Dentist-turned-pop star Dr. Alban talks New Year’s Eve in Dubai, iconic hit It’s My Life, and staying grounded

I love Dubai. Whenever I’m in there, I enjoy myself because I know this country has good security, good weather, nice people, good food, and some great sun. When in Dubai, I will vibe with the environment. Of course, my big tracks have to be there—It’s My Life, you can’t do a show like this without playing the big ones. I’ll prepare a set-list that’s happy and positive, something that brings joy.

On NYE, I know people are happy, and it’s a special day for everyone. I’m expecting that people will change one of their attitudes that they had previously—maybe something bad or not so good—to a new one. That’s what New Year is all about. For 2025, we’re going to be happier, with less war, less problems, and less drama.

My family is full of doctors, lawyers, and engineers. At first, they said, “He’s leaving dentistry to be a musician? Musicians drink, take drugs, and do all sorts of things.” But I told them, “Not every musician does that. I don’t drink, and I don’t do drugs.” So I made the decision to live my life my way.

When I broke through, I was a little over 20, and with my medical background, I knew drugs weren’t good. Drugs affect your thinking and decision-making. I wanted to think and act normally. People don’t do drugs or drink around me because I don’t allow it.

Yes, we have the push and the aim to unite people with music. Definitely, music is a way to bring people together—no drama, no wars, no polarisation. That will be the focus for the New Year.

That was the time I knew everything was big. Even today, it’s still a big track, after so many years. People enjoy it, and there are different mixes of the song from different nationalities and countries. I’ll play the original and one of the remixes on New Year’s Eve.

Yes, I do. A lot of people bug you or fight you when you take a decision. But that’s what makes the song great—everyone can identify with it. Like my lyrics go: "It’s my life. Take it or leave it. This is the way I want to do it. Don’t try to force me or teach me."

Yes, it’s discipline, consistency, and knowing that certain things aren’t good. You have to believe they’re not good—drugs affect the brain and alcohol affects your behavior. Staying disciplined helps you stay grounded.

Of course, you meet a lot of people in my life of business, but you have to decide who you want around you. I chose people who didn’t drink or do drugs. I feel a responsibility to the audience—they come to see me, and I have to deliver.

A: Be yourself. Originality is the key to success. Don’t try to be something you’re not. Drugs and alcohol destroy lives and careers. Be as you are and come as you are.

My legacy is about staying true to myself, uniting people through music, and inspiring others to live authentically. Originality and staying grounded are what matter most.