Award winning rapper Little Simz says she considered quitting music while working on her latest album following a split from her long-term producer. "When self-doubt seeps in, when you really lose confidence in yourself, it's not a joke," she told 1Xtra's DJ Target. "It'll have you questioning everything." Lotus, which dropped earlier, is the rapper's first release since she stopped working with her former producer Dean Cover, better known as Inflo, who she first met at a youth club in London. Earlier this year, she reportedly sued him for allegedly failing to pay her back after she lent him £1.7m. Inflo hasn't commented on the case. Simz told the BBC her new album explores the isolation she felt but is, at its core, about growth and moving on. "I've always been someone who wants to win with who I've come up with," the 31-year-old said. "I love the idea of doing things as a team, you come with your people. "Sometimes along the way, there's a parting, there's people going in different directions, and as I'm getting older I'm learning to be at peace with that and letting go and moving on. "My music's always been a space for me to speak about those things in a way that feels authentic and that's honest. "I think that's part of my healing." Lotus is the Londoner's sixth studio album and while she doesn't mention Inflo by name, tracks like Thief and Lonely seem heavily influenced by the breakdown of their relationship. Inan interview with Billboardin April, Simz revealed she'd started four albums with the producer, all of which had to be scrapped. And on Lonely, which she performed live in a special show at the BBC's Maida Vale studios on Wednesday, she opens up about how shelving them made her lose her confidence. She raps about "sitting in the studio with my head in my hands thinking, 'what am I to do with this music I can't write?'" Despite being a decorated artist,winning the 2022 Mercury Prizeand Brit, Mobo and Ivor Novello awards for her fourth album, Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, Simz says she still worried she wasn't talented enough after the fall-out. She told DJ Target she wasn't sure if she wanted to continue making music before recording Lotus, but the thought it could be her last album encouraged her to just throw everything at it. The album, she says, "feels very exposed... literally, here's my diary". Lonely, in particular, wasdescribed by NME as the "emotional epicentre" of the work. Simz said it was "one of the moments on the album where I was like, I'm just going to tell it how it is and leave it on the record". Simz now said Lotus is the work she's most proud of and that it's restored her self-belief. "This album has really helped bring me back to what my purpose is," she told Radio 1's Jack Saunders. "I definitely feel way more empowered to do what I'm doing, and more confident than I did when I was first making this record. "It's really helped me find my belief in myself again." The album name, Lotus, is taken from the flower renowned for its ability to survive in hostile habitats. Simz has said, like herself, it "learned how to thrive in muddy waters". "It's such a brilliant example of something coming from these conditions and being something so beautiful and overcoming," she says. "One of the themes [of the album] is growth but it's more so rising above it. "We all go through madnesses in life and we're all doing our best to figure out how to overcome things. "It's OK to sometimes feel a bit lost." BBC Newsbeat contacted Inflo's representatives for comment but did not get a response. Little Simz: Live at the BBC isavailable to stream on BBC iPlayernow. Listen to Newsbeatliveat 12:45 and 17:45 weekdays - or listen backhere.
Little Simz says recording new album was a journey of healing
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Little Simz Discusses Healing Journey Behind New Album 'Lotus'"
Bbc News
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TruthLens AI Summary
Little Simz, the award-winning rapper, recently shared her emotional journey while recording her latest album, 'Lotus,' which represents her first release after parting ways with her long-time producer, Dean Cover, known as Inflo. During an interview with DJ Target on 1Xtra, she candidly expressed the self-doubt and loss of confidence she experienced during this challenging time, revealing that there were moments she considered quitting music altogether. This split was further complicated by a legal dispute, where she reportedly sued Inflo for failing to repay £1.7 million she lent him. Although she does not mention him directly in her music, tracks like 'Thief' and 'Lonely' echo the emotional turmoil stemming from their professional relationship's breakdown. Simz reflected on how the emotional weight of scrapped projects with Inflo led her to question her talent and future in music, stating that she felt lost in the studio at times, grappling with her creative identity.
Despite these struggles, 'Lotus' emerged as a powerful testament to her resilience and growth. Simz describes the album as a deeply personal reflection, stating that it feels like a diary where she has laid bare her experiences and emotions. The album's title, inspired by the lotus flower, symbolizes her ability to thrive in adversity, paralleling her journey of overcoming challenges. As she navigates themes of isolation and personal growth, Simz emphasizes the importance of letting go and moving forward, acknowledging that everyone faces difficulties in life. Now, after completing 'Lotus,' she feels empowered and more confident in her artistry than when she began the project. She expressed pride in this album, stating it has helped restore her self-belief and clarified her purpose in music. Simz's journey through doubt to empowerment resonates throughout 'Lotus,' marking it as her most significant work to date, both personally and artistically.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article delves into the personal and professional struggles faced by Little Simz as she navigates the aftermath of a split with her long-term producer, Inflo. Through her narrative, she shares insights into her emotional journey while working on her new album, "Lotus." The story highlights themes of self-doubt, growth, and the importance of moving on, which resonate with many artists and fans alike.
Emotional Journey and Healing Process
Simz openly discusses her feelings of isolation and self-doubt during the recording process. By framing her struggles as part of a healing journey, she aims to connect with listeners who may have faced similar challenges in their lives. This narrative serves not only to humanize her experience but also to inspire others who might be dealing with their own setbacks.
Impact of Professional Relationships
The article sheds light on the complexities of professional relationships in the music industry. Simz's split from Inflo, a significant collaborator, has been a source of emotional turmoil for her. This aspect of her story emphasizes the fragility of artistic partnerships and the personal toll they can take, which may resonate with other artists in similar positions.
Themes of Growth and Moving On
By discussing the inevitability of change and the need to let go of past relationships, Simz presents a mature perspective on personal growth. This message may appeal particularly to young adults and those navigating transitional phases in their lives. It reflects a broader societal acceptance of change and the importance of self-care, which is becoming increasingly relevant in today’s world.
Societal Implications and Audience Reception
This narrative could foster a sense of community among fans who appreciate vulnerability and authenticity in art. The article may encourage conversations about mental health and emotional well-being, further promoting a culture of openness. The reception of her music, especially post-split, could influence public perception and expectations regarding her future works.
Reliability and Trustworthiness of the Article
The article appears credible as it references direct quotes from Simz and reputable interviews, such as those with BBC and Billboard. It presents a coherent narrative without sensationalizing her experiences. However, the omission of Inflo's side of the story raises questions about potential bias, as it predominantly focuses on Simz’s perspective.
Manipulative Elements and Hidden Agendas
While the article primarily seeks to highlight Simz's personal growth, it could be argued that it subtly aims to generate sympathy and support for her by emphasizing her struggles and achievements. This approach may reinforce her image as a resilient artist, potentially enhancing her marketability and connection with fans.
In conclusion, the article effectively captures Little Simz's journey of healing and growth, while also reflecting broader themes relevant to many audiences. It serves to inspire and connect, making it a valuable piece within the cultural landscape.