Artist Spotlight: Little Simz

Little Simz has carved her place as one of the UK’s most compelling and innovative artists, and her story spans from the council estates of Islington to the global stage. She was born Simbiatu Ajikawo, and her journey from youth clubs in North London to winning a Mercury Prize is entirely down to her relentless drive and unparalleled artistry.

Little Simz’s ascent in the music industry has been marked by a series of critically acclaimed projects that display her lyrical prowess and genre-defying sound. Her 2021 album, Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, not only earned her the Mercury Prize but also shot her into limelight for audiences to see her as a force to be reckoned with in the contemporary music space. This was followed by the introspective No Thank You a year later, which delved into themes of ego, industry challenges, and personal growth, really showcasing her fearless depth as an artist. 

Now, Simz is on track to release her sixth studio album, Lotus, on June 6, 2025. The album promises to be a sonic exploration of transformation and resilience, drawing inspiration from the lotus flower’s ability to bloom in muddy waters—a metaphor Simz finds deeply resonant.

Collaborations on Lotus include notable artists such as Obongjayar and Moonchild Sanelly, who feature on the lead single “Flood.” This track, released on February 26, 2025, is accompanied by a striking black-and-white music video which was directed by Salomon Ligthelm.  The album also teased contributions from Sampha and Michael Kiwanuka, adding further depth to its rich sonic tapestry, and an evolutionary theme into new, unexplored genres.

Ahead of the album’s release, Simz has unveiled a trio of singles that offer a glimpse into the project’s diverse soundscape. ‘Flood’ is a powerful collaboration with Obongjayar and Moonchild Sanelly, this track sets the tone for Lotus with its minimalist arrangement and introspective lyrics that feel so authentically her. Following this, ‘Free’ released on March 27, 2025, and really solidified the album’s exploration of personal liberation and self-discovery. ‘Young’ is the most recent single, “Young,” dropping last Friday May 14. It shows off a more playful side of Simz as she reflects on the follies of youth with cheeky bars and a breezy beat. The deliberate release pattern of each single worked for me as it really showcases her growth and takes us on a journey in the correct order. Each song builds on the themes of the last.

Simz’s artistic endeavors extend beyond just her music. Last June, she curated the 30th edition of the Meltdown Festival at London’s Southbank Centre, to show her commitment to fostering artistic communities. Her collaboration with Coldplay on their ‘We Pray’ alongside Burna Boy, Elyanna, and Tini, showcased her versatility and gave her even more global appeal.

To support Lotus’ release, Little Simz has announced major UK headline shows, including performances at Manchester’s Co-Op Live on October 16 and London’s O2 Arena on October 17, 2025.  These concerts mark her biggest UK headline shows to date, as her influence and fanbase continues to blossom.

What sets Little Simz apart is her unapologetic authenticity and commitment to her craft. She seamlessly blends genres, from rap and grime to soul and jazz, creating a punchy, dramatic and exciting sound that is uniquely her own. Her lyrics are thought-provoking as she often looks inwards, often delving into personal experiences and societal observations.

As Lotus prepares to bloom, fans and critics alike eagerly anticipate the next chapter in Little Simz’s remarkable journey. With her distinctive voice and visionary approach, she continues to redefine the boundaries of contemporary music. Stay tuned for the release of Lotus on June 6, 2025, and experience the evolution of Little Simz firsthand.