love you too.” She blew him a kiss.

As she left the bar, she could hear Louis chuckle. “I’ve always like yeh bird, mate. Bit ova hard-ass, innit? Doesn’t let you get with anythin’, does she?”

“Only when I’m bein’ dim. Look… I’m-”

She gave it a couple of hours and texted Niall, knowing that if it wasn’t going well, she’d get a straight answer out of him, not just a desperate plea from her 25-year-old toddler to come back and break up the awkwardness.

How’s it going?

It’s going fine, Jamie. Give us a tad longer. I’ll tell Harry text you.

Right. Sounds good.

‘A tad longer’ ended up being the rest of the afternoon, Harry calling her and telling her that he’d catch a lift with one of the boys and would see her at home.

Later, after unwrapping the newly framed pictures of Louis’ and Liam’s respective familie, she smiled. She took down the two older pictures of the boys down and tried to decide if the newer photos would fit or if she’d have rearrange to make room.

She was holding Louis’ photo up against the wall when she felt two lanky arms wrap around her waist.

Harry pressed his face into her neck and sighed. “Those are good photos.”

She nodded. “They’re both really cute little munchkins for sure.”

She lifted the photo of Niall and his girlfriend off its nail and held it up higher on the wall, trying to see if it would mess with the spacing of the whole wall.

Harry propped his chin on her shoulder and hummed. “I like it there.”

She set it down next to the other two photos. Smiling over her shoulder, she lifted the hammer off the little side table she had commandeered. “You wanna put those man hands to good use?”

He grinned and grabbed the hammer from her as she stepped out of the way.

“How’d it go, baby?” She passed him a nail.

He shrugged.

“Really. How’d it go?”

He smiled down at her and shrugged again with more purpose. He winked at her. “It wasn’t easy, but it wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be.”

She kissed his cheek. “Happy you did it?”

Leaning over to kiss her, he nabbed another nail. “Yes, I am quite pleased. Glad my wife is so smart.”

“Good.” She shot him a smug smile. “Glad my husband is humble enough to say so.” He snorted. “So you’re doin’ it then. 1D is coming back.”

Shrugging again, he took the last nail from her and sighed.

“Shrugger, no shrugging.”

He grinned and stuck his tongue out at her.

“You know you don’t have to do anythin’ you don’t want to do, right baby? You know that.”

He smiled at her. “I’m not… I want to do it. Loved bein’ in 1D, really did…”

“Then what?” She rubbed a hand over his side. “I don’t like seein’ ya so conflicted, baby. Talk to me.”

He tapped in the last nail. “I think I’m just worried.” He huffed. “What if we’re not relevant anymore, what if we’re just tryin’ to dig up somethin’ we killed four years ago?”

She nodded thoughtfully. “Do you really think it’s dead? There is a large group of twenty-somethings that would disagree.”

“But it’s different now. We’re different… older.”

Handing him Niall’s photo, she smiled. “You’re only 25, Harry. Nowhere near old.”

“True.” He nodded and hung it. “What if we’re going backwards? I want to keep moving forward.”

“Then keep moving forward.” She kissed his jaw. “Build off what you all accomplished separately and make this something that is relevant and is moving forward. They, the fans, the media, management, what have you, they’re always going to want to hear What Makes You Beautiful and Kiss You and Perfect and that’s okay, they’re great songs, but you guys can still make something new. No one wants to stay stagnant.” She passed him Louis’ photo and then Liam’s photo.

When both were hung the couple stepped back. She smiled up at him. “Looks good.”

He nodded and sat on the arm of the couch, pulling her between his legs. “So yeh think this is a good move? Yeh think this is the right thing?”

She smiled and wrapped her arms around his neck. “Do you want to do it? Honestly. No pressure. Do you want to do it?”

He was quiet for a long moment. “Yes.”

“Then do it.” She kissed his cheek. “Do good work and do it on y’all’s terms and no one else’s and do it for as long as you want to do it.”

He nodded. “Okay.” He tucked his face in her neck. “We talked a bit about the album. Looks like we’re gonna make it in London. Seems neater and easier.”

She winced. “For how long?”

“Couple of months at least.”

She took a deep breath. A couple of months shouldn’t seem so daunting but she knows that a couple of months could easily be three or four or more...and then there was a tour. “Okay.”

He pulled away just a bit to look at her. She wasn’t crying but she didn’t really look happy either. “None of that, love. I’m not leaving yeh here. Want yeh to come. Need yeh to come. Can’t be without yeh.” He gathered her against him again. “Want yeh to work on the album. We all do. Want yeh to be on t’tour too.”

She sighed and rubbed at the bridge of her nose. “1D has a band, baby.”

“We did.” He nodded. She didn’t miss the ‘we’ and it made her smile. “Four years ago. Some of them can’t come on short notice. We called them to see.” He shrugged. “Want both you and Mitch.”

