News Summary
Nashville is mourning the loss of Lesly Somerville Simon, a prominent music executive and pioneer who passed away at the age of 52 after a seven-year battle with breast cancer. Known for her remarkable contributions to major country music labels, Simon worked with artists including Garth Brooks and Trisha Yearwood. A service will be held in her honor, celebrating her legacy in the music industry and her love for design and real estate.
Nashville Mourns the Loss of Music Executive Lesly Somerville Simon
Nashville has lost a shining star in its vibrant music scene with the recent passing of Lesly Somerville Simon. The beloved music executive and pioneer passed away peacefully on March 27, 2023, at the age of 52, after bravely battling breast cancer for seven years. Surrounded by her family at the time of her passing, Simon leaves behind a legacy that speaks volumes about her dedication to the world of music.
A Career That Melody Can’t Forget
Simon’s illustrious career in the music industry was nothing short of remarkable. She was most recently known as the General Manager for Garth Brooks’ Pearl Records and Trisha Yearwood’s Gwendolyn Records. Her talents didn’t stop there; she also held the important role of Vice President of Promotion at Arista Nashville/Sony Music Nashville, making her a key player in promoting some of the biggest names in country music.
With an extensive background in various roles, Simon truly knew how to hit all the right notes in the business. Her journey began at RCA Label Group, where she immersed herself in artist management, promotion, and marketing. Notably, she also took to the road as the tour manager for Mindy McCready, traveling alongside country megastars like Tim McGraw, Alan Jackson, and George Strait.
An Impactful Presence
During her time with Capitol Records, she contributed significantly to the success of a wide array of artists, showcasing her versatility. Artists ranging from Coldplay to Snoop Dogg benefited from her keen approach to airplay success. When she moved over to Arista Nashville/Sony Music Nashville, her ability to oversee promotions helped score over 40 No. 1 singles on both the Billboard and Mediabase Country charts. It’s no surprise that she was named one of Billboard’s Top 100 Country Power Players.
Simon didn’t just build careers; she launched multi-platinum albums and songs, including those for celebrated acts like Brooks and Dunn and Alan Jackson. Her work left indelible marks on the charts and in the hearts of country music fans.
Chasing New Dreams
In 2020, Simon decided to switch gears, embracing her passion for design and real estate. She co-founded an interior design firm, Colgan Simon, with Tyler Colgan. Alongside her new venture, she also started the residential real estate division of the luxury company Corcoran Reverie. This shift showcased her multifaceted talents, proving that her creativity knew no bounds.
A Loving Family Remembered
Nearby during her final moments were her husband, Robert, her step-children Max and Miller Simon, her mother Cindy Adams Somerville, and her siblings. She is also survived by her mother-in-law, Marcia Unger, and sister-in-law, Carrie Pizitz, along with other cherished family members and friends. Simon’s father, Thomas Taylor Somerville Jr., predeceased her, leaving a space in her heart.
A Celebration of Life
Nashville will honor Lesly Somerville Simon with a service scheduled for Monday, March 31, at Saint Luke’s Episcopal Church in Mountain Brook, Alabama, at 2:30 p.m. Following the service, there will be a visitation in Graham Hall. Friends, family, and colleagues are encouraged to attend as a way to pay tribute to this exceptional life.
In lieu of flowers, those wishing to honor Lesly are invited to make memorial contributions to the American Cancer Society or the Joe Lee Griffin Hope Lodge. Simon’s legacy will surely live on in the hearts of many as a testament to her indomitable spirit and love for music.
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Additional Resources
- Tennessean: Nashville Executive Lesly Simon Dies
- Wikipedia: Lesly Simon
- Music Row: Lesly Simon Passes
- Google Search: Lesly Simon
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Music
- Google News: Lesly Simon
