Buddy, born Simmie Sims III on September 10, 1993, in Compton, California, is an American rapper, singer, and songwriter celebrated for his genre-blending style and dynamic collaborations. Raised in a musical household, Buddy was exposed to gospel and soul early on by his father, a preacher and choir director. His love for performing took root at the Amazing Grace Conservatory, where he starred in musicals like The Wiz, Oliver with a Twist, and Dreamgirls before transitioning into music.

At just 15, Buddy’s talent caught the attention of Pharrell Williams, who signed him to his I Am Other label in 2009. Under Pharrell’s mentorship, he honed his skills and collaborated with major artists, including Kendrick Lamar and Miley Cyrus. This early exposure to the industry shaped his sound—an effortless fusion of West Coast rap, R&B, and funk influences.

Buddy’s breakout moment arrived in 2018 with the release of his debut album, Harlan & Alondra, a project praised for its rich storytelling and vibrant production. Featuring collaborations with A$AP Ferg and Khalid, the album established Buddy as a fresh voice in hip-hop. He continued to evolve artistically with Superghetto (2022), an introspective look at life in Compton, featuring T-Pain, Tinashe, Ari Lennox, and Blxst.

In March 2024, Buddy embarked on a new chapter with his third studio album, Don’t Forget to Breathe, released independently through Empire. With each project, he continues to push creative boundaries, solidifying his place as a standout force in contemporary hip-hop and R&B.