Atif Aslam - Talks about getting some 'me-time' next year

For someone who can get all the attention he likes with his raspy voice, drop-dead good looks and quick wit, it's surprising that Atif Aslam keeps such a low profile. And, he intends to keep it that way. Gearing up to judge a reality show (though till now he hasn't held reality TV in very high regard), Atif tells CS why he likes to stay low-key, literally

Who: Atif Aslam

What: Talks about getting some 'me-time' next year

Where: At a five-star hotel



Moolah matters not There's just so much happening in my life that I don't want to add to my problems by discussing things in public. I want to be able to give my time to my mom and dad, my family and friends. I might get a million roles and songs to do a few years from now, but I won't get this time with my loved ones again. That doesn't mean that I don't like money. I want it all, but I'm not in a rush to get it.



Winning fans Like every one else, I also enjoy the attention that I get from my fans. If they respect your talent, it's great, but I don't like it when they go overboard. I remember, there was a time when I was performing in Australia when a female fan took off her top in front of me. That felt very odd. Then once on my birthday, a group of girls came to my house and asked for me. And they were only in their underwear. That's not the kind of attention that I appreciate. But yes, I also have fans doing nice things for me that are respectful and mean a lot. I don't consider myself as an icon. I'm not here to win the world, I'm just here to win myself.



Future fix Life's been good to me so far. As I look back, this year has truly been special. It brought many surprises -- my debut film Bol happened, I got to perform with Guns N' Roses, became friends with the bandmates, toured odd places like Surinam, Trinidad, Bali and China. Other than that, I was able to identify a lot of 'distractions' in my life that I needed to get rid of. And I did. So yes, it's been a very goal-oriented year for me and I'm really looking forward to 2012 too. I don't plan the future, but I would love to go back to places like Japan and Australia and walk on the Bondi Beach. And next year, I also hope to attend a few concerts like a normal guy and enjoy myself.

Oh yes, and I also need to buy myself a new machine.



SOURCE = http://www.mid-day.com/entertainment/2011/dec/291211-Atif-needs-me-time.htm

Atif Aslam Latest Song - Tu Mohabbat Hai - TERE NAAL LOVE HO GYA

Check out the latest second track of Atif Aslam - Tu Mohabbat Hai - TERE NAAL LOVE HO GYA

Atif Aslam - "aao duniya ko btayain k hum kitney meethey or sureelay hain"

"Is program (Sur Kshetra) ko kerney ka maqsad dosti & art ko promote karna to hae lekin asal wajah yeh hae k main (Atif) pakistani talent ko aik baray platform tk pohnchanay mai unke madad karna chahta hoon .. Is lye meri yehi koshish hai k aise logon ko samney le k aoun jin k pass talent bhi hai or woh apney mulk k lye kuch karna bhi chahtey hain .. To aao duniya ko btayain k hum kitney meethey or sureelay hain" - Atif Aslam

Atif Aslam Coming Soon on Sahara One

Last year, Atif Aslam entered the world of acting with the super successful & critically acclaimed project “BOL”. In early 2012, Atif Aslam will make his debut on TV by judging a musical talent show for the channel “Sahara One”. The show is called “Sur Kshetra” and it will feature contestants from both countries, Pakistan & India. Atif Aslam will mentor the talent from Pakistan while Himesh Reshammiya will mentor the Indian talent. The aim of the show is to promote new voices from both countries and provide a platform for cultural exchange. Aadeez, get ready to watch Atif Aslam every week on TV. Support the show, support the talent & make sure that you tune in every week to support our very own superstar, Atif Aslam!

Atif Aslam New Song from "Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya" song "Tu Mohabbat Hai Coming Soon

Just to update all the Aadeez, the second track by Atif Aslam in the movie "Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya" is called "Tu Mohabbat Hai". It has been sung by three singers. Atif Aslam, Monali Thakur & Priya Panchal ... Tips has just released the "song making" video of the track. Keep visiting the official page for further updates about the track! Keep supporting Atif Aslam!

Atif Aslam Latest Pics at 4Oth UAE National Day Concert

Check out the Latest Exclusive of Atif Aslam at 4Oth UAE National Day Concert

Atif Aslam now as judge in Indian Reality TV Show

Atif Aslam will be visiting Mumbai soon. This is not because he is going to record his next song there, but this time he is honored and included in the jury of an upcoming Indian reality TV show. The venture for this show will be launched in starting months of the next year.

Boney Kapoor is part of the channel and according to a source; it has been revealed that they chose Atif to get more audience. Obviously Atif has fans around the globe and making him a jury member will work effectively to grab more eyeballs. The source further added that everything is ready to launch the show and they are just waiting for Atif’s arrival. Atif too is finding it a great chance to interact with his Indian fans.

We wish Atif best of luck for his upcoming venture and hope he won’t act there just like other judges of reality TV shows. Indeed we would love to see him in his natural look and casual style, for which he is famous among his fans worldwide. Good Luck !

A Moment with Atif Aslam

A moment with Atif Aslam





1 December 2011, 7:47 PM



Ahead of his huge National Day concert in Abu Dhabi, Pakistani superstar Atif Aslam reveals his inspirations



When did you decide to hold a concert in Abu Dhabi together with Indian rockers Euphoria?

Abu Dhabi Cricket Club approched me to have this event on UAE National Day, so I thought it’ll be interesting to do a big show at the Zayed Cricket Stadium.





What set list are you preparing for this concert?

Well, I’ll try to do the numbers which will represent the emotions of people of Pakistan and India to celebrate UAE National Day.



