Best New Music: Little Simz “Young”

British rapper Little Simz embodies a young and carefree attitude on the aptly titled “Young” off her forthcoming album, Lotus, out June 6 via AWAL Records. Simz, still hot off 2024’s Drop 7, is already gearing up for what sounds like yet another worthy addition to one of hip-hop’s best catalogs in recent memory based on the singles released so far.

“Young” is the latest in that trend, with Simz’s vocals coming off like a hybrid between a ’70s punk frontman and Amy Winehouse, the latter of whom gets a shout-out in the first verse. “I was able to tap into a character,” said Simz about the song. “That was fun for me. It’s just a moment of light-heartedness.”

Over stripped-back drums that have become part of a tried and true formula for Simz, she reverts to an early 20s mindset with one-liners and ad libs that jump about as much as the aforementioned drums; her hash browns ad lib after mentioning English breakfast is a highlight.

Even though “Young” is lighter on its subject matter, Simz knows how to naturally flow – literally and figuratively – into heavier subjects, particularly in the second verse when she describes an encounter with a cop. Her ability to do that time and time again makes tracks like “Young” serve as a reminder of why she’s one of the best rappers today.

Visit Little Simz on Instagram and her website to stay updated on new releases and tour dates.

Listen to “Young” the new single from Little Simz below!