Singing pays my bills – Mammy Zinariya

Fatima Mahmood, popularly known as Mammy Zinariya, is a Kannywood singer that resides in Jos, Plateau state.

According to Mammy, what makes her songs unique in Kannywood is her modern take of Hausa traditional music.

Mammy told PREMIUM TIMES that even before she started singing in 2012, she believed that she was going to bring in something new to the industry with her style of music.

“I write my songs myself,” she said.

She, however, noted that she is inspired by Kannywood song writer and singer, Umar Shareef.

“Umar Shareef is my idol. He sings what I want to hear and I have really learnt from him even though he is a male singer,” she said. “His musical style and approach to song will always make the listener want some more from him and that is how my songs are.”

Mammy also sings for politicians during ceremonies.

One of her hits is the soundtrack from the movie, Soyayya.

When asked if she would act someday, Mammy said she would rather stick to singing.

“Many people want me to be an actress as well as a singer but honestly, I am so comfortable with singing and I think I am making a very good living out of it. I bought my own car and went on Hajj, all with singing.”

She applauds her parents for their support.

“My parents were very understanding. As you know, some parents, especially here in the north, would not allow their children to either act or sing; mine where the opposite. They support me and always advise me to be humble in my work.”

Mammy said she wished to perform with Shareef and Murja Baba, her favourite Kannywood singers.

At 25, although she is making waves, Mammy said she is just beginning and would surely be the talk of the town on the Kannywood music scene soon.