The Zayed Cricket Stadium is a unique venue. What kind of concert arenas do you like best?

Indoor venues are always nice, as acoustics are more controlled and energy is at a higher level. I really loved performing at the Royal Albert Hall in London.



What does performing on the stage mean to you today?

Music is all about expressing yourself, your inner feelings after being inspired by the environment around you. Performing onstage means a lot to me. It gives you a real high - like the sense of flying - when you see thousands of people moving.



What inspires you and your music?

Everything happening around me is my inspiration.



Of all your songs, which one is your personal favourite?

Yakeen and Jalpari.



What are your future projects?

I will be doing some more songs for Bollywood movies and have some tours planned as well.



EVENT DETAILS

Gates open at 5pm, with Euphoria onstage at 7pm and Atif Aslam at 9pm. Tickets are available online at www.timeouttickets.com, or in person at outlets including select Lulu and Malik Exchanges in Abu Dhabi, Zayed Cricket Stadium, or the Sindh Punjab Restaurant in Bur Dubai and Karama.

Ticket prices range from Dhs5 to Dhs250. For further information, log on to www.adcricketclub.ae.

Atif Aslam Images live in Surat India

Check out some latest Atif Aslam pics live in Surat India

Atif Aslam MERI KAHANI MERI ZUBANI

‘Meri Kahani, Meri Zubani’

Nijansh Kothari and Shagufta Khan, Youth Connect.

He is the man who sets a million hearts soaring with his magical voice. Youth Connect brings you an exclusive conversation with the Prince Extraordinaire of Pop Rock and his Band. Here is Atif Aslam Unplugged.

Unlike his onstage persona, offstage Atif Aslam is soft, somewhat reticent and talks with a lazy drawl. Dressed in denims and a gray tee, looking relaxed, yet every bit a star, he settles down for a Tête-à-tête with the Youth Connect Team. He introduces us to his Band members- Sarmad Abdul Ghafoor and Asad Ul Hafiz on the Guitar, Sameer Rasheed, the Base Guitarist, and Salman Rafique on the drums. It’s a lively bunch of guys, who couldn’t wait to create magic in aapnu Amdavad!

Your website and fan pages are named Aadeez. Is it your pseudonym?
Atif- Aadeez, basically is a name that my fans have given me, in fact they call themselves aadeez. That is how they connect with other fans, by asking each other “are you an aadee”? So it becomes easy for them to make a gang of all aadeez and attend gigs. It’s not just a fan page. It’s like a family of fans.

How did you guys meet? How was this band formed?

Sameer- Ah!, Jab we met! (Grins) That question should be answered by Atif. He certainly has a very good memory.

Atif- Yeah right! (Looks at Sameer for help!)

Sameer- It was in 2003 December when I met you. It was love at first sight!

Atif- (Guffaws) So I met him in 2003 December and we started playing together. One of my friends then introduced me to Sarmad, and we went on to record my first album which took about 5 days. It’s called ‘Jalpari’. And they did a great job, though at that point of time, we didn’t have a proper band, we weren’t professional musicians, main bhi seekh raha tha aur ye bhi seekh raha tha, (pointing at Sameer). Then Mobeen Shah joined us.

Salman- I joined the band in 2005 and Asad in 2008. I am here to fill in for Mobeen, who unfortunately couldn’t make it to the trip because of visa issues.


How difficult is it working in a band? Do you have differences of opinion?

Salman- its difficult if you have a band where there is no leader, it’s a problem because you don’t know who is heading the band. Among us, Atif is the leader. If all the band members have different musical directions, then it becomes difficult. But if you exactly agree on what you want to do with a particular project then it’s really easy.

And if you do have disagreements, how do you solve them?

Salman- we like to agree to disagree!

Sameer-oh we fight to the death! But only till Atif enters the room!


How was your experience working with American Hard Rock Band Guns N’ Roses and Lanny Cordola?

Atif-It was great actually. Sarmad introduced me to his friend Mr. Todd Shea, and he was looking for me somehow. So that’s how I met Mr. Lanny Cordola. We have been working together for the past 2 years now. And this time around when we were touring US, it just all came together. Khud se hi sab hogaya. (Smiles) I am so glad and thankful to Slash (Saul Hudson, former lead Guitarist of Guns N’ Roses.) and Matt (Matthew William Sorum, former band member of Guns N’ Roses) and especially Lanny Cordola who made it all happen. It’s a great feeling and a great achievement playing with the legends at the Best Buy Theatre in New York.

There have been constant rumors circulating about your health and wellbeing.
How do you deal with them? Does it bother you?

Atif- Yes I have heard the rumors. I am perfectly fine. There is nothing of that sort.

Sameer – (straight- faced) He did have the flu a couple of months ago!

Sarmad (dead pan)- How could you forget the pimple on his forehead!?

Atif (chuckles)- Of course it bothers me, the pimple I mean! On a serious note, not really. I have a very settled life that I have to live. Sometimes it gets too much, the attention. It bothers me when I am out with my family, and people disturb us. But still, a lot of youngsters wanna be in my shoes. They wanna be right there on the stage performing like me, so all by the grace of God I think I am blessed in such a way that I really thank Him for it.



Have you sampled any local delicacies?

All (enthusiastically)- We would love to!

Sameer- I wanna have the Gujarati puri!

Atif- I learnt some Gujarati! Hu tamna prem karu chu! (Beams)!

(All imitate Atif in very cute accents!)

