From YouTube instrumentals to a top-ten UK album debut
In short: Nemiah Emmanuel Simms didn't start in a studio; he started with YouTube tutorials. In just a few years, the Manchester-born rapper transformed from a bedroom hobbyist into a charting artist capable of securing cosigns from global heavyweights like Drake.
Nemzzz began his musical journey in 2018 by practicing rap over YouTube instrumentals. This DIY foundation eventually led to his first viral moment in November 2021 with the track "Elevate," which earned him a music video from GRM Daily. His trajectory was further accelerated by the song "8AM In Manny" in late 2023, which notably secured a cosign from Drake.
His musical DNA is deeply rooted in his family's heritage. Born in Manchester and raised in Gorton, Simms is of Jamaican descent; his father was a reggae and bashment singer, while both his mother and uncle were beatmakers. This lineage provided a rich backdrop for his evolution into the British rap scene, where he released his first mixtape, Do Not Disturb, in March 2024.
The commercial success of his career accelerated rapidly between 2024 and 2026. While "Do Not Disturb" debuted at number 17 on the UK Albums Chart, his second mixtape, Rent's Due (released March 28, 2025), reached a higher peak of number 6 on the Official Album Chart. This project also saw him collaborating with high-profile names like Central Cee and Kyle Richh.
By mid-2026, Nemzzz solidified his status as a major player in the scene with the release of his third mixtape, Locked In. The project featured an elite roster of guest appearances including Travis Scott, Latto, and Lil Yachty. His single "Dilemma," featuring Central Cee, marked his highest-charting song to date, peaking at number 39 on the UK Official Singles Chart.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: Nemzzz
- Also: Wikidata — Nemzzz · CC0
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