Atika Yamin: Staying true to her sound in a commercial industry

Atika Yamin carved out an unconventional path in her music career, driven by a clear vision of the sound she wanted to be known for. Rather than taking the traditional route with major commercial labels, she embraced independence, trusting her talent and creativity. 

Choosing artistic freedom over industry norms, she harnessed the power of digital platforms like Spotify and YouTube to share her music with the world.

Three years ago, in February 2022, Atika Yamin debuted as a professional singer in Bangladesh's music industry with her first solo song, 'Ek Poshla Brishti'. Beyond being a vocalist, she has a deep passion for songwriting and composing, so she creates her own music.  

Now, with exciting projects queued for release, Atika's music is steadily gaining recognition, with her tracks being featured in OTT content, films, and beyond. In addition to her musical journey, she has ventured into acting, showcasing her versatility as a multifaceted artist. The promising young star recently spoke with The Business Standard about her journey towards fame.

Taking the music into her own hands

Atika Yamin takes full creative control of her music, writing and composing most of her solo releases herself.

Atika Yamin's voice became widely recognised through her song 'Aayna', which was featured in Hoichoi's web series 'Dour'. With her growing experience in singing for OTT content, she is now receiving opportunities to create music for films.

"I have already started singing for films. I've lent my voice to a song in the movie 'Nirjon Shakkharta' directed by Humayun Rashid Samrat, in which I have also acted. If everything goes according to plan, I will create more music for films," shared Atika. 

Atika enjoys having full control over her music, often being able to create music that resonates with her the most. 

"The feeling is very different. Sometimes, songs written and composed by others don't match my emotions. But when I sing my own songs, it feels like they truly represent me," commented Atika. 

However, Atika sheds light on the challenges of the industry, being an emerging artiste. According to her, celebrity singers are generally given priority for movie songs due to their star power. As a result, new female artistes have a hard time finding their big career break. 

Furthermore, she also elaborated on how production houses prioritise commercial opportunities, putting quality music and talent on the back burner. 

"I never had high expectations from traditional production houses in Bangladesh as they handle a variety of content. Music doesn't always get the attention it deserves and its originality gets lost. A song is like a book to an artiste. That's why I upload my songs on my own channel," shared Atika.

The artiste further elaborated on how she wants to expand her reach to an international level, which is why she remains on her path as an independent artiste. 

Atika Yamin started learning music at the age of five—first at home, then through formal training. Her first music teacher was Rezwan Ali Lavlu, followed by Asit Dey. When she was in the fourth grade, she enrolled in the Nazrul Sangeet department at Chhayanaut in Dhaka. At a young age, she graduated in Nazrul Sangeet from the institution. 

By the time she was in ninth grade, she was enlisted as a child artist on BTV. Since then, she has pursued both music and acting simultaneously, although academics have always been her top priority.

Diverse talents

Recently, the musician and actress also acted in the drama, 'Hello Boss' directed by Shahid Un Nabi alongside 'Nirjon Shakkharta'. While details of both projects are still being kept under wraps, Atika shared that she plays a major role in 'Hello Boss'.

Atika makes the occasional appearance in dramas and films, however, her priorities remain on her music.

"I'm not making any grand plans for acting right now. I want to keep it limited to selected short films and movies. I have already received some offers with interesting roles. I'm particularly interested in acting in comedy stories as well."  

Many Bangladeshi musicians and television actors have transitioned into film acting. Atika Yamin was asked if she would consider acting in commercial films.  

"In commercial films, the role is very important. If my co-actors are good, I would love to act. I want to take on roles that make an impact. If I get such an opportunity, I will certainly act in commercial films," concluded Atika.