Atif- I wanna talk to the people of Ahmedabad in Gujarati! How do I say mujhe dkokla khana hai?

Atif- (Learns and repeats) mare dhoklu khava che! People are going to love me for this I am told!

Sameer- aree mujhe asal main khane hain!

Atif (Grins)- khiladunga!

Rapid Fire with Atif.

Favorite Food- Ahmmm anything cooked by my mum yaar!

Three things you don’t leave home without?- Definitely my mobile phone, cologne , and gaadi yaar! Gaadi ke bagair kaise jaunga bahar!

Biggest strength- My faith.

Biggest weakness- Umm I am not sure.

(The Band answers for him. Sameer cheekily suggests it’s his ankle! Sarmad smiles and tells us “dil ke bade achhe hain, probably that’s his weakness.”

Money or Fame- Neither. Music man, just music!

That brought us to the end of our lively and interesting conversation. That was International singing sensation Atif Aslam for you! He left us as enthralled off stage, as he does onstage!

AN EVENING WITH ATIF ASLAM on 18-11-2011

Check out some latest images of atif aslam of AN EVENING WITH ATIF ASLAM on 18-11-2011

Atif Aslam Video Stills of Atif Aslam - Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya

Check out Latest Pics of Atif Aslam has been featured in two promotional videos for the movie "Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya". The first video is for the song "Piya O Re Piya", a duet with Shreya Ghosal. The second video is for the song "Tu Mohabbat Hai". Here are some exclusive stills from both video shoots along with the source. Check it out Aadeez!

Atif Aslam tells ABOUT Love, Life and Music

Atif Aslam tells t2 ABOUT love, life and music. plus, how THE girls went crazy at the pakistani POP MAN’S sunday concert
ATIF ASLAM in concert

His next solo album will be out next year. Till then, here’s Atif Aslam unplugged for you.

You checked in at 10pm at Hyatt Regency on Friday and at 10.45pm you headed for Rockstar at Cinemax, Mani Square. How much could you, the real-life rockstar, relate to the film?

I remember Ranbir (Kapoor) telling someone on screen that the film is somehow related to Atif (me). The costume, guitar, energy… even the place where they shot one of the songs was where I shot Doorie. But I was expecting the life of a rockstar and not that of an ordinary person and his romantic pain… .



Do you remember your first ever performance?

I was 16 when my friends took me to a fair and someone was playing on stage. We had a challenge about the bravest going on stage and singing. They told me, ‘No, you can’t go, you’re a sissy.’ So, I went on stage and sang, Pehla nasha pehla khumaar… when I got off the stage, my friends were like, ‘wow’.


And your first performance for a fee?
I started taking part in college competitions… my first ever performance with a band was in McDonald’s and I got Rs 500. I still have the note.


You wanted to be a fast bowler. Did your family encourage the cricketer in you?

Never. They wanted me to become a doctor. Instead I became a computer engineer and I sucked at it! When I started singing, I didn’t tell them... they heard about it from friends!
t2 took Atif to the Victoria Memorial on Saturday. Picture by Anindya Shankar Ray


When you broke away from Jal in 2003, you said, “The best thing to have happened to me is the break-up of the band”. Why?

The reason was, I made the band, I came up with the name, the thought behind it being: music that soothes you. And I was looking for a musician and I found that guy (Goher Mumtaz)... I shared my thoughts and compositions. We recorded one song called Aadat, which went on to become a big hit. And one fine day he said, ‘I want to be the frontman’. In a band, there’s only one frontman.

The other thing was my brother (Shahbaz) was managing our band at that time and his (Goher’s) brother also wanted to manage. So, it was all getting too complicated….



What made you do commercial music?

I wanted to try everything. I learnt a lot from playback singing. But at heart, I’m a pop rock singer, I’m a stage performer. Jaise bandh kar detey hain kissi ko studio mein, aawaz bhi bandh kar detey hain… .



Then why did you do Woh Lamhe?

I wanted to explore. So I tried it and it became a huge success. That song even inspired Himesh Reshammiya to sing, he said on Karan’s (Johar) show!


Your second album Doorie was a superhit but was that an Atif who just wanted to sell records in the belief that creating a fan base would then give him a chance to do the music he really wanted to?

Well, a singer explores himself every day and given the music scene is so bad, you have to try everything. Doorie was the kind of music where I fit into India, while Meri Kahani or Aadat is where I fit into Pakistan. So, that’s how I balance both. But I personally prefer my kind of music, which is Aadat.



Did you come into your own with Coke Studio Pakistan?

To be honest, the idea of Coke Studio is what I do on stage — impromptu stuff which always gives me a kick. Coke Studio is a platform for experimentation, it’s fresh and unexplored… the surprise element was people also liked Wasta and Mai Ni.



In September, you performed with the legendary Slash, Sean Lennon, Matt Sorum, Gilby
Clarke and Lanny Cordola, in New York. What was the experience like?

They heard I was in New York and said, ‘Let’s catch up’. At the rehearsal, they said, we always do the song Wish You Were Here by Pink Floyd. I said, ‘I’ve never heard the song but let’s do it!’ Suna aur bajaaya. Slash was initially not impressed with my singing but right towards the end of the song when I was doing my alaaps, he said, ‘You’re really good, join us on stage’.

Performing with these legends was a completely different experience. In the audience, there weren’t any Pakistanis or Indians… only goras. So that was my real test of nerves and being an artiste. Reeve Carney (American songwriter-actor) came up to me backstage and said, ‘If you can teach me some of the stuff you’ve done on stage’....


