Hi Tea with Sima Ved Are you ready for a stir?

His first stage appearance was in a fancy dress show at his school when he was in grade 1, where he performed as Imran Khan, the former captain of Pakistan’s national cricket team. Though music always played in the background for this young lad from Wazirabad, Pakistan his ambition in life was to be a fast bowler for the Pakistan team. Cricket was his passion – it still is! An ace student in school. Often the youngest in his class. Atif was never behind in his studies, sports or songs; he infact even got a double promotion for being such an outstanding all rounder.
He had no formal training in songs but picked up quickly by ear. He’d listen to the music that his elder brother had and soon mastered control over his voice. On and off he’s sing religious songs (Naats and Hamds) at college and people began to see the singing sparks. He however was still bent upon being a cricket star! Between singing songs for his friends in the college canteen and winning competitions for his performances on stage; he put in a lot of practise for professional cricket. But when the game started taking a toll on his grades, he left the field but continued to entertain those who loved his voice.
He was inspired by Kishore Kumar and Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. With each recognition that he got for his sing skill he was pulled deeper into the art. He got support from his brothers and his friends. Together they set up a band. They created music and gave performances at local events and restaurants. Everything was going pretty smooth until Atif decided to split from the group due to personal differences. He went solo. Fame and fortune did not take long to find him.
A success story written by fate, his first solo album Jal Pari was a best seller. It was liked in India too. His second solo album, Doorie broke all records and was a hit in India. Then came Meri Kahani, a soulful, poignant album that tells the story of his life. Song after song he created a closer bond with his fans. His voice transcended borders. His melody touched hearts and he grew as the singer with a magnificent soul.
Atif gave his first major concert at Al Hamra Hall in Lahore, where he performed during the break of a stage drama Moulin Rouge. Soon after, he was blessed with a chance to sing at the prestigious Royal Albert Hall. Between then and now, he has given many international performances in USA and Canada with RDB and Annie. He is also working on an international project titled The Dreamer Awakes with the American rock band, Guns n Roses – the song is due for release later this year.
He has received honours and awards both in India and Pakistan. He loved all over the world – not just for the smooth flow in his songs but also for the simplicity of his being.