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FACT
09-06-2025
- Entertainment
- FACT
FACT Chats: Atif Aslam talks fame, faith, and finding himself through music
From humble beginnings to legendary status, the Pakistani singer has amassed a global following of millions. It's 2004. I'm living my best life in Riyadh, but the closest I've gotten to Pakistani music is a few cassette tapes of Junoon and Vital Signs. And then, one evening, while lazily flipping through TV channels, I stumbled across a song that sounded different. It's raw and gripping in a way that feels personal, even though I don't know what the lyrics mean yet. It was Aadat by a new band called Jal, fronted by Atif Aslam. Within seconds, I'm hooked and so is my best friend. We can't stop talking about it. Our schoolbooks turn into pages of doodles and lyrics, passed between classes like secret letters. The obsession was real. So real that after browsing fan pages and forums on dial-up internet, I managed to find Atif Aslam's manager's number. Called him from a landline at 2am in Riyadh and whispered into the receiver like I was smuggling state secrets. 'Please, can I speak to Atif Aslam?' is what I asked his manager, and after some convincing, he handed over the phone to the icon himself, who was heading down from the stage fresh off a college or university performance. I don't remember what I spoke to Atif Aslam about, but I had told myself that if I ever got the chance to talk to him again, I'd ask him. It took me two decades, pursuing a career in journalism, and a last-minute schedule shuffle to finally make it happen. When I got the call that my slot with Atif Aslam was confirmed, I knew that this was my shot. An anxious 30-minute drive later, I was face-to-face with the voice that shaped my teenage years, my friendships, my first heartbreak – my wedding entrance even. I wore my grandfather's shirt to the interview, a man who never quite understood my Atif Aslam obsession. He passed away earlier this year and would probably shake his head if he knew, but he'd also understand because this wasn't just an interview. It was a full-circle moment. From a silly teenager making secret, international midnight calls from Riyadh, to a grown woman with a press pass and a voice recorder. And while the fangirl in me wanted to squeal, the journalist — and Capricorn — kept her cool. We exchanged pleasantries and got into the music, memories, and magic. From humble beginnings to a household name, Atif Aslam has witnessed the full arc of transformation. And yet, there's a steady humility in how he recalls it all — not as trophies, but as turning points. With over 20 years in the spotlight, he has remained both elusive and ever-present. In this chat, he reflects on the defining moments of his journey, the burden and blessing of fame, and the power of rediscovering joy in his craft. Looking back, it isn't the standing ovations or chart-topping records that Atif Aslam highlights first, but the quiet milestones such as his first paycheck and the moment his parents accepted his passion for music. Aadat turned his tide, launching him into the spotlight. But behind this rise was a young man watching his dreams unfold, armed with a voice that refused to be ignored. For a career that began with a soft rock ballad recorded on a modest budget, the trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable. From underground stardom to Bollywood's Tere Bin, and Sufi tunes like Tajdar-e-Haram, Atif Aslam has always resisted being boxed into a single genre. 'The sound has always evolved,' he reflects. But it's the environment around him that inspires his music. 'It's the people around me, a sudden thought or an unexpected emotion,' he explained. 'I'm lazy when it comes to capturing the moment, but when it hits, it's often because of the energy in the room.' Over the years, that energy has travelled with him through massive performances, from Dubai's Coca-Cola Arena to the Royal Albert Hall in London. Among the many memorable shows, one that stands out took place at the O2 Arena. 'We had to cover for another artist who didn't show up, and we ended up performing for three and a half hours,' he laughs. 'Someone from the crowd said, 'We came for — I don't want to name the artist — but we're leaving as your fans.' That was a beautiful twist of fate.' It's easy to think of Atif Aslam as a larger-than-life figure, but he remains surprisingly grounded. Had music not found him, he might have pursued a career in aviation or cricket. But giving up never felt like a real option — even during moments of doubt. Though the industry came with its share of pressures, including moral dilemmas about lyrics he didn't align with, he always found a way to return to himself. 'There were songs I didn't feel right singing,' he admitted. 'I had to change lyrics, but I had a family to take care of, a career to keep.' However, those tensions also prompted him to shift toward more spiritually rooted pieces that resonated with his soul, such as Wohi Khuda Hai, which showcased both his musical prowess and passion. There were also times when even fame felt like a burden. Being called the 'number one singer' everywhere, Atif Aslam began questioning it. 'Do I want to be number one? Do I even believe it?' he shared. 