She smiled and leaned up to kiss him. “Have you called Mitch?”

He nodded. “Texted him, yeah. He can work on the album but he’s got a commitment, can’t do a tour right now.”

She smiled. “Alright then.”

“Yeah?” He smiled and squeezed her closer. “You will?”

“Of course. When have I ever said no to workin’ with my hubby?” She kissed his temple. “And Mitchy. I miss Mitchy.”

“He was here last week.”

She shrugged. “We didn’t jam though. Just drank. I miss jammin’ with Mitchy.”

**

“What was that first conversation like?” The interviewer smiled gently. “Must have been a bit weird.”

Louis nodded. “It was a bit… a bit awkward.”

“Harry needed his emotional support... person.”

“Your what?”

Niall snorted. “His wife.”

Harry elbowed Liam. “I thought you were callin’ me wife an animal.”

With a wide, cheeky grin, Liam shook his head. “Nah, wouldn’t do that to Jamie-love. I like her more than I like you.”

Harry chuckled. “Arse.”

He patted Harry’s chest. “Did good, kid. She’s a good one.”

Louis smiled. “She left as soon as we were all there though. Went shoppin’. Left us to talk it out like men.”

Nodding, Niall shrugged. “It was a bit awkward and a bit weird but… y’know. We talked it out and here we are.”

The interviewer smiled. “Here you are. Are you proud of the album?”

Liam nodded. “Very proud, yeah.”

**

“So Harry, you’ve been married over a year now. Liam and Louis, you both have a child.”

“‘Niall’s all alone, forever single. Bachelor extraordinaire’.” Niall clutched a hand to his chest. “No one loves me.”

“Is that true? Are you single?”

Niall grinned. “Dunno. Might be.”

“So there have been some life changes since you were last here.” The interviewer smiled. “How does that change how you tour?”

“It makes it more difficult, of course. Have to balance everything better this time. Don’t want to end up burned out and angry that I missed my kid’s life, y’know.” Liam grinned. “I won’t speak for Louis, but Harry’s gone and married the guitarist, so not much changes for him, I’d guess.”

Harry shrugged. “I get a bigger room now.” He laughed into his fist, glancing at Jamie behind the camera. “No, but to be ser-”

“Wait really?” The interviewer chortled. “Did they have you on twin beds before?”

Louis shook his head. “Cots… four cots right next t’each other in one room. To keep us out of trouble.”

“Oh. Right. Did it work?”

“No, not particularly.”

Harry nodded. “Now they’re gonna like screen off a corner for me so me and the missus can have privacy. Do the same for Liam when Cheryl comes to visit.”

Casting a look over his shoulder at the woman shaking her head in the corner, the interviewer smiled. “Your wife is shaking her head. Don’t think I should believe you.”

“Good choice.” Harry grinned at her over the interviewer’s shoulder. “I’d believe her over me too.””

**

“Harry!”

Harry jumped. “Yes?”

The interviewer, a younger woman, smiled just shy of coy. “You’re growing your hair out again, I see.”

“Yeah… uh.” He glanced at Liam. “Yeah. Recently found out that my wife really liked my hair long.”

Louis chuckled. “Just now? You’ve been together for what… three years? Just found out now?”

Harry nodded. “Yeah... Y’know how she is. She didn’t want t’make a fuss over something silly. ‘Jus’ hair’ she said.” Grinning, he shrugged. “While we were recording,  one night, she must have been exhausted to even have brought up, she just turned to me and said ‘I’m kinda sad that I never got to have sex with you when you had the long hair.’”

Niall died laughing. “And that was that.”

Harry nodded. “Yep. Haven’t cut my hair since. But back to the album, we had a number-”

**

“There’s a slight difference between some of your older material and the new…” James chuckled and avoided Louis’ dead-ass stare.

“Really, James.”

James nodded. “Yes, there’s a difference between say Drag Me Down and Back At It.”

“No [bleep].”

Harry, back in back middle, covered his face while Niall and Liam each collapsed against his shoulder, grown men giggling.

Louis smiled sweetly, like he wasn’t the savage he clearly was. “What’s your question, James?”

He laughed, pretending to shrink away from him. “I’m gonna pull this car over and someone else is going to sit shotgun.”

“What’s your question?”

James grinned. “In what ways do you feel like you’ve matured and how has that changed your music as a band.”

Liam grinned. “Well… we’re men now, men with experience and responsibilities, I think… most of us anyway. Harry still can’t grow a beard.”

Harry shook his head at Liam, smiling. “My inability to grow a beard has actually added stability to our growth as a band… a constant… somethin’ unchanging.”

James snickered. “How does your wife feel about the beard situation?”

Harry sniffed, his nose turning up. “She loves me just as I am… Thank you very much.”

