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| Biography of Simi, Career and Achievements |
Early Life and Background
Simisola Bolatito Kosoko (née Ogunleye), professionally known as Simi, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and sound engineer born on April 19, 1988, in Ojuelegba, Lagos State, Nigeria. She is the last of four children and grew up in a close-knit Christian family.
Simi had a strong interest in music from a young age and was actively involved in her church choir, where she honed her vocal skills. She attended Stars International College in Ikorodu, Lagos, before earning a degree in Mass Communication from Covenant University.
Early Career and Gospel Beginnings
Simi started her music journey as a gospel artist. In 2008, she released her debut gospel album titled Ogaju, which featured tracks like Ara Ile and Iya Temi. Although the project didn’t gain massive attention, it showcased her vocal talent and laid the foundation for her career.
Breakthrough into Mainstream Music
Simi’s transition into mainstream Afropop came in 2014 with the release of her hit single Tiff. The song gained widespread airplay and earned her a nomination at The Headies Awards, marking her entry into the Nigerian music industry spotlight.
She later signed with X3M Music and released several successful projects. Her unique voice, soulful lyrics, and ability to blend Afro-pop, soul, and R&B made her stand out among Nigerian artists.
Rise to Fame and Major Projects
In 2016, Simi released her sophomore album “Simisola”, which became a huge success. The album featured hit songs such as:
Joromi
Smile for Me
Aimasiko
Gone for Good
The project topped music charts and solidified her as one of Nigeria’s most talented female vocalists.
Her 2019 album, “Omo Charlie Champagne, Vol. 1”, further expanded her artistry, blending Afropop with Afro-soul and contemporary R&B.
In 2022, she released her critically acclaimed album “To Be Honest (TBH)”, featuring tracks like Duduke, Naked Wire, and Loyal.
Hit Songs
Some of Simi’s most popular songs include:
Tiff (2014).
Jamb Question (2015)
Joromi (2017)
Smile for Me (2017)
Duduke (2020)
Woman (2021)
Naked Wire (2022)
Her song Duduke became an anthem across Africa and beyond, especially as it was released while she was expecting her first child, making it even more relatable to fans.
Collaborations and Sound Engineering
Simi is also a skilled sound engineer. She mixed and mastered several songs for other artists, including Adekunle Gold’s debut album Gold.
She has collaborated with top artists such as:
Adekunle Gold
Falz (Chemistry EP, 2016)
Patoranking
Ladipoe
Tiwa Savage
Awards and Recognition
Most Promising Act to Watch – Nigeria Entertainment Awards (2015)
Best Vocal Performance (Female) – The Headies (2015, 2016)
Album of the Year – The Headies (2018, for Simisola)
Multiple nominations at AFRIMA, MTV Africa Music Awards, and BET Awards.
Personal Life
In January 2019, Simi married fellow Nigerian musician Adekunle Gold. The couple welcomed their first daughter, Adejoro Kosoko (Deja), in 2020.
Simi is admired not only for her music but also for her authenticity, outspoken personality, and advocacy for women’s rights and social issues.
Legacy and Impact
Simi is widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most gifted female artists. Her ability to infuse emotions into her music and her versatility in different genres have earned her both critical acclaim and commercial success.
She continues to inspire a new generation of female musicians in Africa while remaining a powerful voice in the Afrobeats movement.
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