Having travelled to so many countries, where do you feel the maximum crowd adulation?

It’s more or less the same everywhere. It’s all about your time period. If you’re at the top, people worship you wherever you go. But when you’re dying down, it’s difficult to sell tickets!



So, where do you think you stand now?

I have no idea. I have seniors like Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Shankar-Ehsaan-Loy, Sonu Niigaam… I think I have my own place, my own kind of music…



Finally, how much of the real you is expressed through your music?

In commercial music, not at all. But the whole of Aadat and Meri Kahani is about myself. I meet people and write songs about them. Joug (from Aadat) was about a drug addict, a friend’s friend who I met. When I heard his story, I wanted to talk to him… I met him a couple of times and started writing about him. He didn’t know that. He still doesn’t know. But I could relate to him. When I make music, I feel I don’t belong to this world. I’m in a different space.
WHY ATIF LIKES TO KEEP HIS LOVE LIFE PRIVATE

Would you like to begin with the easy or the tough questions?

It’s all good…anything…


We know very little about your love life…

Oh, the personal stuff! Well, I would suggest not getting into that…

Exactly our point. You’ve always kept a very low profile about love.


Do you feel your fan following will be hit if girls know you’re dating someone?

No, nothing like that. I believe there are things that are very personal. Like when I’m reading namaaz, and people ask me, ‘Do you pray five times a day?’ But I would say, ‘That’s my personal thing.’ It is, you know, if I like somebody, that is very personal... I won’t like to share it… I’m a private person…

Most girls want to know the answer to the question: Are you single? Yes, no, or you don’t want to say…

Does that make a difference to people? A lot of people have been discussing, ‘Is he single or not?’ ‘Is he engaged or not?’ But I want to know why is it so important?


Well, you’re a star and a star’s life is always of interest to fans…

Ya I know… but when I get married people will get to know. I would tell them, I mean, it’s gonna be everywhere.


So, you’re not answering the question…

I don’t know.... I wouldn’t want people to find out… (pauses).

So, that was the tough section of the interview? (Grins.)

FAST 15

The craziest thing a fan has done:

It was my birthday and there were six-seven chicks in a car outside. When I went outside, they were like, ‘Hey Atif!’ and they threw a box at me. It was full of Jockey underwear!

Did you keep the gift?

Well, I did. But I threw away their undergarments which were also in the box!

There was a rumour in 2009 that you had throat cancer. What’s the next most bizarre rumour you’ve heard about yourself: I bought Aadat (album) for Rs 6 lakh.

Your dream band would have: John Mayer, Chris Martin and Chris Cornell.

Your most messed-up concert: In Karachi when people broke barriers and came after us, I escaped in a boat in the middle of the night with six guards.

Where do you keep the Tamgha-i-Imtiaz, the fourth-highest decoration given to a Pakistani civilian based on their achievement: It’s still on my sherwani.

One thing you’d like to buy and the one place you’d want to visit in Calcutta: A sari for my mom and the dargah in Kidderpore.

The song you grew up listening to: The whole album by Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Michael Brook.

The song you least expected to become a hit: Jal pari.

Songs whose picturisation embarrassed you: Hum kis galli and songs featuring Emraan Hashmi!

Which actor, if any, has called you personally to thank you for making him sound good on screen: On screen, Ranbir thanked me for Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani… and I met Vivek (Oberoi) the other day and he thanked me for mere khuda (Prince) because he’s getting a lot of shows for that…

Three friends in the Indian music industry: Nobody.

The best feature on your face is: My evil smile.

Your signature rockstar move on stage is: The backward bend.

Something you’d like to say to your fans: I don’t have a personal Facebook or Twitter account. The official one is Aadeez.


Off stage, Atif is soft, somewhat restrained and talks with a lazy drawl. On stage, he transforms into a completely different person. Confident, vigorous and in charge, a hungry Atif thrives on the crowd’s energy. He yields to the frenzy of his fans. His pitch rises with every shriek and with every waving hand. He is the real-life rockstar. Or pop star.

Spinning his brand of magic, Atif Aslam took the stage at Calcutta Boating Complex on the EM Bypass at 8.30pm on Sunday. Titled the EMTA Atif Aslam Live in Concert, presented by Calcutta Boating & Hotel Resorts, in association with t2 (organised by Narkesh Events & Promotions and managed by Mirage), the show doubled as the inauguration of a “unique” wedding destination at the Boating Complex, designed by RK Weddings.

A 2,000-strong crowd waited 90 minutes before the rockstar walked in at 8.30pm. His opening track? Woh lamhe. Fireworks lit up the sky as the audience — mostly girls and ladies of all ages — SCREAMED. And when his husky voice took the shape of Doorie, the audience in the last few rows felt it the most as they reached out as if to make up for the distance! Even front-row seaters gave up their coveted seats for an even closer glimpse of his signature backward bend — the plugs of his guitar pointed towards the dark November sky.

“What do you want to hear?” asked Atif. Tera hone laga hoon… chorused a giant section. And almost on cue, the beats of the Ajab Prem Ki Ghazab Kahani love anthem filled the air. The show went on as the women surrendered to the soft strains of Main ek fard hoon, Maahi ve, Tum hi ho, Aadat and more. In between, the rockstar galloped across the stage, looping the mic’s wire around his fingers with skill that only comes with doing it over and over again.

His X-factor? “The fact that I interact with my fans,” he had said. So Atif dramatically tilted the mic towards the audience to complete the lyrics and even dedicated jaane jaan to a front-row fan, as he strummed along.

