The Southbank Centre’s Head of Contemporary Music, Jane Beese, praised Simz for her innovative and genre-defying approach, which aligns with the Centre’s artistic vision. “Little Simz’ ability to forge new ideas and inspire the next generation of creators is exactly what Meltdown stands for,” Beese said.
Little Simz, the 30-year-old British rapper, has been announced as the curator for the 2025 Meltdown Festival, set to take place from June 12 to June 22 at London’s Southbank Centre. This marks the 30th anniversary edition of the renowned music and arts festival, and Simz is excited to curate the eleven-day event, which will feature a variety of music, art, workshops, and more. The full lineup will be revealed in the spring.
In a statement, Simz, whose full name is Simbiatu Abisola Abiola Ajikawo, expressed her enthusiasm for the role: “I’m super excited to be the 2025 Meltdown festival curator! My team and I are preparing eleven days of art, music, workshops and more. So many incredible artists have curated this festival so it’s a true honour to be a part of it.”
The Southbank Centre’s Head of Contemporary Music, Jane Beese, praised Simz for her innovative and genre-defying approach, which aligns with the Centre’s artistic vision. “Little Simz’ ability to forge new ideas and inspire the next generation of creators is exactly what Meltdown stands for,” Beese said.
Mark Ball, Artistic Director at Southbank Centre, added, “Meltdown has become one of the most anticipated events of the music calendar, shaped by the curator’s imagination and artistry. Little Simz has become a powerful influence, and we are excited for her to bring her musicality and cultural passions to this milestone year.”
Simz, who won the 2022 Mercury Prize for Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, follows previous curators like Chaka Khan, Christine and the Queens, Grace Jones, and David Bowie. Known for blending rap with genres like reggae, blues, and jazz, she also gained recognition for her acting role in Netflix’s Top Boy.