'But then I realised it's not for me to decide. If God gives you that position, be grateful and stay humble. Because nothing lasts forever.' That's also something he'd tell his younger self: 'So enjoy it while it lasts.' And fame, he's learned, is a double-edged sword. It's 'having the power to misuse fame but choosing not to'. Atif Aslam believes, 'Treating people like humans, regardless of what they've done to you, is the real measure of success.' Becoming a father also shifted his worldview. 'It didn't hit me in the first two years, but then I saw my son growing up and realised I wanted to take a back seat,' he chimes. 'He became my centre. But Atif Aslam still needs to sing to function, but there's a deeper intent behind each note. 'Music is spirituality,' he added. 'It's how I communicate with God. I found Him through it.' Lately, fans have been seeing a candid side of Atif Aslam — one that embraces goofy moments and connects with fans in surprising ways. The man who once projected mystery now posts reels. But this isn't a reinvention, it's a revelation. 'I've always been like this! I just never showed it publicly,' he laughs. 'It helps me connect. I don't want to be that untouchable 'legend'. I'm still here. I see you. I hear you.' But he also draws a line wherein his home life, for example, remains off-screen. 'Some things are sacred,' he adds. For UAE fans, Atif Aslam is more than a touring artist, he's practically a regular with Dubai being a 'second home'. And when he's not on stage, he's often spotted attending concerts and events, slipping into the crowd. 'When I'm in the audience myself, I see things differently,' he shared. 'The real connection isn't always in the views or streams, it's in how people respond when you're in front of them.' After all that he's achieved, Atif Aslam is still searching — but not for stardom. 'I'm not seeking Atif, the star,' he says. 'As Atif, the human being, I still need to look within, ask myself tough questions, fall, regroup, fall again, and rise again.' The search is inward now. And if he had to describe his journey in one word, it would be 'water', translating to 'jal' — ever-flowing, ever-changing, and always finding its way. As for the call that I made to him over 20 years ago, he didn't remember. Which, honestly, was a bit of a relief. But he laughed and said, 'You should include that in the interview.' So here it is, as a gentle reminder that sometimes the moments we hold onto are often the ones that shape us the most, moving us forward — just like water. GO: Follow @atifaslam on Instagram for more information.
Time Out Dubai
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
Atif Aslam to perform at Global Village in Dubai: Tickets only Dhs25
One of South Asia's most famous stars is coming to Global Village this week. Atif Aslam will take to the main stage at the multicultural family destination on Sunday April 27. And the best bit? You'll only have to pay Dhs25 to see him. The Pakistani star, who boasts hundreds of millions of streams on Spotify, is no stranger to Global Village, having performed on two previous occasions. Concerts at the main stage of Global Village are included in the price of general admission to the foodie, entertainment and shopping hotspot. Known for his powerhouse vocals, magnetic stage presence and connection with his audience, Aslam is back to perform to thousands on a night you won't easily forget. Credit: Global Village Born in Lahore, Pakistan, Aslam first rose to fame with his hit song Aadat, which became an anthem across the subcontinent. With a blend of pop, rock, and classical influences, his music spans languages, including Hindi, Urdu and Punjabi, making him a proper international star. With chart-topping hits like Tera Hone Laga Hoon, Jeene Laga Hoon and Dil Diyan Gallan, Aslam has become a household name in Pakistan, India and across the globe. His performances are known to be quite legendary because of his magnetic stage presence. So whether you're a longtime admirer of his ballads or you're ready to dance the night away to high-energy hits, this concert promises to be a journey through his most beloved tracks. Dubai's family fun destination closes every summer due to the scorching temperatures, and this year, the park's final day of season 29 will be Sunday May 11. Dhs25. Sun Apr 27, 8pm. Global Village. In other Dubai news Dubai's Mall of the Emirates to undergo huge expansion — here's what to expect You're going to see some big changes 50 brilliant outdoor activities to try at least once in Dubai Let's take this outside The incredible Dubai hotels offering more than just a room Did someone say freebies?
Khaleej Times
27-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Khaleej Times
Dubai: Atif Aslam takes to Global Village stage ahead of season closing
Popular Pakistani artist Atif Aslam took to the main stage at Global Village on Sunday evening. Aslam, who shot to fame with his hit Aadat, melds pop, rock and classical music in his singles. Fans can expect the Pakistani heartthrob to sing tracks including Tera Hone Laga Hoon, Jeene Laga Hoon, Woh Lamhe, and Tere Bin. Global Village, Dubai's annual family-friendly globetrotting expedition, said earlier today that it would remain open until 2am. The destination is open until May 11, this season. So far, it has hosted a number of well-known stars such as Bollywood's Shah Rukh Khan and Varun Dhawan and tribute shows to artiste's such as Katy Perry and Taylor Swift. This year, Global Village is hosting 30 pavilions that represent over 90 cultures, with more than 3,500 shopping outlets and over 250 dining options.