“For me, the best moment of the show was when he went quiet on stage and then suddenly he said, ‘Baby I love you’. He went on to sing Pehli nazar mein... ! I also liked that he tried to interact with us fans,” said Zora Rahman, 23, soon after her rockstar had wrapped up the 90-minute show with “Thank you Calcutta!”
Karo Christine Kumar
Pictures by Anindya Shankar Ray
Would you like to date Atif? Which is your favourite Atif song? Were you at the concert? How would you rate Atif the stage performer on a scale of 10? Tell t2@abp.in


Edited by CON. - Today at 9:01 AM

Atif Aslam HQ Pics INDIAN TOUR - Kolkata

Check out Atif Aslam High Quality images INDIAN TOUR - Kolkata

Atif Aslam - sub ko meri aur meri family ki taraf sey Eid Mubarak

Salam to all the Aadeez, ap sub ko meri aur meri family ki taraf sey Eid Mubarak. Ap log time nikal k official forum aur facebook page ko visit kartey hain, thank u so much for that. I love each & every one of u. Remember me & my family in ur prayers on this happy occasion. I have been slightly busy but I always try to read ur msgs and comments here and on the official forum. I m excited about the upcoming Indian tour, looking forward to it. Meri taraf sey ap sub ko best wishes & a lot of love! - Atif Aslam -

Atif Aslam New Song from Movie Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya

Check out the latest new track of atif aslam with shreya ghoshal from movie Tere Naal Love Ho Gaya

Atif Aslam Special Messages to 3 million Family

An exclusive performance by Atif Aslam, dedicated to all the Aadeez!!! A special msg for all the Facebook fans!!! With love, directly from Atif Aslam!!! Chack out Here - LINK

Atif Aslam Superfan - Muskan Mumtaz

Meet Muzkan Mumtaz, Atif Aslam Superfan



Since we launched Best New Bands 2011, we’ve been blown away from the outpouring of support from the finalists’ fans. Whether it’s incessant voting, or hitting up Facebook, Twitter, Tumblr and fan forums to spread the gospel–we’ve encountered some fanatic artist devotees. We call them Superfans.

MTV Desi, Iggy’s sister site discovered Atif Aslam’s most passionate Aadeez (that’s what Atif Superfans call themselves) after a page-long Facebook comment professing her love for the Pakistani rock star. Meet Muskan Mumtaz, a high-school senior in the middle of applying for colleges. In between personal essays, Muskan visits the site to vote for Atif. She believes that Atif’s global fanbase can earn him the title of Best New Artist. How does she think Aadeezes can be mobilized? Muskan’s calling on every Desi to shake their family tree (yes, even the strange cousins) and get them voting for Atif!

Wanna learn what else goes on in the mind of an Aadeez? (Hint: Eight burly security guards and Lady Gaga are involved.) Read on.

Tell us a bit about yourself. Where are you from? What do you do? Hi :) My name is Muskan Mumtaz, I was born in Srinagar, Kashmir and I live in Washington, D.C! I’m currently a senior in high school.

Do you remember/can you describe the first time you heard Atif Aslam sing? I was first exposed to Atif’s music about seven years ago, when he released “Who Lamhein” in Mahesh Bhat’s film “Zeher.” I was completely mesmerized by his voice.

How many Atif Aslam concerts have you been to? Unfortunately I’ve only been able to attend his 2010 Spring concert in D.C. I was out of town when he performed here this past summer. Upsetting, I know.

You mentioned that you prefer his non-film songs. Which one is your favorite and why? Choosing one would be impossible! Here are my top faves:

1. “Kaun Tha” – This is so soothing. It’s so different from the rest of his songs in the sense that it’s very soft, and it has no underlying rock music.

2. “Mann Hota Hai” – First of all (and most importantly), he says my name towards the end of the song so that automatically puts it on my favorites list. Other than that, this is the perfect winter song to get depressed to. The lyrics are so beautifully hopeless, and his ability to adapt his voice to sound like he’s almost dying makes the song so believable.

3. “Rabba Sacheya” – In my opinion, this is Atif’s best rock song. I also love its religious theme, and I think it serves as the perfect comparison of Atif’s non-commercial and commercial songs. How often do you here rock songs about Islamic redemption? Exactly.

4. “Jal Pari” – No explanation necessary. This song, especially the Coke Studio version, is simply amazing.

5. “Ehsaas” – Atif’s rock live version of this song is really edgy.

6. “Hum Kis Gali” and “Meri Kahani” – His best summery breezy songs. Perfect to sing along to with all the windows open!

What is the craziest thing that you have done as a die-hard Atif Aslam fan? I’ve tackled eight burly security guards just to make eye contact with him. It was worth every bruise.

Where do you get news about him? I visit his website aadez.com, and I check his official facebook page.

Do you follow other Pakistani or South Asian musicians? Who are your other favorites? I do! I love listening to Bilal Khan, Kailash Kher, Rahat Fateh Ali Khan, Lomaticc, Raghav, Uzair Jaswal, Saim Bhat, etc.

If you could pick someone to sing a duet with Atif, who would it be? What song would they sing? Lady Gaga! I think that together they could create something really interesting and unique.

You are going to get a tattoo of an Atif Aslam lyric on your body. Pick a line from one of his songs that means the most to you. Tell us why. “Kuch bhi jo accha lage / Aur milay bhi / Zaroori to nahi / Sach hai per / hai Ajeeb” Rough translation: “You don’t get everything you wish for. It is strange, but this is the strange reality of life.” I love this line. I think it would be perfect for a tattoo because it could serve as a constant reminder that life can be unfair, and that we just have to accept its unfairness.

