Talking Shop: Singer Imran Khan

Imran Khan originally wanted to be a basketball player

Imran Khan is a Dutch-born Punjabi singer who took the British Asian music scene by storm with his debut single Ni Nachle (Let's Dance).

That was two years ago and now the 25 year-old has just released his debut album Unforgettable.

He's currently on an album signing tour of the UK.

He started in London and over the next few weeks he will visit other cities including Bradford, Manchester, Bolton and Newcastle.

How does it feel to have built up a massive following in the space of two years?

Lots of fans turned up today. I didn't expect so many people but it feels nice because they are still supporting me after my first hit which was two years ago. I always love meeting people around the world - I love it!

And it's not just young girls that turn up?

No it's young boys and aunts and uncles as well.

Is it the first time you have done an album signing tour?

Yes it's the first time I have ever done such a tour. It's a new experience for me. I decided to do the tour because the album needs the publicity. I worked two years, day and night, on the album so it deserves it.

Why have fans had to wait two years for your album?

When we released Ni Nachle we didn't realise it was going to be such a big hit. We just tested the music scene by putting the single out. We didn't have an album to release back then. Now we've spent two years on Unforgettable.

Being a Dutch artist and who still lives in Holland - how hard was it for you to break into the British Asian music scene?

It was quite easy for me and I had a lot of luck. Earlier on in my career I did struggle in Holland but later I was picked up by Prestige Records who launched my first single. I used always to listen to Punjabi tracks and I saw a big gap in the industry so I wanted to make a difference with my kind of music.

It wasn't just the British Asian scene we targeted - but the rest of the world as I believe music is universal.

Did you always want to be a singer?

No, I wanted to be a basketball player but I was pulled towards music. I will play basketball but only for fun. My whole focus in life is on my music career. I see a very bright future for myself.

I would like to just say to all my fans keep supporting me and respect each other.

Are you planning on any gigs?

Yes, of course. I am planning an Imran Khan World Tour which will happen later this year. I enjoy performing live.

Imran Khan was talking to BBC Asian Network entertainment reporter Shabnam Mahmood.