Atif Aslam says he rediscovered himself through new album
Pakistani music icon Atif Aslam has opened up about the personal journey behind his upcoming studio album Subah Aye Na, revealing that years of touring and commercial commitments left him disconnected from his artistic identity. Ahead of the album’s release, the singer shared that he had to “go back to zero” to rediscover himself as an artist.
Speaking in recent interviews with Virgin Radio Dubai and Khaleej Times, Aslam reflected on the creative process behind Subah Aye Na, his first studio album in 18 years. The singer described the project as one of the most personal milestones of his career.
“I forgot who I was, so I went back to zero and told myself that people had made me a star, by the grace of God, but now is the time to become an artist,” Aslam said.
The singer explained that after spending more than two decades performing around the world, he realised he had been creating music mainly for audiences, concerts and record labels rather than for himself.
“I have been doing it for the people, for my listeners, for music companies,” he said. “I thought of doing something for myself. And I found myself through this album.”
Reflecting on the past 25 years of his career, Aslam admitted that his busy schedule had gradually distanced him from the creative passion that first inspired him to pursue music.
“I had somehow lost touch with myself while staying busy with projects, concerts and other things, though that too is a blessing I acknowledge. But it was about time to look within and do what my heart had been yearning for,” he shared.
Unlike his previous work, Aslam said he refused to rush the album’s production and instead allowed the music to develop naturally.
“I did not want to be driven by timelines. I wanted it to come straight from the soul,” he explained.
The award-winning singer also confessed that he had planned to release another album years ago but never completed it.
“I was working on the album, but I couldn’t compile it earlier. I guess you could say, as candidly as it gets, that I was lazy,” he admitted with a smile. “But you eventually have to decide when you will perform and when you will make your own music. You have to do both.”
Looking ahead, Aslam revealed that he hopes to maintain a more consistent release schedule and aims to put out a new album every year.
During the interviews, the Aadat singer also shared that cricket—not music—was his first dream. He revealed that he wanted to become a fast bowler and was even selected for an under-19 cricket team before his parents encouraged him to focus on academics.
“I wanted to be a fast bowler. I got selected for the under-19 cricket team, but my parents wanted me to study,” he recalled.
Aslam said he only realised his vocal potential after his father’s transfer to another city.
“When I hit that high note, I got scared. That’s when I realised something could come of it,” he said.
Explaining the difference between his albums and film songs, Aslam noted that his studio records are deeply personal because he composes them himself.
“I have composed all of my albums myself, but film songs are created with music producers and directors. My albums reflect what I have been through, the people I have met, what has inspired me and how it has shaped me,” he said.
The singer also expressed gratitude to his Indian fans, recalling how his music first reached audiences across the border.
“I remember when my first album came out, people would burn CDs and take them to India. Now we’re back to those days again,” he said, while thanking listeners who continue to support his music despite ongoing restrictions.
Subah Aye Na, featuring eight tracks, is scheduled for release on July 31, marking Aslam’s long-awaited return to the studio album format after nearly two decades.