Why do you think that Atif Aslam has the potential to be voted MTV Iggy’s Best New Artist 2011? Atif has a huge fan base all over the world! I’m worried that the other contestants’ fan bases might be more tech-savvy though. We have to reach out to all the Desis to win this thing.

Does Atif Aslam represent this generation of Desi musicians? If yes, why? Definitely; and more specifically, Atif represents a generation of Pakistani musicians. In many ways Atif’s success demonstrates how Pakistan has some serious artistic potential. I think that its so important for the people to invest in creating a larger and more diverse music industry so that successful artist don’t have to turn to Mumbai for work.

What is the best way to get people to vote for Atif? Why should the world care? Facebook spamming. First: everyone needs to unblock all their aunties, uncles, and strange cousins. Second: we all need to spam the inboxes of every fob we’ve ever interacted with with links to the competition URL.

Are you excited to SEE Atif Aslam in Bollywood films or should he stick to singing? I’m super excited! Sure Bollwood has its Himesh Reshammiyas, but it has its Farhan Akhters too! I think it all depends on the director, the co-stars, and the type of role Atif would be playing.

If you could meet Atif in person, what would you ask him? “Where do you get your inspiration from?” and, of course, “Will you marry me?”

By Rohan Sheth October 26, 2011

Atif Aslam Moments from the sound check and backstage

Atif Aslam Moments from the sound check and backstage Video
Moments from the sound check and backstage ... The concert was held at the Aviation Club (Tennis Stadium) in Dubai on 13th October, 2011 ... An exclusive HD video for all the Aadeez, enjoy!!! Here...LINK

Atif Aslam pics at DXB Concert on 13-10-2011

Check out latest images of Atif Aslam at DXB Concert on 13-10-2011

Atif Aslam Exclusive video message to 3 million fans

Atif Aslam Exclusive video message to 3 million fans





Exclusive video message recorded by Atif Aslam himself live on stage in Dubai! A shout out to every single Facebook fan & all the Aadeez around the globe!!! The message was recorded on 13th October, 2011, one day after the milestone was achieved!!! Enjoy Aadeez!!! Check it out here

Calling All Aadeez! Are You Atif Aslam’s Biggest Fan?

As we’ve mentioned previously, Atif Aslam is a finalist for MTV Iggy’s Best Band in the World program. He’s one of just 10 artists chosen, among bands from the US to Venezuela to Malaysia. Readers and fans decide who will be ultimately crowned the Best Band in the World, however, and the Aadeez are passionately showing their devoting by voting for the Pakistani rockstar.

So — among all the Atif Aslam fans out there, who’s the most devoted? MTV Iggy wants to know and is interested in interviewing that person. Tell us why you’re the biggest Atif Aslam fan in the comments below and let us know how to contact you. Did you start a website to honor him? Do you have his name tattooed somewhere on you? Have you attended every concert or organized voting parties for him? One or two reasons will be enough, but remember — they’ll have to be impressive. It takes a lot to be called Atif’s biggest fan here is the LINK

Atif Aslam Images at Muscat Concert - 6th October, 2011

Check out some latest pics of Atif Aslam Images at Muscat Concert - 6th October, 2011

Atif Aslam - Lad from Lahore!

Lad from Lahore!

Boyish good looks and a soulful voice that makes every girl go a little weak in the knees…The voice behind heart-tugging numbers like Tere Bin and Woh Lamhe…Atif Aslam, as you already know, performed last night to a packed audience at the City Amphitheatre.


Walking towards the poolside at Muscat Holiday, he revealed that he’d taken two flights, from Lahore, to be in Muscat on time for his show. And then, we got out eleven things you did not know about Atif…


Talent

I rate myself about -5 as a singer. I am not trained but I do practice regularly now.


Idol

I don’t have a role model as such but I grew up listening to Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and it is my dearest wish to have collaborated with him


Charm

I feel really blessed when I see the girls go crazy at my concerts but I feel humbled when the guys do it because then I know it’s my music, not my looks, that matters.


Love

I’d rather not say if I am in a relationship or not. I’d much rather keep my fans guessing and cultivate the mystery around me.


Brands

I am not a brand conscious guy. I buy whatever looks good on me. My style is rough and comfortable and I wear whatever fits that look.

India

When I perform in concerts in the US, I find Indians and Pakistanis turning up in equal numbers to just enjoy my music, that seems simply touching.


Acting

If a good script like Bol comes along, yeah, sure, I’ll do it. But singing will always come first.

Fitness

I am into weight training now but the regular flights don’t make it easy on my schedule. Yeah, I like to stay fit.


Muscat

On my last visit, I had seen the Grand Mosque. I hope I can see some more of Muscat this time. But I am looking forward to eating some great Arabic food.


Fiasco

There have been so many messed-up concerts. There was this time in Karachi when people broke barriers and came after us and we escaped in a boat, only to be followed.


Zapped

Once, after a concert, someone came up and asked me what my name was!

Sandhya Menon
Sat Oct 08 2011 09:45:49 GMT+0400 (Arabian Standard Time) Oman Time

Atif Aslam - Exploring New Dimensions

Atif Aslam - Exploring New Dimensions

Since the release of Aadat, Atif Aslam has gone on to become a well known name in the sub-continent. His albums – Jal Pari (2004), Doorie (2006), and Meri Kahani (2008) – have met with success, his vocals have been heard in films, and he has even been awarded theTamgha-e-Imtiaz for his contributions to music. The 28-year-old artist has now made his acting debut in the film Bol, which was released last month. We caught up with the singer/actor to talk about his latest ventures:


Bol
- Us: Could you please tell Us a bit about the movie Bol?

