Meet Simisola Bolatito Kosoko (née Ogunleye), known to the world as Simi. Born on April 19, 1988, in Ojuelegba, Lagos, she’s a genre-defying Nigerian singer, songwriter, and sound engineer. Her journey from gospel roots to becoming one of Afropop’s most celebrated voices is one of sheer passion, resilience, and artistic evolution.
Early Life & Gospel Beginnings
Simi is the last of four children. After her parents' divorce, she was raised by her mother and grew up a tomboy with a deep love for music. She joined her local church choir at age 8, and by 10, she wrote her first song. In 2008, she debuted as a gospel artist with her album Ogaju, produced by Samklef. Though the album didn’t gain massive traction, it laid her foundation in music.
Education & Craftsmanship
A graduate of Mass Communication from Covenant University, Simi didn't just rely on her voice, she mastered the technical side of music too. She is an accomplished sound engineer who mixed and mastered several of her songs and even worked on Adekunle Gold’s debut album, Gold. Few Nigerian artists boast this rare combination of talent and technical expertise.
Breakthrough with 'Tiff' and X3M Music
In 2014, Simi’s cover of Rihanna’s “Man Down” gained online traction, prompting her to release the Restless EP. That same year, she dropped “Tiff”, which skyrocketed her into the mainstream. The song earned her a Headies nomination for Best Alternative Song (2015). Soon after, she signed with X3M Music, marking a new chapter in her career.
The Album That Changed Everything – Simisola (2017)
In 2017, Simi released Simisola, an album that cemented her place in Afropop history. It featured hits like “Joromi”, “Smile for Me”, and “Aimasiko.” She was also debuted at #5 on Billboard World Albums
She won Album of the Year at The Headies 2018 and she also received critical acclaim for blending highlife, soul, and juju in a fresh way.
Love, Music & Marriage
In January 2019, Simi married fellow musician Adekunle Gold, after years of private dating. The duo is one of Nigeria’s most adored celebrity couples. Their music collaborations, like “Promise” and “Look What You Made Me Do”, reflect genuine intimacy and artistic synergy. In May 2020, they welcomed their daughter, Adejare (Deja).
A Personal Tribute – Omo Charlie Champagne (2019)
Released on her 31st birthday, Omo Charlie Champagne Vol. 1 was a tribute to her late father. The album took a new sonic direction—blending Afro-fusion, EDM, R&B, and soul.
Featured hits like “Jericho” (feat. Patoranking) and “By You” (feat. Adekunle Gold)
Peaked on various African charts
Reinforced Simi's ability to balance personal storytelling with genre versatility.
Entrepreneurial Move – Launch of Studio Brat
In June 2019, after leaving X3M Music, Simi founded her own record label – Studio Brat. It symbolized her commitment to independence, artistic control, and fostering other creative voices. Under Studio Brat, Simi continued releasing music true to her style—unfiltered, sonically rich, and deeply human.
Global Recognition & Advocacy
Simi became a Spotify EQUAL Africa ambassador in 2022, promoting gender equality and celebrating African women in music. She toured the US and UK, pushing Afrobeat and African soul to new audiences. Her inclusion on platforms like NPR’s Tiny Desk and Colors Studios further boosted her global profile.
'To Be Honest' (TBH) & Critical Reception was reased in June 2022, To Be Honest (TBH) was both a confession and celebration. Simi spoke about fame, self-worth, and identity.
Notable tracks:
"Woman” – a feminist anthem challenging gender roles
“Naked Wire” – a sensual, rhythmic love song
"No Joy” – raw commentary on pressure and peace. Critics hailed the album as a mature work of an artist comfortable in her skin. On July 5, 2024, Simi released her fifth studio album, Lost and Found, featuring collaborations with:
🎤 Tiwa Savage
🎤 Falz
🎤 Aṣa
🎤 Lojay
Her latest single, titled “Day by Day”, featuring Kizz Daniel (Kishtani), was released on June 6, 2025. The track is already gaining traction for its soulful vibe and melodic richness.
Awards & Achievements
Simi’s artistry has earned her multiple awards:
•Headies 2016 – Best Female Vocal Performance
•City People Music Awards – Most Promising Act
•Headies 2018 – Album of the Year (Simisola)
•Future Awards Africa – Prize for Music
She had over 100 million streams on platforms like Spotify and Boomplay, and then she continues to be a mentor, advocate, and inspiration to the next generation of African creatives.
The Legacy in Progress
From her early days in a church choir to becoming a vocal icon in Africa, Simi’s journey is one of fearless reinvention. She balances motherhood, marriage, entrepreneurship, and a powerful musical voice–all with grace.
Simi isn’t just a singer.
She’s a movement and the best is still unfolding.
No comments:
Post a Comment