Happy International Women's Day! On this day we celebrate the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women around the world.

Wonder Women are everywhere. I have been very lucky to have encountered and also worked with a lot of incredible women in my career.

My intention is to empower and encourage other women to believe in themselves and to not be afraid to work in a 'Men's World'. One of the most asked questions that I get in interviews is: 'What is it like to be the only woman in the band?'. I do get tired of that question after answering it for over 17 years.

I count myself fortunate to be in a work environment that respects women. The guys I work with are very respectful towards me.
There have been awkward situations but those were mainly with male fans that did not respect my privacy and touched my hair and tried to kiss me without my consent. There is a misconception about artists in general. If you buy their art, you are entitled to touch them to your liking, as if we are public possession. Which we are most definitely not. We have to keep in mind that there are also cultural differences. Some countries are way more touchy than others. This has lead to great misunderstandings about me. #Donttouchmyhair is still a thing after many years.

There is a rise of women in the metal scene and I am grateful for it. I salute all women around the world kicking ass as mothers, artists, politicians, doctors, teachers, scientists and all the other professions.


You all rock!

xo Simone


Photo by Lori Linstruth