Simone Johanna Maria Simons (born January 17, 1985) is a Dutch mezzo-soprano singer who is the lead vocalist of symphonic metal band Epica.

Simons had an interest for music ever since the age of 10, and after listening to the Nightwish album Oceanborn at the age of 15, she began taking classical singing lessons. She sang in a choir for a couple of months in 2002, joining Epica soon after. She was previously in a romantic relationship with Epica guitarist Mark Jansen and also writes most of the band's lyrics. She is currently engaged to Oliver Palotai, keyboardist of the American power metal band Kamelot[citation needed]. Her favourite song to perform is Reprendo Mai Piu by Emma Shapplin.

In January 2008, it was announced on Epica's website that Simone is suffering from MRSA. This has caused Epica to have to cancel many of their shows. In February, her condition was getting better, but she was not completely recovered. In March, Epica toured with Amanda Somerville, replacing Simons for their US tour until May 11, 2008, when Simone performed again at their show in Bibelot, Dordrecht.

On May 7th, 2024, Simone released the single Aeterna from her long-awaited debut album Vermillion due out on August 23rd via Nuclear Blast Records. For the album Simone joined forces with long-time friend and collaborator Arjen Anthony Lucassen.

Releases:
Vermillion - 2024 Read more on Last.fm. User-contributed text is available under the Creative Commons By-SA License; additional terms may apply.