Atif Aslam is a renowned musician, singer, songwriter, composer, and actor who has been in the music industry for nearly 17 years. He has inspired millions with his soulful and heartfelt music, and his journey is nothing short of fascinating. In this interview with Magzoid Magazine, Atif shares his story, including how he first got interested in music, the biggest challenges he faced in the industry, how he handles criticism and rejection, and his charitable work. He also offers advice to aspiring musicians and artists and shares a memorable experience from one of his live performances. This is an insightful and inspiring interview that any music lover or aspiring musician won’t want to miss.
Q. How did you get interested in music? Can you share a little bit about your journey to becoming a successful musician?
Hi, I’m Atif Aslam, and I’ve been a musician, singer, songwriter, composer, and actor for almost 17 years now. Thanks for having me on Magzoid Magazine. When asked about my interest in music, I have to say that I wasn’t initially interested in playing music. It was actually my eldest brother who played a lot of music at home that inspired me to pursue music. One album that particularly stood out to me was Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Michael Brooks’ collaboration, which inspired me to do what I’m doing today. For me, music provides a unique high that cannot be compared to anything else.
Q. What was the biggest challenge you faced when you first started out in the music industry, and how did you stay motivated to pursue your dreams?
One of the biggest challenges I faced when I first started out in the music industry was the release of my album. Maintaining success and coming up with one hit after another was not an easy task, and it was even more difficult to maintain relationships with people in my life while pursuing my career.
Q. How did you handle rejection and criticism in the early days of your career, and what advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are struggling with these issues?
When it comes to handling rejection and criticism, I strongly believe that whatever is meant for you will come your way eventually. I never paid attention to critics or engaged in negative behavior towards them. Instead, I focused on improving myself, my music, and my talents to gain appreciation from my audience. For aspiring musicians who are struggling with these issues, my advice would be to stay true to yourself and not let the negativity of others affect you.
Q. Can you tell us about a turning point in your career when you knew that you had made it as a musician?
As for a turning point in my career, I’ve never really thought that I’ve “made it.” I believe that there is always room for improvement and that it’s important to challenge oneself constantly to grow and improve as a person and musician.
Q. Can you share a particularly memorable experience from one of your live performances or tours?
There are many incidents that I remember, but one that comes to mind happened during a recent gig in New Jersey. While performing, there wasn’t enough light, causing me to fall off the stage and leaving me with a scar. It took me about 5 seconds to realize I needed to go back on stage despite the injury, and thankfully the audience didn’t seem to notice. Later, I found out that I needed stitches. It’s not always easy being a star, despite what some may believe. People often think it’s a glamorous life, but it can be quite taxing.
Q. What do you consider to be your biggest achievement so far in your music career, and what are you most proud of?
My biggest achievement is the 99 names of Allah. My entire career pales in comparison to being able to share these names and reach such a diverse audience. The impact it has had is simply mind-boggling.
Q. You are known for your charitable work, including your support for the Shaukat Khanum Memorial Cancer Hospital. What motivates you to give back to the community, and how do you balance your music career with your philanthropic efforts?
It can be difficult to balance my music career with my philanthropic efforts, especially since some people in the industry may view charity as a form of showing off. However, I strongly believe in giving back and often choose to keep my charitable work hidden. Ultimately, I just love making people happy, whether that’s through giving money, and time, or simply having a conversation with someone.
Q. You have inspired many people with your music and your journey. What message do you have for your fans and followers who look up to you as a role model, and what advice would you give to aspiring musicians and artists who are just starting out?
I would advise fans and followers not to look up to me as a role model because I believe personal life should be kept private. However, in terms of my work, I encourage aspiring musicians and artists to work hard, follow their dreams, and continue to learn and grow in their craft. As long as they’re not hurting anyone and are respectful to their parents and have faith, they’ll be just fine.
Q. What advice would you give to your younger self if you could go back in time to the beginning of your career?
I wouldn’t change anything because I believe everything happens for a reason, and my journey has helped me learn and grow as an artist. So, my advice to my younger self would be to continue living the same life and trusting in the path that I was meant to take.
Q. Finally, what message do you have for the readers of Magzoid Magazine?
Thank you for having me, and please continue to listen to my music and watch my series. Thank you for appreciating my serial Sang-e-Mah. Your support means everything to me, and I appreciate you for taking the time to read this interview.