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Exclusive: ‘I Don’t Want To Buy Respect’: Atif Aslam On Releasing His New Album Independently After 18 Years

In a candid chat with Curly Tales, the singer opens up about why he's finally stepping away from film songs to release music entirely on his own terms

by Deeplata Garde
Exclusive: ‘I Don’t Want To Buy Respect’: Atif Aslam On Releasing His New Album Independently After 18 Years
Cover Image Courtesy: Internal

For nearly two decades, Atif Aslam has been the voice behind some of Bollywood cinema’s biggest hits. But almost always singing someone else’s words to someone else’s tune. In a recent conversation with Curly Tales host Vivansha, Atif got real about what pushed him to finally release an independent album after 18 years. He explained that while he’s grateful for the years spent on film songs written and composed by others, he reached a point where he wanted to write and compose for himself again. The result is a handful of tracks on his upcoming fourth album that are entirely his own lyrics, composition, and all.

“I’ve Gone Back To Zero,” Says Singer Atif Aslam To Curly Tales

We asked Atif how he expects fans to react to the new album, and he replied that he’s not expecting anything. He described going back to zero, calling himself the same fearless artist he was before fame changed the game, someone who releases music without expecting anything in return. It’s a refreshingly unbothered stance from an artist who’s spent years topping charts, and it says a lot about where his head is at with this project.

Why He’s Skipping The Label Entirely

Here’s the part that stands out most: Atif isn’t working with any record label for this album. His reasoning is simple and a little pointed in today’s industry. As he quotes, “You can literally pay for engagement, streams, and likes. But that’s not respect, and respect isn’t something you can buy.” That’s exactly why he’s choosing to go independent this time, keeping full creative control and cutting out anything that feels manufactured. It makes sense for an artist who built a career on authenticity.

Also Read: Exclusive: Atif Aslam Talks About His UAE Routine With Curly Tales

Watch The Full Interview Now!

This is just a glimpse of the conversation! Atif Aslam gets even more candid about his 18-year journey back to independent music, the songs that mean the most to him, and what fans can expect next. Catch the full chat on the Curly Tales YouTube channel, and don’t forget to hit subscribe so you never miss an episode.

Cover Image Courtesy: Internal

 

FAQs

What can fans expect from the new album?

Atif says he isn't setting expectations and wants to approach it the way he did early in his career.

Why did he choose to go independent?

He believes engagement and respect can't be bought, and wanted full creative control.

Why is Atif Aslam releasing an album after 18 years?

He wanted to return to writing and composing his own music, after years focused on film songs by other creators.

Deeplata Garde

Deeplata Garde is a Senior Content Writer with 8 years of experience crafting stories on food, travel, sports and pop culture. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Mass Media from the University Of Mumbai and has spent her career turning everyday moments into narratives readers can't scroll past. Powered by black coffee, dark chocolate & a concerning number of open tabs, she spends her non-working hours chasing sunsets, recommending restaurants & reading in a quiet corner.

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First Published: August 20, 2026 4:12 PM