Louis Tomlinson on BTS' Global Takeover: "I Used to Feel a Little Bit Ashamed"

Former One Direction member Louis Tomlinson, who is now a successful solo artist, recently shared his honest opinions on seeing BTS surpass many of the records his band had held. Prior to the release of his new album, Tomlinson gave an emotional interview in which he called the experience "a bit of a shame," acknowledged that the music industry is always changing, and expressed admiration for BTS' achievements. His reflections highlight both the legacy of One Direction and the shifting landscape of global pop music, as newer acts continue to break boundaries and rewrite history.

One Direction's Record Breaking Legacy and Louis' Solo Journey

Like few boy bands before them, One Direction dominated the pop world in the 2010s. Louis Tomlinson, Harry Styles, Liam Payne, Niall Horan, and Zayn Malik formed the group on The X Factor UK in 2010. With hits like 'What Makes You Beautiful' and other chart-topping albums, the group shot to international prominence. They created a devoted fan base known simply as Directioners, sold out arenas, and broke records. 1D defined a period of popular pop success by continuously setting new records in album sales, concert attendance, and fan interaction. 

Image Courtesy: Harper's Bazaar

Louis Tomlinson's solo career underwent a profoundly dramatic transformation following the band’s temporary suspension in 2016 and the untimely death of Liam Payne in 2024. After releasing multiple albums, he is currently preparing for the release of 'How Did I Get Here?,' his third studio album, on 23rd January, 2026.

After leaving One Direction, Tomlinson has been candid about his worries, which range from embracing his own artistic identity away from the enormous group limelight to worrying about becoming obsolete. 

Also Read: https://indigomusic.com/pop-cultures/whats-up-pop-news/after-golden-globes-victory-timoth%C3%A9e-chalamet-soft-launches-relationship-with-kylie-jenner-on-instagram-10996832

Image Courtesy: News18

BTS' Meteoric Rise and Louis' Honest Take

While One Direction's records defined a generation, BTS became a huge presence in international music during the 2010s and beyond, particularly in regions previously thought to be challenging for non-Western performers to penetrate. With accomplishments like the most-viewed YouTube videos in a 24-hour period and ground-breaking chart placements, the South Korean septet set global streaming and sales records, redefining what global superstars can look like in the digital age. 

In a recent interview with Billboard, Tomlinson acknowledged that at first, he felt a little "ashamed"—not of BTS, but of his surprise at how quickly the music industry had changed—after witnessing BTS regularly surpass One Direction's records on sites like X (previously Twitter). He explained that since "that's the nature of the music industry—it keeps moving," he doesn't hold grudges against BTS for their success.

Image Courtesy: Teen Vogue

His honesty struck a chord with many, and fans from both camps applauded his respectful acknowledgment of BTS' global impact. Tomlinson also considered what made One Direction unique, emphasizing that the group defied the conventional "boy band mould" by allowing their individuality to come through rather than adhering to choreography and matching costumes. Despite BTS' success, he believes there hasn't truly been another phenomenon quite like One Direction—highlighting that different eras yield different kinds of stars.

Respectful Reflections and Looking Forward

Tomlinson's remarks coincide with a reflective period in his professional life. He strikes a balance between reflecting on the vast legacy of his career and embracing the current music landscape with 'How Did I Get Here?' a fresh creative chapter. His opinion on BTS and One Direction's albums is mature, grounded in respect for art, progress, and the thrill of what's to come, rather than being resentful or competitive.

Image Courtesy: PM Studio Worldwide News

In a time when comparisons between artists can fuel rivalry, Tomlinson's candid perspective reminds fans and industry observers alike that music's power lies in its ability to connect across generations and cultures, and that records, like everything else in art, are ultimately meant to be broken and celebrated. 

Also Read: https://indigomusic.com/pop-cultures/whats-up-pop-news/the-mummy-gets-a-modern-horror-makeover-as-lee-cronin-reveals-first-teaser-10996950