**

Harry grinned at the audience, feeling the rush of performing for tens of thousands of people, feeling the sheer difference in atmosphere between a One Direction concert and a solo-artist Harry Styles show.

He lifted the mic to his mouth. “It’s good to be back.” He strutted out down the walkway. “We’ve missed yeh. Have yeh missed us?”

The crowd roared.

“Good… Good.” He wiped his forehead playfully. “Was worried. Before we go any further, let me introduce yeh to the band.” The crowd cheered and he made a shushing motion. “First we have Jon Shone on the keyboard. Give it up for the keyboard!”

The crowd clapped.

“We have the always divine Josh Devine.” The crowd started cheering before he could even finish the sentence. “Give it up for Josh on the drums!”

He grinned. “We have Sandy Beales, who is still doin’ the same thing every night.”

Sandy grinned from the band podium and mouthed ‘You too!’

Harry grinned. “Sandy is on the bass guitar. Give it up for Sandy!! He’s also right. I too am no longer a bachelor.” The crowd roared and Harry turned to grin at Jamie. “Which leads me to the last member of our band, on the electric guitar…. MY WIFE!”

Jamie lifted her hand and smiled as the crowd cheered.

“I’m a very proud man.” Harry waved at her from halfway across the stadium. “Hey Monster!”

Jamie waved back and blew him a kiss.

The crowd went wild. “Give it up for Jamie Styles on the guitar!”

“So in case you missed it: that is Jon, Josh, Sandy and Jamie…” He grinned. “The J’s… and Sandy. Sandy, mate, you’re called Jack now… for the sake of being able to refer to the band as the J’s.”

Sandy gave a laugh and a thumbs up as the crowd laughed.

“They are the J’s and this is Better than Words.”

The crowd erupted as he skipped down the walkway, glancing back at Jamie every once and awhile.

“Better than words But more than a feeling Crazy in love Dancing on the ceiling.”

He sang to the first row of fans, making faces and flirting with screaming girls, before taking off back towards the main stage, pausing to grab Liam’s ass as he passed.

Winking up at her, he turned back to the crowd for the chorus before clambering up the band podium to get in behind her as Louis took up his mic.

She turned to look up at him. “What are you doin’, ya loon?”

As she looked back down to continue playing, she felt him nip in close, rolling his hips against her backside.

“Best I ever had Hips don't lie.”

He sang along in her ear and she had to fight to keep focused on playing an instrument.

“You make me wanna sss”

He pressed completely against her and she gasped, chuckling. “Not fair, Haz.”

“One more night Irreplaceable, crazy, we're crazy”

Grinning against her ear, he kept singing, before kissing her cheek and tearing off to sing the chorus with the boys.

It would be up on the internet by the end of the night and, if he did it every time they sang that song, she’d reckon that by the end of the tour, there’d be compilation video.

**

Harry gently massaged the back of her neck as she lay face-down on the bed. “Lou’s gettin’ yeh antibiotics, love.” He paused to listen to Lou on the phone. “No she’s not allergic. Do you have a pref-” She lifted her head to glare balefully at him. “Just get her whatever has the shortest course… wh- Yeah, she’s on birth control… No not the pill, the ring.” He listened for a minute. “Yeah, of course, I know. She’s me wife. Why shouldn’t I know?”

He rolled his eyes. “I don’t subscribe to toxic masc-”

“Harry!”

He looked down at Jamie. “What’s wrong, monster?”

“Can we shelve the social commentary? I just want my antibiotics and some sinus medication, baby. Please.”

He winced. “Sorry, love.”

“It’s okay, baby… shouldn’t have snapped at ya. I just feel like shit.”

He kissed the back of her head. “Lou, do you need any more info from us?”

Hanging up, he rubbed at the back of her neck again. “Cup of tea, love?”

She nodded and as he rushed off, she dove for her iPad.

Pulling up the calendar, she paled. She should’ve replaced her ring a we- nine days ago.

Shit. Fuck. Damn.

Not that she was feeling ill because she might be pregnant. She definitely had a sinus infection, it felt like she’d been hit in the face with a brick. Pregnancy didn’t cause that.

She went to the ensuite and removed the ring and sat on the toilet lid, staring down at the travertine tile.

Half of her, the part that doubted that she would make an even half-decent mother, that feared that there was a chance that being a terrible mother was more hereditary than being addicted to heroin, wanted to just insert a new ring and hope that she wasn’t already pregnant.

Harry would be none-the-wiser.

But she would know.

She sighed.

She would know that she had lied to the most important person in her life. She would know that, despite knowing how much Harry wanted to have kids, despite knowing that he’d only waited this long because he knew she was terrified of her biological family’s history creeping up on her-

That despite knowing all this, she lied to him and risked not only her health, but the health of a hypothetical maybe-child that she, if she were honest, already loved the idea of having.

She could be pregnant right now.

