Little Simz is one of the most successful and acclaimed British artists. She has won several prestigious awards, played on the largest stage, and had a major role in a Netflix series.
Many who have reached the same level of success would probably have gotten hubris, but for Little Simz, or Simbiatu Ajikawo as she is actually named, it was the opposite. When she recorded the new album "Lotus", her self-confidence wavered.
It was a shock to me – I have never doubted my ability before. As an artist, you can have all the success and all the money in the world, but if you are a true artist, creation is all you care about. It was as if I lost my "why".
"Really proud"
She describes it as being close to a mental breakdown, but instead found a way to get through it: by channeling the angst into the music.
I'm really proud of the album and I really feel that it's the best I've done so far. I got the vinyl yesterday and when I opened the box it was like "damn, it's here for real now, in my hands".
Little Simz grew up in the northern parts of London, with her mom and two older sisters. The sisters introduced her to artists like Busta Rhymes, Nas, and Lauryn Hill, which made her dream of a career as an artist.
Recently, she received an award at the Brit Awards gala, and then her mom followed her on stage, a touching moment that was rewritten in British media. It wasn't planned, says Little Simz.
It just felt natural, she held my hand and followed me. It became a very fine memory and I'm glad we got to share it. She's proud of me and a very supportive mom.
Collaboration with Swedish artist
Born in 1994, she started with music already in her teens. In 2015, she released her debut album and "Lotus" is Little Simz' sixth in order. In between, she has released numerous mixtapes and EPs.
"Lotus" contains several collaborations, including with Swedish Yukimi Nagano from the band Little Dragon.
It was super nice that she agreed to guest on the track "Enough".
Little Simz is also looking forward to playing at Way Out West in August. Last time she visited Sweden was during the Christmas week of December 2022 for a gig at Slaktkyrkan.
I like the Swedish audience. It feels like you have good taste.
Name: Simbiatu Ajikawo
Born: February 23, 1994
Background: Grew up in Islington. Played in the TV series "Spirit warriors" in 2010 and then followed a supporting role in. She played in the Netflix series "Top boy" season three-five.
In 2015, she released her debut album "A curious tale of trials + persons" and since then, it has become five albums more.
Has also modeled for Miu Miu and graced the cover of British Vogue.
