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.”

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.

‘Fame and money are a trap’

Reflecting on success, Aslam described fame and wealth as distractions that can distance artists from their purpose.

“It is a trap. 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. Here I am, after 18 years, releasing an album.”

Explaining the title Subah Aye Na, Aslam said the album ultimately encourages listeners to place their trust in God and believe that a new dawn will eventually arrive.

On AI and creativity

Speaking about artificial intelligence, Aslam argued that technology could never replace human creativity.

“Technology will always need the first push, the direction, from the artist,” he said. “It can never think on your behalf.”

He added that the album stays true to the musical identity that first established his career.

“You cannot compare a film song to a pop album. It is entirely different,” he said. “Every song explores a different subject, and I am very proud of it.”

‘Success is not the accolades’

Asked what success means to him, Aslam said it is measured not by awards but by the ability to touch people’s lives. “It is a blessing if you can bring a smile to someone’s face and be a part of their lives, even if only for a moment.”

“Success is not the accolades that you get or the Oscars you look for,” he continued. “Real success lies where people can understand you, lift themselves out of their lowest moments and help each other.”

He added that true success comes from living in alignment with one’s values. “If you are on the right track, if you are not hurting anyone, and you are fulfilling your promise to the Almighty, then you are successful.”

Despite the scale of his career, Aslam said he believes personal integrity matters more than commercial milestones.

“I don’t think anyone has seen the kind of numbers in Pakistan that I have seen. Yet you need to do something else to feel successful, and that is to be in complete alignment with yourself and your conscience.”

The singer also credited his wife with keeping him grounded. “She will not hesitate to tell me when something is not working or when it has not met the benchmark.”

Cricket before music

Aslam also revealed that cricket, rather than music, was his first passion. “I wanted to be a fast bowler. I got selected for the under-19 cricket team, but my parents wanted me to study.”

He said he only discovered his singing ability 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.”

Reflecting on the difference between his albums and film songs, Aslam said his solo work is far more personal.

“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 also expressed gratitude to his Indian fans, recalling how his music first crossed 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, referring to ongoing restrictions, while expressing appreciation for fans who continue to seek out his music despite the circumstances.

Subah Aye Na, Aslam’s fourth studio album featuring eight tracks, is scheduled for release on July 31.