Before I became Mimi the Music Blogger – the outspoken journalist, cultural commentator, and fervent music enthusiast – I was simply Mimi with a WordPress blog called Music With M. A girl from London whose passion for music compelled her to keep writing about it. No significant platform. No support. Just WordPress, some determination, and a vision.
I never anticipated that years later I would be in the presence of the very artists I once wrote about: Will Smith, Usher, Naomi Campbell, Tiwa Savage. I couldn’t have imagined that my words would be acknowledged by SZA, Little Simz, Stormzy, Ghetts, Krept & Konan, Chip, Bashy, Dave, Central Cee, or that icons like Elliott Wilson and renowned awards such as the MOBOs, BET Hip Hop Awards, and even the Latin Grammys would recognize my name.
But beyond that, I didn’t foresee the struggle. I didn’t realize that entering this industry would be one challenge – remaining in it would be another. It all began with a single moment. Amelia Dimoldenberg provided me my first opportunity, bringing me on board to research for Chicken Shop Date. She later introduced me to JP at Complex UK in 2019, and that introduction changed everything. For the first time, someone recognized my potential and acted on it.
Since that moment, I’ve been fortunate to have women in this field who uplifted me. Tiffany Calver allowed me to co-host The Rap Show every other week on BBC 1Xtra and became a guiding figure in my life. Olivia Taylar, an A&R at Graduation Records, has offered subtle guidance and invaluable insights. Little Simz, always graceful and grounded, has uplifted my spirits during tough times.
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To the women who supported me, thank you.
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At 22, Tumisha Balogun and Georgia Afuape, the co-founders of TAG Agency, brought me structure. They helped me refine my voice, transforming scattered ideas into intentional storytelling.
At 24, Ella Bonai advanced my career, managing me with care and purpose while connecting me to opportunities I wasn’t even aware I was prepared for.
Then there was Julie, who helped realize the Renaissance Party, my very first event. A reminder that sometimes all an idea needs is someone who believes in it.
These women didn’t just support me; they invested in me. They recognized my worth. However, the truth is: being a Black woman in music and media is draining; especially when you have a strong voice, high standards, and ideas that don’t conform. There were years when I couldn’t recognize myself, feeling like I was in a constant state of fight or flight.
As a woman primarily covering rap – a genre deeply embedded in Black expression yet dominated by male authority – I’ve faced insults, threats, dismissals, and neglect. My ideas appropriated, my work reproduced without acknowledgment. The more prominent I became, the less protection I received. I learned early on that visibility doesn’t equate to safety; it can sometimes invite hostility.
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"As I advanced in my career in the music industry, I saw a lack of representation of women or minorities in organizations at the highest levels. It baffled me how white men were the only decision-makers in Black music." – Nadia Khan, Founder of Women in CTRL
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Nevertheless, I persevered. Not because it’s easy, but because I believe in my work. And I believe in us.
Black women in this industry are the unsung heroines. The curators. The creators. The connectors. The visionaries. Often overlooked but always vital.
This isn’t an article tinged with bitterness; it arises from gratitude. Gratitude for those women who remind me that a new generation is emerging right now; brilliant, prepared, and building.
So this is my tribute to the women who forged the path. To those still advocating for their place at the table.
I think of June Sarpong and Angellica Bell, whose mere presence on screen inspired hope within me.
I think of Clara Amfo, Nadia Jae, Your Aunties Could Never Podcast, Sheniece Charway, Dotty, Remel London, Zeze Millz, Olivia Taylar, Julie Adenuga, Shauni Caballero, Oloni, Joelah Noble, Henrie, Naz From Newham, Remi Burgz, Ada Enechi, and Christine Ochefu – women who aren’t just occupying space; they're reshaping it.
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"We don't receive enough recognition. But the work we do, even in silence, is important. Because someday, some girl will see it and think: that could be me." – Remel London, Presenter & Creative Producer
"The impact of our contributions to music, culture, and conversation is undeniable. Whether acknowledged or not, we shift the narrative." – Zeze Millz, Cultural Commentator & Host
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The statistics
Natalie Bergman has announced her upcoming album titled 'My Home Is Not In This World'. The songwriter has completed sessions for her third studio album, which was recorded
Sheffield artist Spielmann has released his latest single, 'Over It'. The songwriter delves into his emotions with this new track, an indie pop gem that resonates like a
Pop artist Erin LeCount has released her vibrant new EP 'I Am Digital, I Am Divine'. Now available, the EP showcases the 22-year-old's full realization of her aspirations.
A heartfelt examination of the closeness in life.
Evelia has released her complete EP 'On Your Roof.' The songwriter spent her formative years on the outskirts of Atlanta, listening to late-night radio during her teenage years. Captivated
Curtis Harding has released his latest single, 'There She Goes.' The American singer recently indicated his comeback, assuring fans that new music is on the way.
Before I became Mimi the Music Blogger — the opinionated journalist, cultural commentator, and unapologetically passionate music enthusiast — I was simply Mimi with