Simone Waddell joins Paul Cashmere at Noise11 to discuss her sixth album
Unforgettable, a collection of timeless songs reimagined through jazz, contemporary arrangements and deeply personal storytelling.
In this conversation Simone talks about the challenge of selecting songs from the American songbook and balancing classics she has performed for years with songs she had never previously sung. She explains why tracks such as Windmills of Your Mind, The Way We Were and Bridge Over Troubled Water made the final album and how she approached reinventing iconic recordings without simply imitating them.
Simone also discusses her ongoing collaboration with arranger Jim Kelly and her work with acclaimed Australian jazz pianist Paul Grabowsky, whose trio forms the musical foundation of the record alongside Philip Rex and David Jones.
A major part of the discussion centres around Simone’s mentor Kerry Biddell and the impact she had on her career. Simone reveals how Still Crazy After All These Years became both a favourite track and a tribute to someone whose guidance still influences her performances today.
The interview also explores Simone’s views on making jazz accessible, balancing improvisation with melody and the connection listeners have with songs that become part of their lives over decades.
Beyond the music, Simone reflects on her work running workshops and creative retreats and how helping others discover their voice has helped strengthen her own.
Watch the full interview with Simone Waddell and discover the stories behind Unforgettable.
https://greatmusiclivesforever.com/products/simone-waddell-unforgettable-preorder-cd
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