Artist Focus: Simi (Nigerian Singer)
Simiwas born to sing
Real name:Simisola Ogunleye Stage name:Simi Date of birth:April 19, 1988 State of Origin:Ondo Nationality:Nigerian Genre:Afro Pop, Soul, R & B
Music has always been a part ofSimi. Growing up, she wrote her first song at the age of 10 and began singing when she was 16.
Simi was born inOjuelegba, a suburb ofSurulere,Lagos State,Nigeria. She was raised by a single mum following her parents’ separation when she was just 9.
Eager to showcase her musical talent, the petite singer joined her church’s teenage choir, where she began her foray into the music industry as a gospel singer, releasing her debut studio album in 2008 titledOgaju.
A few years later, Simi broadened her music horizon when she switched over to secular songs and got her major breakthrough in 2014 after the release of her song,Tiff. The song earned two nominations atThe Headies 2015.
Nigerians quickly became enamored with her unique voice and she went on to release hits likeJamb Question,Soldier (both featuringFalz), andSmile For Me.
Simi further asserted her musical prowess in 2016 with the release ofChemistry, an E.P. with Falz, following it up with the ‘Simisola’album. The album became a hit, making the number 5 spot on theBillboard World Music Charts. It also debuted at number 1 on bothApple MusicandiTuneschart, holding the position for three consecutive weeks.
Simi added another feather to her cap when she became anEtisalatambassador in 2017. The graduate of Mass Communication fromCovenant Universityalso released unforgettable songs likeJoromi in 2017,I Dun Care in 2018, andAyo in 2019.
The talented songstress launched her record label,Studio Brat, in June 2019.
In a music industry dominated by the male folk, Simi has proved that she can hold her own with her counterparts, showing in numerous ways that she is not one to be taken lightly. Her most distinguishing quality is her voice, the like of which is rare. It has the ability to melt hearts and is as charming as the pretty singer.
Simi’s music resume is as impressive as her seductively entertaining vocals. She is a recipient of 2 Headies and has also won 1Nigeria Entertainment Award, 3People Entertainment Awards,and 1Nigerian Teen Choice Award.
There is a saying that big things come in small packages. Simi may be small in size but what she lacks in that department, she more than makes up in her music. The colossal shadow she wields in the music industry is one that will not be easily forgotten.