Atif Aslam says he 'went back to zero' to rediscover himself through new album

Ahead of the release of his fourth studio album, Subah Aye Na, Atif Aslam has revealed that years of global touring left him disconnected from his artistic roots, prompting him to "go back to zero" and rediscover himself as a musician. Speaking in recent interviews with Virgin Radio Dubai and Khaleej Times, Aslam reflected on the journey behind his first studio album in 18 years, discussing fame, creativity, success and the personal transformation that shaped the project. "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," he said.

Aslam described Subah Aye Na as a deeply personal project, saying he wanted to reconnect with the joy of writing and performing music that reflected his own experiences. "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." View this post on Instagram Looking back on the past 25 years, the singer said constant work, touring and commercial projects had gradually distanced him from himself. "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." Unlike previous projects, Aslam said he refused to rush the album.

"I did not want to be driven by timelines. I wanted it to come straight from the soul." The singer admitted he had intended to release another album long ago but struggled to complete 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 said. "But you eventually have to decide when you will perform and when you will make your own music. You have to do both." Aslam added that he hopes to release a new album every year going forward.

View this post on Instagram 'Fame and money are a trap' Reflecting on success, Aslam described fame and wealth as distractions that can distance artists from their purpose. The power of fame and money is a trap," he said. "I have my own struggles, but I am trying to get out of it and work on myself.