Few artists can seamlessly transition through different musical landscapes as effortlessly as Little Simz. The British rapper, known for her ability to blend genres and break boundaries, continues to redefine her sound with the release of her latest single, “Young.” The track, a bold and energetic punk-inspired anthem, signals a new direction for Simz, as she taps into her rebellious spirit and taps out a whole new chapter in her career.
As she gears up for the release of Lotus, her highly anticipated album due out on June 6 via AWAL Recordings, “Young” arrives as a strong reminder of why Little Simz continues to stand apart in a sea of rapidly changing musical trends. The track is as much about reclaiming the vitality and spontaneity of youth as it is about celebrating aging with a defiant wink. In the accompanying music video, directed by the ever-innovative Dave Meyers, we witness Simz take on a role that might surprise fans accustomed to her polished, introspective aesthetic.
The video opens with Simz as an aging, yet undeniably fierce, punk rocker—bass guitar in hand, dressed in leather, and giving off undeniable grandparent-gone-bad energy. As she steps into the role of a “granny with attitude,” she channels the spirit of a younger version of herself. The transformation is playful, almost mischievous, as Simz embraces the notion that aging can be an empowering, liberating experience rather than a limitation. “I was able to tap into a character. That was fun for me,” Simz reflected in a statement. The video encapsulates the essence of “Young” perfectly, showcasing a side of Simz rarely seen on screen: unrestrained, unpredictable, and delightfully absurd.
This lighthearted departure from her previous works doesn’t mean Simz is abandoning the sharp introspection or politically charged lyricism she’s known for. Instead, it’s an extension of her growth as an artist and a person. In a world where pop culture often forces artists to stay in their lanes, Simz is rejecting conformity, proving that reinvention isn’t just possible—it’s necessary.
“Young” feels like a natural continuation of the singles that have preceded it: “Flood” and “Free,” both of which demonstrate Simz’s artistic elasticity. Each release feels like a piece of a larger puzzle, leading up to Lotus, an album that promises to be as multi-dimensional and genre-defying as the artist herself.
