Atif Aslam Reveals What Made Him ‘Go Back to Zero’

News Desk

Islamabad: Pakistani singer Atif Aslam has opened up about the pressures that come with success, clarifying that he never considered quitting music but deliberately sought distance from commercial expectations to rediscover his creative freedom.

Speaking in a recent interview with Indian YouTube channel ‘The Curly Tales’, the internationally acclaimed singer reflected on his journey to fame, the growing expectations placed on artists and his decision to independently produce an album after nearly 18 years.

Atif said he still finds it difficult to explain how he achieved such widespread success, noting that every hit song brings new pressure to deliver something even better.

According to the singer, an artist may celebrate the success of one song but soon begin wondering whether audiences will accept the next one. As an album grows and expectations increase, the responsibility becomes even greater.

Atif also acknowledged Bollywood’s contribution to his international recognition, saying the Indian film industry played a significant role in expanding his reach and success.

Reflecting on his own achievements, the singer downplayed the idea that success is solely the result of hard work, saying he believes destiny and divine will played a major role in taking him to where he is today.

However, Atif said fame can eventually create a creative burden for artists. He explained that there are periods when musicians struggle to find new ideas and feel as though they have nothing left to say or write.

He described such phases as a natural part of an artist’s life rather than a reason to abandon music.

“I have never thought of leaving music,” Atif said, explaining that creative exhaustion can temporarily make it difficult for an artist to write or compose.

The singer said artists should also learn to appreciate periods of happiness and success rather than constantly chasing the next achievement.

Atif discussed his song ‘Subh Aaye Na’ from his recently released fourth studio album, describing it as a reflection of self-discovery and faith in Allah.

He also revealed that his decision to work independently on an album after 18 years was partly driven by a desire to step away from commercial projects and return to making music primarily for himself.

“I am back to zero again,” he said, explaining that he wanted to rediscover the fearless mindset of an artist who simply wants to create and release music.

Atif remains active on the international music scene, performing concerts in Pakistan, Canada and North America. With millions of followers worldwide, he continues to be one of Pakistan’s most recognised musical artists.

Despite his reflections on creative struggles and fame, Atif made it clear that there is no plan to walk away from music. Instead, his latest phase appears to be about reconnecting with the creative freedom that shaped his career in the first place.