About Simone

Simone's Story

Simone Waddell is a world class singer, songwriter, Founder of You Have A Voice and Ambassador for Messenger Rescue. As one of Australia's leading contemporary Jazz Artists, Simone is known for her mix of contemporary jazz and soulful melodies with groove while also performing genres such as pop, R&B, zouk, gospel, and classical. She has made a profound impact around the world throughout her career, inspiring countless individuals through the art of song and storytelling.

Simone has released five albums, three EP's, multiple singles, and has been collaborating since 2013 with the great Australian producer and jazz guitarist Jim Kelly, who is also at the helm of her newest and most exciting musical vision.

Introducing
you have a voice

professional vocal coaching

Simone is humbled and grateful to be involved as an ambassador for Destiny Rescue. Rescuing women and children from the illegal sex trade is one of the biggest needs facing the earth today and is something that is very dear to her heart.

Don't miss my latest release!

The Art of Collaboration

No more fear, love is here

‘KEEPING MY PEACE ON’

The Art of Collaboration is her fifth studio album and features a cohort of 60 of Australia's finest jazz musicians, including Tommy Emmanuel, James Morrison, Rai Thistlethwayte and many more. This album delivers a unique collection of Simone's original music and iconic Australian songs that have been reimagined in a contemporary jazz style.

Simone was the first jazz vocalist in Australian history to graduate from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music with a Masters Degree in Jazz Vocal Performance, while also being mentored by the late iconic Australian singer Kerrie Biddell, who profoundly impacted her early career. Simone was also humbled to win the Nescafé Big Break award for her musical achievements. As the first Australian to win a scholarship to the prestigious Berklee College of Music in Boston, Simone completed her music degree and launched her career in the U.S.A and internationally into Asia, Europe, and Australia. Simone has performed in countless well-known venues both solo and alongside other world-renowned musicians including Grammy nominated artist Taylor Dayne, Vince Jones, Kerrie Biddell and Cornell Thigpen.

Her collaboration “Breathe”, a duet with Cornell Thigpen (Mary J. Blige, Steve Nicks, Babyface, Isley Brothers) was released in October 2017. Other career highlights include touring with Grammy nominated artist, Taylor Dayne playing keyboard and singing backing vocals, as well as performing numerous times at Parliament House for State and National Government Leaders. Simone was also the opening act for Vince Jones, Australia’s well-known jazz singer for Australian Music Week.

Simone is humbled and grateful to be involved as an Ambassador of Messenger Rescue. Rescuing women and children from the illegal sex trade is one of the biggest needs facing the earth today and is something that is very dear to her heart. As part of her involvement, Simone wrote an EP with Signature Music Design called “New Day” which was released in 2017, with all proceeds being donated to the work of Messenger Rescue. As a world-class vocal coach, Simone has spent over 30 years empowering individuals to find their unique voice. She founded ‘You Have A Voice’, which are dynamic live vocal workshops designed for students of all singing levels and abilities. Additionally, she hosts inspirational retreats ‘Song of Your Life Retreat’ and ‘You Have A Voice Summit’. Simone has taught thousands of voice lessons, including working with the internationally recognised Watoto Children’s Choir in Uganda. Simone was one of twelve international authors who contributed to the book, The Attitude of Gratitude; A collection of stories inspiring its readers about the power of gratitude and how it can help anyone overcome life’s challenges. The book was released in 2020 and became a best-seller within the first month.

Simone has performed at many events and venues including:

  • Manly Jazz Festival in Sydney, Australia
  • The Devonport Jazz Festival Concert Series in Tasmania, Australia
  • The 5th and 6th Annual Bastille Festival
  • The Basement in Sydney, Australia
  • Bennetts Lane Jazz Club in Melbourne, Australia
  • Paris Cat Jazz Club in Melbourne, Australia
  • Doo Bop Jazz Club in Brisbane, Australia
  • Polytheatre, Haiya Theatre and Xinghai Concert Hall in China
  • And several well-known Japanese jazz clubs on her tours in Japan
Portrait photo Simone Waddell

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