East-London rising star rapper-singer and songwriter ShaSimone continues to build serious heat as one of the UK’s key next generation rappers with fresh new drop dubbed “Back To Sender”.

Following up her acclaimed “No Chaser” single a couple of months back, the rising heat-maker serves up an assertive afro-induced beat laced with her high calibre, flamboyant lyricism. Accompanied by authentic visuals filmed in Ghana, ShaSimone effortlessly delivers a series of catchy bars exclaiming “anything they wish me back to sender” over a brassy, hook laden jam that serves as a timely reminder of why she’s considered one of the hottest female talents in the city right now.

ShaSimone sat down with Wordplay Magazine to answer our infamous 10 Questions:

1. So tell me, how did it all begin? What sparked your love for music?

I started writing poetry when I was younger and it blossomed into me playing around with rhymes etc. As I got older, I started experimenting and playing around with instrumentals jokingly and to my surprise the feedback encouraged me to develop more and I've just kept going ever since.

2. Who are some artists that influence you and that you want to work with in the future?

I'd have to say J-Hus, I really resonate with his music a lot and have some of his songs on replay. He's defo on the top of my list of people I’d like to work with in the near future, i think our characters would shine right through the track to bring something very vibrant and uniquely different.

3. What are some of the problems you have faced making and releasing the music during the corona virus pandemic?

At the start of the pandemic going to the studio was a big hurdle as majority of studios were closed and even the ones that were open it was a bit difficult to get the necessary people in the session as we all had to stay indoors. On the plus side however, it gave me the opportunity to really present myself into the industry as everyone was at home and could take in something new. I remember my early freestyles on socials would get a lot of interactions so that used to keep me going to keep pushing on. Obviously, it has been a shame I haven't had the opportunity to perform yet due to the pandemic but this is something I've been practising and preparing for as I'd love to connect my music to my listeners by performing it live for them.

4. How would you describe your sound?

I'd like to think my sound is quite fresh and catchy vibes, you know that feel good music. Its very rap based of course but I like to keep it cheeky and focused on the raps so it's easy on the ears. Give me a heavy drum pattern and a groovy bassline and i'll throw it down!

5. What's your proudest moment to date so far as an artist?

My proudest moment to date is firstly actually releasing music - from executing the songs in the studio to making the videos and it being taken so well is something i'm quite proud of myself for doing, big love to my team also for that. Another proud moment is reaching 100K on my song No Chaser and then winning the Future Hitmaker competition led by the Girls I Rate organisation, proper proud of that one.

6. Do you have any advice for our readers who may be trying to play the mad game of music?

Just do it! Don't over think it, just have fun with the process and enjoy the creativity. Once you fall in love with the art, the rest truly does follow. I'd also encourage to not stay focused on the numbers especially in the beginning stages, but just trust and be assured your music is touching somebody out there.

7. Are there any artists on your radar at the moment that we should check out?

Yes yes I've recently just discovered a new artist J-Onyx, her freestyle is too brazy you guys should defo check her out.

8. What albums are on heavy rotation on your Spotify playlist currently?

I've literally just finished banging out Scribz Riley's Wish Me Luck album, gosh can't believe I was so late to the party on that album but it's amazing. Of course, J Hus The big conspiracy album and last but not least the new J Cole The Off Season album.

9. What do you like to do when you're not making music?

I like spending time with my friends and family especially going out for a cheeky meal and drinks. Also love going to the gym, ever since this pandemic the gym has also been a getaway for me to relieve stress, and stay in shape (can't let lockdown weight hold me lol).

10. Name Three things you can't live without when in the studio?

Definitely my phone! Water and every studio session need to have snacks!