See Zayn Malik Perform With 1D Over The Years

If you are a One Direction fan (even just the slightest), by now you probably know that Zayn Malik has left One Direction. And if you don't know that by now, seriously, where have you been all morning? Fans are super upset by the news, not just because of the uncertain fate of the band, but because Zayn has always been a fan favorite among the boys. Ever since his first audition on the UK X-Factor, teenage girls have never been the same. Maybe it was the accent, maybe it was the dreamy eyes, or maybe it was just because the boy's got talent (if I'm being honest here, it's probably a combination of all three).

Zayn, and the rest of the boys have changed so much over the years, from their hair to their tattoos. It's hard to believe that one chapter in this journey is now over for good. While I respect Zayn's decision to leave, I can't help but feel sad that One Direction will never be the same as it was before. So as you mourn the loss of one of your favorite boy band members, grab some tissues as we take you down memory lane with a few of Zayn's greatest performances.

Zayn's X Factor Audition

The audition that started it all. Hard to believe this happened exactly 5 years ago last week. Zayn, let us love you!

First One Direction Performance

After Simon Cowell put the boys together, they had their first official performance as a group at "judges' houses" singing the song "Torn." How ironic, right?

X Factor Live Tour

Even though the boys came in third for the competition, they became wildly successful in the UK. They even joined the show's tour singing that song that would have been their first hit, "Forever Young" had they won. This image of the boys is forever in our hearts.

First U.S. Television Appearance

After their single "What Makes You Beautiful" went viral in the U.S. (number 28 on Billboard Hot 100 to be exact) the boys made their first televised appearance in the states on The Today Show in 2012. No big deal that almost 15,000 fans showed up for the performance. Zayn, you are beautiful!

First Headlining Concert Tour

In 2011, the boys began their first headlining tour, Up All Night, starting in the UK and then making their way over to North America. I'm gonna be up all night…crying.

Royal Variety Performance

Maybe one of the coolest One Direction performances, the band got to sing their hit "Little Things" at the 2012 Royal Variety Performance where Queen Elizabeth II herself was in attendance.

First SNL Performance

Last December, the band went to the Big Apple for their first performance on the hit NBC show SNL singing "Night Changes." Oh, how fast things change.

Zayn's Last One Direction Performance

It really was the "Best Song Ever" as Zayn made his final appearance as a member of the group for their World Tour in Hong Kong on March 18. We definitely won't forget him!

Images: Getty Images