Simi (singer)

Simi (singer)
Name	Simi
Caption	Simi performing in 2019
Birth name	Simisola Bolatito Kosoko
Birth date	19 April 1988
Birth place	Ojuelegba, Lagos, Nigeria
Origin	Lagos State, Nigeria
Genres	Afropop, R&B, Soul, Afro-soul
Occupations	Singer, songwriter, actress, record producer
Years active	2006–present
Labels	X3M Music, Studio Brat, Alté
Associated acts	Adekunle Gold, Falz, Don Jazzy, Tiwa Savage, Wande Coal

Simi (singer) is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, actress, and record producer known for blending Afropop and R&B with Nigerian folk music to produce emotive vocal performances and songwriting. Emerging from the Lagos music scene in the mid-2000s, she achieved mainstream recognition with breakout singles and albums that earned her multiple awards and collaborations with prominent Nigerian and international artists. Simi's work spans studio albums, film appearances, and philanthropic efforts that engage with cultural and social causes across Nigeria and beyond.

Early life and education

Simisola Bolatito Kosoko was born in Ojuelegba, Surulere area of Lagos State, Nigeria, to a family of Kosoko family lineage with roots in Lagos Island. She was raised in Lagos and attended primary and secondary school within the city before pursuing higher education at Kwara State University, where she studied Audiovisual Studies and later enrolled at the University of Lagos for additional coursework. During her youth she participated in local church choirs and community talent shows, drawing inspiration from Nigerian vocalists such as Sade Adu and Aṣa, as well as international artists including Whitney Houston and Beyoncé.

Career

Simi began her musical career releasing an independent gospel EP, "Ogaju", in 2008, entering the broader Nigerian entertainment scene that included contemporaries like Tiwa Savage, Wande Coal, and D'banj. She rose to prominence with the 2014 single "Tiff", produced by Oscar Heman-Ackah, which earned airplay on stations such as Cool FM and Beat FM and led to a recording contract with X3M Music, the label founded by Tunde Demuren. Under X3M she released the 2017 album "Simisola", which featured collaborations with Falz, Adekunle Gold, and production from Vtek and Legendury Beatz, and charted across streaming platforms and Nigerian charts maintained by outlets like NotJustOk and Pulse Nigeria.

Her songwriting credits extend to tracks for artists in the Nigerian music industry, and she has performed at events including the Felabration festival, The Headies, and international venues such as The O2 Arena in London and festivals in Accra and Abuja. Simi has also ventured into acting with appearances in productions associated with Nigerian Nollywood filmmakers and worked on collaborative projects with artists like Don Jazzy, Mr Eazi, Seyi Shay, and Olamide. Following her departure from X3M Music, she established an independent imprint, releasing singles and the album "Omo Charlie Champagne, Vol. 1", which showcased her continued evolution and collaborations with producers like Pheelz and Sarz.

Artistry and influences

Simi's vocal style combines elements of Afropop and R&B with melodic structures reminiscent of Highlife and Afro-soul, often incorporating Yoruba language and idioms alongside English lyrics. Her influences include Nigerian and international figures such as King Sunny Adé, Ayọ (singer), Fela Kuti, Sade Adu, Aṣa, and contemporary peers like Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade. Critics and music journalists at outlets like The Guardian (Nigeria), Vanguard (Nigeria), and This Day (Lagos) have highlighted her songwriting craft, vocal control, and thematic focus on relationships, identity, and cultural pride. Simi frequently collaborates with producers and musicians from the Nigerian music production community, including Don Jazzy and Legendury Beatz, integrating live instrumentation and modern production techniques.

Personal life

Simi is married to fellow Nigerian musician Adekunle Gold; their union has been covered by media outlets including Punch (Nigeria), The Guardian (Nigeria), and PM News Nigeria. The couple have collaborated musically and publicly shared aspects of their family life, connecting with fans through social media platforms like Instagram and Twitter. Simi is part of a broader network of Nigerian artists and entertainers, maintaining professional relationships with figures such as Falz, Tiwa Savage, Yemi Alade, and Wizkid while residing between Lagos and other cultural hubs in Nigeria.

Philanthropy and activism

Simi has participated in charitable initiatives and advocacy campaigns alongside organizations and events such as The Future Awards Africa, UNICEF Nigeria-aligned programs, and local grassroots efforts focused on maternal health and youth empowerment in Lagos State and Kwara State. She has used her platform in conjunction with other celebrities including Banky W, Timi Dakolo, and Mercy Johnson to raise awareness for causes promoted at forums like Africa Magic events and philanthropic drives associated with Nigerian entertainment networks.

Awards and nominations

Simi has been recognized by major Nigerian and African award institutions, receiving nominations and wins at events including The Headies, Nigeria Entertainment Awards, City People Entertainment Awards, and MTV Africa Music Awards. Notable accolades include nominations for Album of the Year and wins for categories such as Best Alternative Song and Best Collaboration for her work with artists including Falz and Adekunle Gold. Music press and chart bodies like Billboard (magazine), Apple Music regional charts, and Spotify editorial playlists have featured her projects alongside peers such as Burna Boy, Davido, and Wizkid.

Category:Nigerian singers Category:1988 births Category:Living people