Atif Aslam: Bol - the movie - is a reflection of our society and its shades. The movie has emotions, drama, and a very strong and bold message for the audiences.

- Us: How did the Bol project come about? How did you get the role in the film?

Atif: Shoaib Mansoor approached me in 2009 and offered me this role of a doctor/singer in the movie. The role sounded interesting, and I signed on to do the movie after some formalities.


- Us: Is there a specific reason you chose to do this project?

Atif: The specific reason was that my singing career started from Pakistan, so I wanted to start my acting career from here as well. Also, the film was being directed by Shoaib Mansoor, so I considered it a safe debut.


- Us: This was your first experience as a film actor – how did it feel? Was it how you expected it to be? Did you face any difficulties?

Atif: Acting is more challenging than singing. We have to control our expressions and stretch our limits to a whole new level. I was having difficulties in the beginning as some of my colleagues in the movie said that my acting was still stiff, but Alhamdulillah it improved with time, and I was able to perform well enough to earn appreciation.


- Us: How was the experience of working with the director and your co-stars?

Atif: It was great, we had a blast! And Shoaib sahib is very artistic and very professional.


- Us: What did you feel when you were watching the final product?

Atif: Well, I was satisfied. Shoaib sahib knows his job really well. A few scenes were not included in the film which I understand the director didn’t consider adding.


- Us: How do you feel about the response the film has received so far?

Atif: The response has been tremendous. Alhamdulillah, the movie has broken all the box office records in the history of Pakistan, and I am glad to be a part of the movie which has done so well. In fact, it has been highly praised across the border, too. I came across some great reviews from their critics admiring Shoaib sahib’s vision and actors’ hard work. People are enjoying it. Some people think that my role is short in the movie, but I believe it’s the impact that matters, not the duration.


- Us: In your opinion, what makes Bol stand out?

Atif: Shoaib Mansoor, plus it is a great effort to revive the cinema culture and it will provoke thoughts of a lot of people.





*****
Acting

Us: How did you become interested in acting?

Atif: I think it is a part of being in the showbiz, and I believe in exploring new dimensions of my talents and personality.


Us: Do you wish to continue acting? And would you consider doing Bollywood movies? Are there any projects in the pipeline?


Atif: Yeah, InshAllah, I will continue it provided I get a good response from people for my movie Bol. If there is a right script and team, then I will definitely do movies no matter what place it is.


Us: Now that you’ve taken up acting, do you feel like there has been a shift in priority from music to acting? Or is music still your main focus?

Atif: Acting is not a priority so far. Music is, and it will continue as it is, InshAllah.


Us: What do you think about the current state of the Pakistani film industry? And what can be done to improve it?

Atif: I believe there is no Pakistani film industry, whatever is being done was done on a personal effort by Shoaib

Mansoor sahib. The government should make it a proper industry and announce competitions for the young filmmakers to establish it.


Us: Is there any director you would like to work with in the future? And any actor and actress?

Atif: No one in particular; [I would like to work with] anybody with a good idea and better approach towards work.

*****
Music

Us: What is it about being a musician that you enjoy the most? And what inspires you to make music?

Atif: My environment is my inspiration, and I take inspiration from everything around me – the people, the happenings,

travelling, etcetera. The best thing about being a musician is that you have a productive and fruitful outlet to express your feelings and fulfil your passions. And love of the people is a bonus that you get along the way!


Us: You were working on a project that was meant to be in collaboration with international musicians. How is that coming along?

Atif: Alhamdulillah, I am working on it. A lot of tracks are almost done, and I will release it at the appropriate time.


Us: What do you think of the current music landscape of the country?

Atif: I see the positive side of it and I believe that this is the only good thing happening to the nation nowadays. We should respect our artists more and promote them. God bless our nation!


Us: How soon can we expect another album from you? Is there anything you can tell Us about it? And are there any other upcoming music related projects?



Atif: I’m still working on the album. Many tracks are done, and I’ll release it at the appropriate time. I am not hurrying things up for me. Right now, let the people enjoy Bol.


*****
Life

Us: How do you define success?

Atif: Eternal fruitfulness in this life and hereafter.

Us: How has your life changed in the past decade? Do you feel like you’ve changed as a person?


Atif: Life has gone fast and productive. Patience has also increased as Allah has been very kind.


Us: How do you deal with rumours? Is there any rumour that you’ve found particularly hard to deal with?

Atif: Normally I don’t care about them, but if there is something serious we normally clear it on our website or Facebook.


Us: What is the one achievement so far that you’re most proud of?

Atif: Alhamdulillah the love and prayers of people are the biggest achievements.


Us: Is there anything you want to do that you haven’t done so far?

Atif: I would like to explore more dimensions of music internationally, plus I wish to be more beneficial to the people of Pakistan.


Us: Any message for the readers?

Atif: Don’t let your passions die for ordinary reasons and regret afterwards.



*****
Quick-fire

Us: Who was the last person you called? And what did you talk about?

Atif: I dialled my friend after so long and her mother picked up saying it’s a wrong number, don’t disturb me, haha.





Us: What do you have in your pockets right now?
Atif: A lot of boarding passes, a dollar, and a SIM card to earn a few more.


