Simi – Ara Ile
| Stage Name: | Simi |
| Real Name: | Simisola Bolatito Kosoko |
| Occupation: | Musician |
| Date Of Birth/Age: | 19th April 1988 (35 years old) |
| State of Origin: | Lagos State |
| Gender: | Female |
| Nationality: | Nigerian |
| Marital Status: | Adekunle Gold |
| Education: | Covenant University |
| Known for: | Ara Ile |
Simisola Bolatito Kosoko, known to the world as Simi, was born on April 19, 1988, in the vibrant suburb of Ojuelegba, Lagos State, Nigeria. As the youngest of four siblings, her early life was filled with the rhythms of family and the joy of childhood. However, her journey unfolded with both highs and lows, shaping her into the multifaceted artist and person she is today.
Early Life
Her childhood in Ojuelegba was marked by her infectious laughter and a spirit of resilience. Despite her parents’ separation when she was just 9, she remained a beacon of positivity. In an interview with Vanguard newspaper, Simi revealed her tomboy tendencies during those early years, offering a glimpse into the spirited girl who would later become a musical sensation.
Education
Her education journey took her to Stars International College in Ikorodu, Lagos State, where she honed her academic skills while nurturing her love for music. Later, she pursued a degree in Mass Communication at Covenant University, showcasing a commitment to both her studies and her burgeoning musical interests.
Career Beginnings
Simisola’s professional journey in the music industry began in 2008 with the release of her debut studio album, “Ogaju.” This collection of songs, including “Iya Temi” and “Ara Ile,” marked the emergence of a young talent with a distinct voice and a passion for storytelling through music.
Her trajectory gained momentum with the release of the EP “Restless” in 2014, a pivotal moment that earned her a record deal with X3M Music.
The Breakthrough
In 2014, she achieved widespread recognition with the release of “Tiff,” a song that garnered a nomination for Best Alternative Song at The Headies 2015. The success of “Tiff” led to her signing a record deal with X3M Music, a major milestone in her career.
The subsequent years saw her reaching new heights with the release of her second studio album, “Simisola,” in 2017. The album, featuring tracks like “Smile for Me” and “Joromi,” debuted at number 5 on the Billboard World Albums chart.
Personal and Artistic Journey
Simisola’s third studio album, “Omo Charlie Champagne, Vol. 1,” released in 2019, marked a significant chapter in her life. Dedicated to her late father, Charles Oladele Ogunleye, who passed away in 2014, the album showcased a blend of sentimental ballads, Afro-pop, Afro-fusion, R&B, EDM, and moombahton.
In a series of social media messages in March 2019, Simi disclosed her plan to release the album on her birthday, April 19, aligning the celebration with both personal and professional milestones. The album featured collaborations with artists like Patoranking, Maleek Berry, Falz, and her husband, Adekunle Gold. Simi’s ability to infuse her personal experiences into her music resonated with fans, creating a deeper connection beyond the melodies.
Studio Brat
May 2019 marked a pivotal moment in Simi’s career as she bid farewell to X3M Music, choosing not to renew her recording contract. This decision led to the birth of Studio Brat, Simisola’s independent record label, launched in June 2019. The move represented a commitment to artistic freedom and creative control, allowing Simi to explore new avenues in her musical journey.
Musical Diversity
Simi’s musical exploration continued with the release of the EP “Restless II” in 2020. A sequel to the 2014 “Restless” EP, this collection showcased Simi’s evolution as an artist, offering fans a diverse range of sounds and emotions.
In 2022, she unveiled her fourth studio album, “To Be Honest” (TBH). The album, features 11 tracks. She also collaborated with artists like Fave, Deja, and Adekunle Gold adding depth to the album.
Her achievements with “To Be Honest” extended beyond the music. Her selection as the Spotify EQUAL Africa music program ambassador for July highlighted her influence in fostering gender equality and celebrating influential female artists. Simi became the second African artist, following Tiwa Savage, to be named an EQUAL global and EQUAL African artiste.
Artistic Range
Simi’s talents go beyond being a singer and songwriter. She is also a sound engineer, credited with mixing and mastering Adekunle Gold’s debut studio album, “Gold,” released in July 2016.
Husband and Kids
In a private wedding ceremony on January 9, 2019, Simi tied the knot with fellow singer Adekunle Gold. Their love story, spanning five years of dating, took a new turn with the arrival of their daughter, Adejare, on May 30, 2020.
Venturing into Acting
She embraced a new challenge in 2019, making her acting debut in Kunle Afolayan’s film “Mokalik.” The venture into acting allowed Simi to explore yet another creative avenue, expanding her presence beyond the music scene.
Discography
Her discography, from the debut album “Ogaju” in 2008 to the collaborative EP “Chemistry” with Falz in 2016, and the chart-topping “Simisola” in 2017, each release reflects a chapter in her growth as a musician. “Omo Charlie Champagne, Vol. 1” in 2019 and “To Be Honest” in 2022 showcase her ability to reinvent and stay relevant in the dynamic music industry.
Awards and Nomination
Simi’s impact on the music industry has been acknowledged through numerous awards and nominations. From winning Most Promising Act at the 2015 Nigeria Entertainment Awards to her recent recognition as Spotify EQUAL Africa music program ambassador, her talent and influence continue to be celebrated.
Academic Recognition
Her influence goes beyond the stage, extending to academic discussions. Adebayo, Abidemi Olufemi, delved into Simi’s impact on the millennial African woman in songs like “Love Don’t Care” and “Joromi” in the Ibadan Journal of English Studies (2018).
Net Worth
With a net worth surpassing 3 million dollars, Simi has secured her position as one of Nigeria’s most financially successful artists. You can find her on Instagram.