No rapper has such a compelling yet laid-back flow as Simbiatu Ajikawo, better known as Little Simz. In 2021, the British-Ghanaian artist broke through with the stunning work Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, but those who keep an eye on the hot London scene had already known her for some time. On record and stage, she uses a broad range of music to frame her biting raps, ranging from grime to soul and Afrobeat with a punk slant. Lauryn Hill is an obvious influence. As if Little Simz’ style isn’t cool enough on its own, her collaboration with producer Inflo provides extra swagger, with occasional orchestral arrangements that can also be heard on her latest album No Thanks. It’s not just the flow that makes Little Simz one of the most interesting rappers of the moment, she also has a lot of important things to say about mental health and powerful women. She is a storyteller who has you hanging on her every word right from the very first syllable.
