The Afro-melody artiste’s breakthrough singles reflect a generational shift as Northern Nigeria’s youth fuse traditional Hausa sounds with contemporary global genres.
At just 24, Al-Ameen Saidu Muhammad has achieved what many Northern Nigerian artists spend years chasing: two songs simultaneously cracking Kano’s Top Ten. His breakout singles “Wajo” and “Dance to My Tune” (featuring Son of Jigawa) landed at fourth and sixth positions respectively in May, marking the arrival of a new voice in the region’s rapidly evolving music scene.
Better known as Lermyn, the Edo-born, Kano-raised artiste represents a generation of musicians reshaping Northern Nigeria’s sonic landscape – blending traditional Hausa cultural identity with Afrobeat, hip-hop, and global pop influences.
In an exclusive discussion with The Nollywood Reporter, Lermyn opened up about his journey from church choirs to chart success, his creative process, and the evolving Northern Nigerian music scene.
“Back in 2015, I used to sneak out of the house with friends just to watch the choir at church,” Lermyn recalls. “I loved the instruments, the sound. It was something I felt deeply.”
From Dancer to Songwriter
Before becoming Lermyn, he performed as Limpoko, a dancer whose moves drew comparisons to popular performer Poco Lee. But criticism pushed him toward songwriting, a pivot that would define his career.
“I wrote my first song on a whim,” he says. “When I shared it with my friends, they encouraged me. That moment showed me this was something real.”
His evolution mirrors a broader transformation in Northern Nigerian music. The region’s dominant genre, “Nanaye” – a modern Hausa musical style pioneered by artists like Aminu Ladan (Alan Waka), Naziru M. Ahmad, Ali Jita, and Fati Niger – now shares space with a hip-hop generation including Classiq, Ziriums, Morell, and Nomiis Gee.
“Music in Northern Nigeria has taken a dramatic turn,” Lermyn observes. “Even traditional Nanaye artistes now seek collaborations with rappers to keep up with trending sounds.”
Afro-Melody Meets Conservative Values
Lermyn describes his style as “Afro Melo,” short for Afro-melody, fusing African rhythms with jazz, hip-hop, and electronic elements. “I deal with a lot of melody. That’s what influences my sound.”
Operating in Kano’s conservative environment requires careful balance. “Before I record a song, I send it to six or seven people to vet it,” he explains. “I always consider religion and morality. This is a conservative environment, and I want my music to reflect that respect.”
Language becomes another bridge to his audience. “I infuse Hausa lyrics in my music, it helps connect with fans across Kano, Kaduna, and Katsina. They relate more when I speak their language.”
Yet creative boundaries aren’t absolute. “Honestly, breaking the rules a little can make you more popular,” he admits with a laugh.
Independent Artiste’s Challenges
Success hasn’t eliminated familiar industry obstacles. “The financial aspect is the biggest challenge,” Lermyn says. “I have had help from my parents, but it’s not easy.”
Digital platforms present their own puzzles. “My TikTok gets views and engagement, but people don’t follow me, and that affects how others perceive my brand.”
He’s also navigated exploitative label offers. “One label wanted to sign me but said they would control my social media and streaming platforms. That’s where the money comes from. I couldn’t accept that.”
His advice to emerging artists: “Know your worth. Don’t just sign because someone waves money in your face. Your growth as an artist should be their priority.”
Looking Beyond the North
Lermyn’s ambitions extend past regional boundaries. “I want to expand beyond Kano, Kaduna, and Katsina. I want to create music that reflects people’s minds and cultures, wherever they are.”
He’s currently developing new material with Son of Jigawa and hopes to collaborate with established artists like Hamisu Breaker or Umar Sharif. “I have tagged Hamisu on Instagram, sent messages. No reply yet. But I’ll keep trying.”
For live performances, he promises total commitment. “On stage, I give my all. I win people over. Expect mad energy, creativity, and fire.”
His message to young creatives remains simple: “Be different. Be unique. Don’t follow the crowd. Your originality is your power.”
The Sound of Cultural Shift
Lermyn represents more than individual success; he’s part of a cultural transformation redefining Northern Nigerian music’s identity and reach. From traditional Nanaye ballads to genre-bending Afro-melody, the region’s youth are finding their voice in a new musical era.
If his current trajectory indicates anything, Northern Nigeria’s musical future appears both vibrant and unstoppable.