Us: Which book did you read most recently?

Atif: I was reading the Holy Quran. I am loving every bit of it – the history, the sayings and words, the Prophet, oneness of Allah, faith, zakat, Ramazan, Hajj, and everything.



Us: Would you ever consider getting a tattoo? If yes, what would the tattoo be/depict?

Atif: Well I am not a tattoo person, but if I decide to get one then it’s going to be some animal; a fox maybe.



Us: When was the last time you used a pen (or pencil) to write something down? What did you write?

Atif: I have been using it for the past six days to fill up the immigration forms; that tells you a lot about my tour. Before that I wrote a song about composing myself.


Us: Do you have any pet(s)? Have you had any pets in the past? Would you consider getting a pet in the future?

Atif: I don’t have any pets, never had them, and not planning to have any in the future as well.


*****
Atif says…

I love… my mom.
I dislike… people who keep poking their noses in others’ work.
I want… to explore everything.
I wish… peace and prosperity for my country.
I fear… living an unproductive life.
I hope… I shall never be hopeless.
I am grateful for… everything Allah has blessed me with.

*****



Spotlight
Bol

Starring: Humaima Malick, Atif Aslam, Iman Ali, Mahira Khan, Shafqat Cheema, Manzar Sehbai, Zaib Rehman, Sagar,and Amr Kashmiri

Director: Shoaib Mansoor
Tagline: Bolne ke liye ijazat nahin, himmat chahye

- Drama; a woman (Humaima Malick) who has been sentenced to death tells her story.
- Written and directed by Shoaib Mansoor; his second film, following his big screen debut Khuda Ke Liye (2007).
- Released on the 24th of June.
- Broke the box office record for the ‘highest gross in the first week of release’ by making over Rs. 22 million in six days.
- Has received a generally positive critical and commercial reception.
- Is a big screen debut for Humaima Malick, Atif Aslam and Mahira Khan.
- Soundtrack includes vocals by Atif Aslam, Hadiqa Kiyani, Sajjad Ali, Shabnam Majeed, Ahmed Jahanzeb, and Shuja Haider.

Atif Aslam’s Language of Love

Pakistani Rockstar Atif Aslam’s Language of Love

On a rooftop above NYC's Times Square, Atif Aslam talked to MTV Iggy's Shenaz Treasury about producing his first single at 15 with his pocket money, changing the business of the Pakistani music industry, recording with Guns and Roses and why his international fans mean so much to him. What drives Aslam to keep on going? "I believe that whenever I play music, that's the only time I am alive.




I am living a dream, says Atif Aslam NISHAD PADIYARATH
Thu Oct 06 2011 09:14:55 GMT+0400 (Arabian Standard Time) Oman Time

MUSCAT: He took everyone by surprise when he plunged into the world of acting. But then, it is music that has always excited Pakistani pop singer Atif Aslam. The singing sensation is here in Muscat for his show titled ‘Salaam 2011’, which is slated at the City Amphitheatre in Qurum tonight.



Speaking exclusively to Times of Oman yesterday, Aslam, who has a growing fan following in the sub-continent, especially after he made his name in Bollywood, talked about the acting offers he has been receiving following the success of his debut Pakistani film Bol.



Bol’s success

“My primary intention was to encourage Pakistani cinema and I got a great response from the film. I have got a few offers that I might consider if the scripts are good. But I do not want to disclose anything on that issue now, but yes they are intriguing,” he said. Bol is the tale of a depressed Lahore-based girl living in a male-dominated society struggling to find her own identity. Aslam plays the amiable neighbour.



However, it is music that fascinates the young Pakistani singer, who has several Bollywood hits to his credit. “I want to focus more on music. What I am today and the reason why I am talking to you now is all because of the fame I earned through music,” he reiterated. As part of his intention to promote the goodwill of Pakistan, Aslam is currently working on an international project titled The Dreamer Awakes, along with the American band Guns N’ Roses, which is due for release this summer.



“I just recorded a song with Guns N’ Roses, and we are working on this album. You know people see me as a rock star who can sing and dance, so I want to change that perception. The purpose behind the album is to tell the world that Pakistan is not a dangerous nation, but is a peaceful country,” said Aslam, who burst onto the Pakistani pop scene after his hugely successful solo album Jal Pari in 2004.



Its popularity transcended borders and soon he was flooded with Bollywood playback singing offers for movies including Race (Pehli Nazar Mein) and Ajab Prem Ki Gazab Kahani (Tu Jaane Na). But in spite of his huge popularity­­­ — he has close to 2.1 million fans on Facebook — Aslam would like to downplay his success as a singer.



Dream run

“I believe that this fame came by chance and I am living a dream now. I am blessed to see so many people who want to be in my shoes. I am thankful to God but I still believe that I am responsible for quite a lot of things,” he noted.



His show tonight will have the best of his popular Bollywood songs and from his personal albums.



“I was expecting a standing crowd but I was told that it is a seated event. But I want my audience to dance and sing with me which will give me the energy to sing all night,” he explained. The show, being organised by Roar Entertainment, will begin at 8pm. The gates for the show will open at 6:30pm.

Vote for Atif Aslam MTV Iggy’s Best New Band in the World

Hey Aadeez vote for Atif Aslam rite now.....Atif Aslam has been nominated at MTV Iggy’s Best New Band in the World Choose Atif Aslam ...the Next Global Superstar CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW

Atif Aslam Live in Concert at Karachi

Check out some latest Atif Aslam pics Live in Concert at Karachi