Express Tribune
23-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
Atif Aslam opens up about ‘Aadat' criticism by Noori
Listen to article Singer Atif Aslam has recounted an early experience from his music career, stating that members of the band Noori had once criticised his first track, Aadat, during an informal review session. In a resurfaced video interview shared by a fan-run Instagram account named Anam S (@byyouraadee), Atif Aslam described the circumstances under which he first played Aadat for Noori. At the time, he said, the band was considered a major act in Pakistan's music scene, and he had asked a mutual friend to arrange a meeting for feedback. 'They were all sitting in a room,' Atif Aslam said in the video. 'I played the song. When it ended, most of them started commenting that it was a really bad, nonsense song. Some called it cheap. They said there was no need for this song in the market.' According to Atif Aslam, only one individual in the room responded favourably. He did not name the person. Despite the response, Atif Aslam continued to promote the song independently. Within a short span, Aadat was released and began to gain traction among listeners, eventually becoming widely circulated through local platforms and media. The song 'Aadat' was first released in December 2003 by Atif Aslam and Goher Mumtaz as the underground rock duo Jal. This initial release was made public via the internet and Pakistani music channels, quickly gaining viral popularity. At the time, Atif was Jal's lead vocalist, and he recorded 'Aadat' at age 17 using his own pocket money. The track became a youth anthem almost overnight – as soon as it hit the airwaves in late 2003, it blew up on radio and TV across Pakistan, In the same interview, Atif Aslam noted that less than two years after the initial criticism, the members of Noori were part of the lineup at one of his concerts, performing before his own set. Photo: ScreenGrab In response to Atif Aslam's account of early rejection, fans showed strong support online. As seen in the comments under the resurfaced clip, many praised his perseverance and acknowledged the challenges he had faced. Atif Aslam has not issued any additional comments about the video or the post. The band Noori has also not responded publicly. Aadat, released in the early 2000s, remains one of the most circulated tracks from Pakistan's pop-rock scene and played a key role in launching Atif Aslam's music career.
Express Tribune
16-02-2025
- Entertainment
- Express Tribune
There is more to life than just a breakup: Atif Aslam
In this month of love, if you want to help get over a break-up, singer Atif Aslam has the perfect advice: just be happy that it happened and move on. Filming a special behind-the-scenes video of his upcoming Qatar concert, Atif delighted fans with a candid nearly 15-minute video on his YouTube channel on Thursday where he answered questions about anything they could think of, ranging from whether or prefers chocolate cake or a cookie ("A cookie!") to the inspiration behind his cult hit Aadat ("It came from a place of loneliness"), or, as a fan from Delhi asked, how he could best advise her to get over a breakup. "Congratulations, this is the best thing you could have done for yourself!" exclaimed Atif in his vlog, breaking into a smile. To make it clear, Atif is not against romantic love per se; as a successful musician and a happily married man and father, he is merely in a place where he understands that it is not the end-all or be-all – as his subsequent words explained. "I'm very proud of you. Life is about more than just breakups and relationships!" stressed Atif. "Make your career, flourish in it. "And then make enough money so that a relationship is something you will find yourself." Navigating marriage It was not just moving past a broken relationship that Atif offered advice on – the singer also gave a little window into the machinations of his own marriage, and how he personally tackles conflict. In answer to another fan's question about how he handles fights with his wife of nearly 12 years, Sara Bharwana, Atif baldly stated, "When my wife is upset with me, I just say sorry. It's as simple as that." Atif confessed, however, that learning how to apologise is not something that has always come easily or naturally to him, and that he has worked on his conflict-resolution skills since tying the knot. "I have heard from friends that getting the word sorry out of me is the hardest thing ever, and I reflected on that," mused Atif. "I realised it is a form of ego, and I also know that Allah does not like ego at all." Passing on the torch, Atif added, "So when you feel something is your fault and someone makes you realise it, and you understand they are right, don't be stubborn!" Looking back on 'Aadat' Atif reflected that there was a time when he could have never imagined that the success of Aadat (2004) would catapult him to where he is today. "The backstory of Aadat is that I was going through a breakup," said Atif in answer to a query. "There were certain elements of my life and I knew I would rather communicate through lyrics and melody. Our social media was MIRC chatrooms and dial-up networks. I never imagined it would become as popular as it did." Juggling family and career When asked about how he balances touring and meeting the needs of his family, Atif credited his parents for introducing him to the concept of prayer, which he says keeps him grounded. "That is ultimately everything," noted Atif, and also made special mention of his wife Sara's support. "I've been blessed with a beautiful wife – she is my support system, and if she was not there, I wouldn't be here now," said the Tere Bin singer warmly. "She is my backup." Contrary to people's images of a music star coming with a big ego, Atif – a self-professed introvert ("No one told me that we need to talk!") who found a way to express his feelings via music – added that the only reason he had undertaken the vlog in the first place was so that his fans had asked for it. His fans, in turn, have loved him for it. "I never want Atif Aslam to end," penned a commenter. "He is the one who makes me feel like I am in a relationship even when I am single." Bowled over by Atif's candid video, another fan added, "Love how sweet, humble, approachable, and a little bit silly he is!"
