Former One Direction singer Zayn Malik is out on his own, and he recently released the cover art for his upcoming solo album. Featuring a photo from his childhood, updated with his tattoos from adulthood, many couldn’t help but notice Mind of Mine‘s striking resemblance to Lil Wayne’s Tha Carter III cover – and promptly called Zayn out on it.

Zayn has now responded via Twitter, explaining he’s “not tryna be no rapper,” and that his ideas have been with him “a long time.” Longer than 2008 – when C3 was released, though? Doubt it! He also RT’d a fan who noted that other artists have long been using their baby pictures for cover art (funny how all of their examples were rappers that Zayn is “not tryna be”), but the difference is clearly the tattoos. What do you think? Check out the comparisons in the gallery and let us know your thoughts!

Mind of Mine is slated for release on March 25.

Jazlana: Twitter || Instagram