Pakistani singer Atif Aslam has opened up about his unexpected rise to fame, the pressures of success and whether he has ever considered walking away from music, reports Samaa.
Speaking to Indian YouTube channel The Curly Tales, Atif reflected on his career and admitted that he still does not fully understand how he achieved such widespread popularity.
“I was clueless. I had no idea about how I got successful. I have no idea till date what has happened,” he said.
The singer recalled the uncertainty that followed each new release, saying he would often wonder what would come next.
“After one song, you are like, okay, what next? And after the second, you think, this is it, people don’t like me,” he said.
Atif said the pressure grew as his popularity increased, particularly after the release of his album. His work in Bollywood also played a significant role in expanding his career and international recognition.
Reflecting on the reasons behind his success, Atif rejected the idea that his stardom was simply the result of hard work.
“A lot of people attribute it to hard work, but there was no hard work. Allah takes you where He wants you to be,” he said.
The singer said he considers success and stardom to be largely beyond an artist’s control.
Atif also addressed whether he could eventually walk away from music, saying he has never seriously thought about quitting.
“I have never thought of leaving or quitting music,” he said.
However, he acknowledged that artists can experience periods when they struggle creatively.
According to Atif, creative blocks are a natural part of an artist’s journey. There are times when musicians may feel empty and unable to write or create new material.
“You have to go through a certain phase and era as an artist where you experience a creative block,” he said.
He added that such periods eventually pass and artists can rediscover their creativity.
“There comes a time when you see the glass is full. You just sit quietly, thank Allah, and enjoy it,” Atif said.
Atif continues to perform for audiences in Pakistan and abroad, maintaining a career that has established him as one of the most recognisable voices in Pakistani music.
