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Simon Le BonBritish singer and musician, vocalist of the New Wave band Duran Duran
Date of Birth: 27.10.1958
Country:  Great Britain |
Content:
- Simon Le Bon: Lead Singer of Duran Duran
- Duran Duran
- Hiatus and Solo Projects
- Return and Comeback
- Later Career
- Personal Life
Simon Le Bon: Lead Singer of Duran Duran
Early Life and EducationBorn in Amersham, England, Simon Le Bon received an early education in acting and sang in his local church choir. He attended Pinner Secondary School, where notable alumni included Elton John. Le Bon worked as a trainee operating department assistant at Northwick Park Hospital, auditioned for a punk rock band at Harrow College, and appeared in television commercials and theater productions. In 1978, he traveled to a kibbutz in the Negev Desert in Israel, before returning to the UK to pursue a degree at Birmingham University's drama school.
Duran Duran
Formation and Early SuccessFounded in 1978 by John Taylor, Nick Rhodes, and Stephen Duffy, Duran Duran initially struggled with lineup changes and lacked a charismatic frontman. Le Bon was introduced to the band in May 1980 and impressed with his songwriting ability. Their composition "Sound of Thunder" featured lyrics penned by Le Bon. Over the next few years, Duran Duran released four successful albums: "Duran Duran" (1981), "Rio" (1982), "Seven and the Ragged Tiger" (1983), and "Arena" (1984), establishing themselves as icons of the new romantic movement.
Hiatus and Solo Projects
Exhausted from constant touring and promotion, Duran Duran took a break from recording and performing in 1985. Le Bon, Rhodes, and Roger Taylor formed the pop group Arcadia, releasing an album in 1985.
Return and Comeback
With a revamped lineup, Duran Duran returned in 1986 with the album "Notorious," followed by "Big Thing" in 1988. The addition of guitarist Warren Cuccurullo and drummer Sterling Campbell in 1989 further enhanced the band's sound. While their popularity waned in the late 1980s, 1993's "The Wedding Album" proved to be a major success, featuring hits like "Ordinary World" and "Come Undone."
Later Career
After a period of touring to support the album, Le Bon experienced vocal cord problems, forcing the cancellation of concerts. In 1995, Duran Duran released the covers album "Thank You," showcasing Le Bon's interpretations of songs by artists like Jim Morrison, Lou Reed, and Elvis Costello. Despite mixed critical reception, original performers commended the interpretations. Le Bon's performance of "Ordinary World" alongside Luciano Pavarotti at the "Children of Bosnia" War Child benefit concert remains a notable highlight.
Personal Life
Le Bon is a passionate sailor. In 1985, his yacht "Drum" capsized during the Fastnet race, resulting in his crew spending time in the water before being rescued. He is married to model Yasmin Le Bon, and they have three children.
