Little Simz is back with “Free,” the second single from her upcoming album, Lotus. Following the collaborative energy of “Flood” (featuring Obongjayar and Moonchild Sanelly), Little Simz strips things down to vulnerability, crafting a track that feels like a whispered secret shared between old friends.
Written as a poem before evolving into a full-fledged song, “Free” grapples with the push-and-pull of love and fear. Lines like “Love will never judge you because of your pain” cut deep and make you wonder if she’s reading your diary. Miles Clinton James’s production leans into jazz textures—think smoky horns and keys that swirl like cigarette smoke—creating a lush and intimate backdrop. The arrangement makes you pause, nod your head, and let the words sink in.
Lotus (out May 9) is shaping up to be Simz’s most personal project yet. The album’s title hints at the flower’s ability to bloom in muddy waters, a metaphor for resilience that mirrors her journey. Since 2022’s No Thank You, she’s kept busy: dropping the EP Drop 7, teaming up with Coldplay and Sampha, and even landing a role in Top Boy’s final season. But Lotus feels like a return to her roots—experimental, yes, but anchored in the kind of lyrical honesty that’s always defined her work.
The lead single “Flood” set the tone with its bass-heavy beats and stark visuals, but “Free” shifts gears entirely. It’s quieter, more contemplative, and all the more powerful for it. Simz has always been a storyteller, but here, she’s a confidante, weaving tales of growth and liberation that feel both deeply personal and universally relatable.
