Atif Aslam

“My intention now, more than anything, is to promote kids and deserving musicians. Because the time I've seen, I want them to see a better one.”

“I have learnt from experience that being insecure never helps, and neither does pulling anyone's leg.”

“The industry can choose to ignore my work if they want, but my fans won't.”

“I think I've been able to connect with people and their emotions through my songs. I feel honoured that despite having so many talented singers around, my work is always appreciated.”

“I really miss my youth. I'm not being ungrateful, but there was an Atif who used to roam the streets, who didn't care whether his photograph was taken or not, who used to hang out without people staring at him. I miss that carefree life and would give anything for it, even if it only lasts a few moments.”

“Music is something that should give you peace.”

“Yes, everybody has bullied me. They kept saying I was nasal and what not.”

“Yes, I think I am like the sea. I appear calm on the surface, but there's a lot going on within. Many a times, I may not react to certain things, but that doesn't mean that I don't care or I don't have emotions.”

“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.”

“Before becoming a father, I wanted to be No.1, but now I feel that there is no such thing. I just want to do my job and entertain as long as I can, because that's the best way to win people over.”

“I can't force myself to make up a song. Music comes to me naturally.”

“Talent should always be recognized - no one can keep it; no one owns it.”

“You are thinking about the music, about the mathematics of it. It's time-consuming and energy-consuming at the same time. That's why I take my time off, my family time, as inspirational. I cool off.”

“It is very overwhelming to find that you are loved by people belonging to different provinces and cultures. They give me the energy.”

“I am not inspired by anyone. I don't have any idol. I just follow the people around me and try and learn a few things.”

“Personally, I don't think of myself as a style icon. It's basically because the public loves me so much.”

“If my music has power, I don't have to hashtag anything. If it has to connect with someone, it will. That has been my experience.”

“I never thought about making music because it has to be a hit. There are so many better singers out there who are better trained in music, but I am probably the chosen one... I have not discovered any formula for staying relevant.”

“For me, lyrics are the most important thing in a song. And if they don't have meaning, I would never sing them - unless and until someone who loves your work asks me to do so.”

“I've heard legends and maestros praise my voice. It's overwhelming. I'm a nobody who shouldn't be at the receiving end of the such comments, and I'm extremely humbled.”