The East-London-born rapper and singer Simbiatu ‘Simbi’ Abisola Abiola Ajikawo better known as ‘Little Simz’ took to the stage on the 10th and 11th of November playing to crowds of 10,250 in the Great Hall at the outstanding venue, Alexandra Palace, near Muswell Hill and Wood Green. The shows came as part of the singers’ sold-out UK tour this year.
Midway through her second set, the artist earnestly declared “London, I need you to understand that you’re witnessing greatness, and I don’t say that with arrogance, I say that with confidence”. Being raised in Islington, selling out this venue was a landmark for her in her life. She continued “It took me a while but I’m finally here.”
The artist studied music at Westminster Kingsway College and the University of West London and describes her music as rap and experimental. Since graduating, she has risen to the top of her game, performing at BBC Radio 1 Extra and releasing her music with AWAL. The star has had a steady rise to fame and critical acclaim which has since resulted in a Mercury Prize win and a BRIT Award for 2021’s Sometimes I Might Be Introvert.
★★★★★ “A new star is risen – she should be headlining festivals. Simz is an artist at the absolute top of her game, and it shows.” – The Standard
The Alexandra Palace shows were in support of the artist’s fifth studio album No Thankyou which was released in 2022 through the indie label ‘Forever Living Originals.’ Find the Spotify playlist of her full Ally Pally set below:
The “Indisputable Star” entered as a silhouette wearing a slick, operative outfit of a white shirt and black cargo trousers, paired with black tie, sunglasses and leather gloves and behind, there was a group of, also silhouetted gospel singers adding to the mystique of the performance. The singer spoke of how she has accomplished her dreams, urging others to do the same. She also asked for a minute’s silence, to request fans take a moment to consider all those lost in the Israel-Hamas war.
The venue has recently hosted Grammy-nominated artists Fred Again and James Blake as well as English electronic artist Four Tet, musician, DJ and big beat forerunner Fatboy Slim and many more.
Director of Events Simon Fell exclaimed “It’s been an unbelievable year for live music at Ally Pally. The number and profile of artists playing here have been mind-blowing, and it’s been brilliant to offer such a varied and diverse programme to fans. Since the 60s the venue has built a reputation as a go-to place for music, but over the last decade in particular things have gone to another level. This is the biggest year for music in our history and we’re planning next year to be even bigger.”
