We’re excited to spotlight Fimi. Not in a “next up” way. More like, pay attention. For those who are really tapped in, this isn’t your first time hearing her name. You’ve been watching the build.
She likes to say she’s pretending to be a superstar until it’s official. But if you were at the last Greencamp Festival, you’d know we’re past pretending. She closed the stage with a captivating, theatrically charged performance. By the end of the night, the cheers said it all. She left the stage to a crowd that was loud, pleased, and wanting more.
Rap doesn’t always get the loudest love in Nigeria’s mainstream, and for women, the space is even narrower. For a while, if you tried to name female rappers in the country, you’d probably pause. Then Fimi stepped in with the flow, one listen and the presence is clear.
Then there’s the unique sense of style. Bold, a little dramatic, very intentional. You can tell she thinks about how she shows up.
In this Creator Spotlight, we talk to Fimi about growing up in Osogbo, choosing rap, building stage presence, finding her identity, and what it really feels like to carve your own lane as a young rapper and figuring it out in real time.
And if you’re just discovering Fimi, start with her latest single, “Superstarr.” It’s a very good start.
Q: How are you feeling stepping into this year? What’s the energy like for you right now?
I feel great. I feel the urge to stay consistent. I feel ready!
Q: Let’s start simple. What’s your full name?
Sharon-Rose Similoluwa Banjo-Ogunleye
Q: Where did the name Fimi come from, and why did you decide to use it as your stage name?
Fimí is one of my names, short for Adéfimímolúwasi.
I chose it because it’s very unique.
While other people might be Fimí, nobody else in the world is Adéfimímolúwasi.
(At least, I’ve not met any)
Q: You were born and raised in Osun State, specifically Osogbo. What was growing up there like for you? What parts of that environment shaped who you are today?
Growing up in Osogbo was quiet in some ways and deeply imaginative in others. It wasn’t chaotic like Lagos. You had space to think. Space to dream. Also, I grew up in the church so music was everywhere.
That environment shaped my storytelling. It forced me to create worlds in my head because there wasn’t constant external stimulation. I think that’s why my writing feels cinematic now.
Q: How would you say growing up in Osogbo differs from being raised in Lagos?
Osogbo is not as fast paced as Lagos it. Growing up there was quieter and less chaotic compared to how it would have been if I grew up in Lagos.
Q: Do you think being from Osogbo influenced your hunger, perspective, or approach to music in any way?
Yes. Definitely. When you’re not from the center of attention, you develop a certain hunger for it. I knew I was gonna get out of there at some point and explore the world.
Q: When did music first become something that genuinely interested you? Was there a specific moment or influence that sparked it?
Music has always been around me, but I remember watching the Disney film Let It Shine and memorizing every rap in it. That was a moment. I wasn’t just listening, I was studying delivery, cadence, confidence. Everything.
Before that, I used to play pre-recorded beats on the church piano and rap along. I even called myself “Jesus rapper” at some point. So it’s been there.
Q: When did you begin making music seriously?
I’ve been making and releasing music since 2017, but “seriously”? It was when I decided I wasn’t just talented. I was responsible for the talent. There’s a difference.
Once I understood that consistency is what separates gifted from great, I locked in.
That was later in 2024.
Q: Why rap? What drew you to that form of expression in particular?
I love how I get to be a poet on beats. There’s something very satisfying about it.
Q: Who were your early influences that made you feel like this is my lane?
Nicki Minaj, Weird MC, Olamide, mannnyy more tbh
Q: How would you describe your journey so far as a rapper navigating Nigeria’s music space?
Nigeria’s music space is vibrant but very pattern-based. As a female rapper, you’re either underestimated or hyper-scrutinized. There’s rarely neutral ground.
I’m learning to block out the noise because ’m building something that’s sustainable, not seasonal.
Q: At this stage, do you feel recognized and appreciated for your work? How has the support been from fans and from the industry?
I feel seen by people who are paying attention. And that matters.
The support has been organic. I don’t take that lightly. Industry-wise, I think people are watching. And sometimes being watched quietly is more powerful than loud applause.
Q: Who are your top five rappers of all time?
In no particular order
DOJA CATTTTTTTT, Kendrick Lamar, J Cole, Olamide, Weird MC
Q: The industry has historically been tougher for women, but in recent years we’ve seen more female artistes break through. Even though the ratio is still uneven, would you say things are improving?
Things might be improving but I’m not yet impressed
Q: In your opinion, what needs to change to make the path smoother for women navigating the music industry?
Gatekeeping needs to reduce. Investment needs to increase. And audiences need to stop treating female rivalry like entertainment.
We need more rooms where women are collaborators, not comparisons.
Q: Your stage presence is powerful and intentional. After closing out the stage at the Greencamp Festival, campers voted you one of the best performers of the night. How important is performance to you as part of your artistry?
They did?? Awww, that’s so heartwarming!
For me, performance is really important. It’s a huge part of the craft. It’s how I get to physically express the music to an audience, so I take it very seriously.
Q: What would you describe as your best stage performance so far, and why?
I can’t pick one. There’s always one element that makes me like each one.
Q: When people describe your sound and style, names like Doechii and Doja Cat often come up. Do you feel any connection to those comparisons? Do they resonate with you creatively?
I understand the comparisons. Doechii and Doja Cat both blend theatrics with music. I love performers who are intentional about visuals and character.
But I’m building Fimi. Comparisons are compliments, but identity is the goal.
Q: Let’s talk about your personal style. What’s the theme or idea behind your fashion choices?
Most times, my fashion choices reflect things I used to wear growing up… church outfits like blazers, hats, fascinators etc, traditional attires.
Honestly, I’m just having fun with fashion items.
Q: If you had to describe your style in three words, what would they be?
Alternative, Creative, Cunt!
Q: You dropped your first single of the year, Superstar. What’s in the rollout for you this year? What can listeners expect?
Listeners can expect new music very frequently! Prepared to be sick of me.
Q: Are you currently signed to a label? And are you open to signing if the right opportunity presents itself?
I’m currently pushing independently. But yes, I’m open to signing opportunities.
Q: What is the long-term dream for Fimi? When everything is said and done, what do you want your name to represent?
Global Superstar. Inspiration to thousands of people.
Q: What advice would you give to anyone trying to navigate the industry as a rapper, especially young women stepping into the space?
I say this to myself too; Don’t dilute yourself to be acceptable. Skill up. Study the craft. Protect your business. And don’t let the internet rush your timeline.
The industry respects stamina.
