Photo by Tilla Arcé
In a darker and more dramatic turn than her previous release “Woman”, “I Love You, I Hate You” is still its own form of self-love in its maturity and vulnerability as Little Simz confronts her complex relationship with her father.
Opening with a cinematic, orchestral swell, the track quickly breakdowns into the bassline with a repeated sample of a man saying “I love you, I hate you” — acting as its own percussive instrument. Little Simz’ raps are rich and resonate in spite of revealing this private part of her life for the first time in her music. Each line is pure poetry as she chews, licks, and flicks each syllable with intention and intensity as she confronts her feelings in real time as they spill out of her.
While the song is about her absent father, it is really for Little Simz. Closing out the track with, “I’m not forgiving for you, man, I’m forgiving for me,” we’re left knowing that sharing this hurt has allowed Little Simz to heal. This is not just an act of forgiveness, but an act of self-preservation.
“I Love You, I Hate You” is off Little Simz forthcoming record Sometimes I Might Be Introvert, out September 3rd, 2021.
You can keep up with Little Simz on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter
