Sometimes there is little point in the riddles of poetry or metaphor. On Afro-pop favorite Simi’s latest single, she’s not interested in layering her message: “All I want is you / Though I don’t want too much from you, baby / You better show me that you love me / Just like I love you.” Up-front and honest, it is the song’s atmosphere that brings lovers into season. The harmonies displayed on the chorus reach ethereal heights, an almost unbelievable sense of euphoria. “All I Want” fits comfortably in the Afro-pop sound with its dancehall groove and synth-back rhythm, an intoxicating combination when paired with Simi’s love-drunk vocals. 

Having solidified herself in the Afro-pop space, Simi has continued to build momentum to be a worldwide voice: “All I Want” was released on her own label, Studio Brat, and she’s made it a priority to collaborate with other artists in her orbit - already this year she has worked with Candy Bleakz and Adekunle Gold. Last year brought the most eyes and ears to Simi as she’s experienced so far, with her spot on Alicia Keys’ “Keys to the Summer” tour in 2023 playing a part in Simi eclipsing 1 million monthly listeners to her collection of ballads and pop hits. At this point, it seems more to be Simi’s fate rather than just her determination to be the leader of Nigerian music’s emergence.