Little Simz

Prolific London rapper Little Simz breathes new life into the global hip-hop scene through her complex and imaginative releases. She was born Simbiatu Abisola Abiola Ajikawo in 1994 in Islington. Initially drawn to acting, she was motivated to expand her creative efforts after discovering influential hip-hop auteurs Lauryn Hill and Missy Elliott. Since her first self-released mixtapes from the early 2010s, Little Simz has spoken up and out about her thorny path as a woman artist. Her breakthrough album, 2015’s A Curious Tale of Trials + Persons, introduced her as a hungry, ambitious MC who longed to connect with her greater purpose, as evinced by the contemplative “Wings”. In 2019, she released GREY Area, continuing her mission of proving her mettle through songs like the dense and determined “Venom”. On fully realised albums and experimental EPs alike—including 2024’s genre-averse sampling Drop 7—Little Simz presents an unflinching attitude amplified by her skilful pen.