Llona talks music, ambition and the journey behind On The Road

Nigerian singer and rapper Llona, born Michael Ajuma Attah, recently completed an unprecedented 26-city tour across Nigeria, marking a significant milestone in his career. This tour followed the release of his debut album, Homeless, in 2024, which garnered widespread acclaim and amassed over 250 million streams. The scale of his nationwide journey enabled Llona to connect deeply with fans from diverse cultural backgrounds and regions.

Rooted in the vibrant traditions of Northern Nigeria, Llona embarked on his musical path at the age of nine, driven by a desire to use music as a vehicle for healing and empowerment. His breakthrough project, Homeless, has been described by critics as a modern classic, blending personal narrative with a broader social consciousness that resonates with a wide audience across the country.

The extensive tour, spanning 25 states and 26 cities, offered Llona a unique perspective on Nigeria’s cultural mosaic. Despite challenges such as heavy rains during some performances, audiences remained steadfast, demonstrating a strong support base. However, the tour was not without its emotional trials, including the tragic loss of a fan during one event, a somber moment that underscored the complex realities faced by performers and their communities.

Throughout his journey, Llona emphasized the importance of staying grounded amid the highs and lows of fame. He attributes his resilience to the lessons imparted by his mother, who instilled a strong work ethic and determination. This foundation has helped him navigate the pressures of the music industry, especially in an environment where he often feels compelled to maintain artistic integrity rather than conform to mainstream expectations.

Music was not Llona’s only ambition; he once aspired to join the military, a dream curtailed by the realities of access and connections required for such a career path in Nigeria. This shift led him to fully embrace music, which he regards as his true calling and platform for influence.

Reflecting on the creation of On The Road, the album serving as a companion to his tour, Llona described the thematic focus on movement and progression. The cover art, featuring a tour bus with his manager onboard, symbolizes the constant journey and partnership integral to his career’s momentum.

The album features collaborations with notable artists such as Ghanaian rapper Black Sherif and American singer Fridayy, each adding distinctive elements to the project. The track with Black Sherif, Cry, was recorded during a spontaneous session in Ghana, highlighting the organic creative process behind the collaboration. His work with Fridayy also stands out, characterized by an unexpected synergy that reflects shared artistic vision.

Songs like Turbulence and Won’t Die encapsulate Llona’s assertive self-awareness and prophetic reflections on his path. Turbulence serves as a bold declaration of self-worth, confronting industry challenges, while Won’t Die acts as an affirmation of survival and perseverance through adversity.

Llona’s candidness about his struggles with anger, explored in the track Anger Management, reveals a nuanced self-reflection rarely seen in mainstream discourse. Despite understanding the triggers and consequences of his temper, he acknowledges the ongoing effort required to manage it effectively.

A significant period of growth involved a two-year hiatus from releasing music, during which Llona studied the psychology of music to deepen his understanding of its impact. This academic pursuit informs his current artistry, enriching his connection with listeners and enhancing the emotional depth of his work.

Looking forward, Llona advises patience and openness to the unfolding of life’s journey, recognizing that time’s passage brings clarity and realignment. His story exemplifies a commitment to authentic expression and a relentless pursuit of dreams against formidable odds, positioning him as a compelling figure in contemporary African music.