Earning critical and commercial success alike, Nigerian singer/songwriter Simi paid homage to her varied influences with a ballad-driven style of Afropop.

Born and raised in Ojuelegba, a suburb of Surele, Simi (born Simisola Bolatito Ogunleye) found her natural voice in her early years as part of Outstandin', a musical group at her local church. Taking her talents into the studio, it was not long before the young vocalist made her presence known: her professional debut, 2008's Oga Ju, was a D.I.Y. collection of gospel tunes. The 2014 EP Restless gave the young musician her first taste of the spotlight. Primarily composed of covers, including Adele's "Set Fire to the Rain," the project landed the young musician a record deal with X3M Music. After releasing singles "Tiff" and "E No Go Funny" in early 2014, Simi had a winning streak in 2015 -- she was awarded the Most Promising Act to Watch category at the Nigeria Entertainment Awards and picked up a nomination for Best Alternative Song at The Headies.

In 2016, the musician consolidated her career with the Chemistry EP and songs "Love Don't Care" and "Outta My Head" secured two nominations and a win at The Headies alongside a nomination for Best Breakthrough Act at that year's MTV Africa Awards. Her long-awaited sophomore album, Simisola, arrived the following year. Landing at number five on the Billboard World Albums Chart, Simisola showcased the musician's expansive sound, which incorporated soul, Afrobeat, singer/songwriter, and highlife influences into her blend of Afropop.

Ogunleye returned with her third studio album, Omo Charlie Champagne, Vol. 1, in April 2019. Previewed by "Lovin," "Ayo," and "I Dun Care," the project embraced a more mellow, ballad-centric direction. After its release, Simi and X3M parted ways, with the musician shortly announcing the formation of her own independent label, Studio Brat. The long-anticipated sequel to her Restless EP, Restless II, arrived in October 2020; taking notes from modern styles including Afrobashment and trap, the project featured guest spots from Ms. Banks, WurID, and Adekunle Gold. ~ David Crone, Rovi