She cradled her stomach with shaking hands. Right now there could be a little nugget of joy hidden deep within her. A little bit of Harry mixed with a little bit of her.

She could be pregnant.

She stood and washed her hands, grabbing her phone off the nightstand.

Lou-boo… can you get a pregnancy test… too? Ha! A rhyme!

Do you think you’re pregnant? Haz said you’re on the ring.

I am, but in all the hustle and bustle and tour shit, I’ve forgotten to replace it. Hadn’t even thought about it until Haz mentioned it when he was talking to you.

I’m probs not.. But I need to check before I can start up again.

What happens if you are? Do you want me to get Plan B? Pregnancy test might not be able to tell you right now anyway.

No to Plan B. If I’m pregnant then we’re having a baby. If not then… well I’m about to have that convo with the man-child. So we’ll see.

Ok. Have fun.

“Here’s the tea, love.”

She turned and stepped against him, wrapping her arms around him and burying her face in his collarbone.

“What’s wrong?” He pressed a kiss to her hair and wrapped himself around her. “Are yeh okay, love?”

She smiled. “I forgot to replace my ring last month.”

Nose still pressed to her hair, Harry froze. “Are yeh sayin’ yer pregnant, Jamie?”

She shrugged. “Don’t know. Asked Lou to get a pregnancy test.”

“Ok.” His chest expanded under her cheek as he took a deep breath and reached down to coax her face out of his chest. “What happens if yer pregnant?”

She smiled and kissed his chin. “If I’m pregnant, then congrats you’re gonna be a dad.”

He chuckled a little breathlessly and smiled down at her. “And if not?”

She nodded. “That’s what we have to decide. Do I go back on birth control or do we take this as a sign to just do it?”

“T’do what, love?”

“To start a family.” She smiled. “Do you want to start a family with me?”

“Do yeh want to start a family? Do yeh want to have a baby?” He kissed her. “Love, yeh know what I want, but this is yer body and if yeh don’t feel ready then that’s fine. We can wait.”

She pressed her face into his chest. “Part of me is terrified. Truly, absolutely terrified. I’m scared that I’ll be a shit mom, that I’ll be like my bio mom-”

“Yer nothing like yer biological mother, love.”

“But we don’t know that.” She cuddled in closer. “I could be just like her. I don’t really remember anythin’ about her. For all I know, I could be her spittin’ image.”

“Maybe so.” He shrugged. “Maybe yeh do look like her, but yer not a heroin addict. Yer a musician with a very successful career. Yer a married woman in a stable, supportive relationship with a man who loves the fuck outta yeh. Yeh are one of the calmest, most naturally maternal women I’ve ever met. Yeh are just like yer actual mum.”

He smiled down at her. “But if yer scared, then we’ll wait. That’s a no brainer, love. Yer not a baby factory. I’m not gonna force yeh to have my babies.”

She nodded. “Are you ready to have kids, baby?”

“I think so. I think I’ve been ready since before we got married.” He kissed her head. “One time I saw this woman at the shop. She was obviously not yeh, but she was blonde and she had a couple tattoos and she had a daughter, probably five years old...Her daughter just followed her around the fruit aisle askin’ what everythin’ was. She was so patient, answerin’ every question. I just stared. For a second, I just wanted for that to be yeh, for that little girl to be ours.”

She sniffed and tried to wipe at her eyes without him noticing and failed.

He pulled back and laid his forehead against hers. “Sorry, love. Didn’t mean to make yeh cry.”

She shook her head. “It’s fine. When was that?”

“After yer cousin’s weddin’.”

She smiled. “Really?”

He nodded. “I think seeing you with your family…” Pausing, he shrugged.

There was a knock on the door and Harry went to open it, letting Lou in.

Lou smiled and opened her arms for Jamie.

“Scared, lovely?”

Jamie smiled and hugged the taller woman. “A bit, yeah… but less so than ten minutes ago.”

Lou nodded. “Well, I picked up a couple of tests with the earliest response times I could find. Also told the pharmacist that you might be preggers and he gave me the medicine you could take if you were. Then I asked if being on tour would be bad for a pregnant woman.” She shrugged. “Thought I’d be thorough. He said that as long as your doctor says you’re healthy, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with being on tour.”

“Okay.” Nodding, Jamie took a deep breath, hands on her hips.

Hugging her once more, Lou kissed her forehead. “Well, call if you need anythin’ but I’ll leave you to it, yeah?” Lou made for the door and closed it behind her after blowing them a kiss. “Have fun.”

Curled up in his lap as they waited, she smiled. “I want to be pregnant.”

“Yeah, y’sure?”

She nodded. “Yeah. The longer I think about it, the more I want it.”

The timer she set on her phone rang and she took a deep breath, holding her hand out to him.

Harry smiled and grabbed her hand, letting her lead him into the bathroom.

Yes.

Yes.

An Interlude Up Next: Part XV