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Simone (musician)

Also known as Cigarra, Simone Bittencourt de Oliveira

Born
Dec 25, 1949age 76
nationality
Brazilian

Career

Active 1973 – present

Biography

About Simone (musician)

Edited by the community

Simone Bittencourt de Oliveira, known simply as Simone, has a commanding presence with her brown hair and brown eyes. She is a Brazilian musician, a singer of Música Popular Brasileira (MPB), and has recorded over 30 albums.

Born on December 25, 1949, in Salvador, Bahia, she grew up as the seventh daughter among nine children. Her path to music was unusual; in her teenage years, she played professional basketball and moved to São Paulo to join the women's national team. She studied physical education in Santos. Her musical career began serendipitously when a friend and guitar teacher, Elodir Barontini, invited her to sing at a dinner with Odeon's marketing manager. That encounter led to an offer to record four albums at once. Her debut album, recorded in October 1972, was low-budget and initially circulated among friends and artists, later re-edited with a new cover. In March 1973, she was introduced to the press at the Hilton Hotel in São Paulo, followed by TV appearances that gradually built her success.

Simone's transition from sports to stage was supported by her father, an amateur opera singer, and her mother, a pianist. Early on, she was invited on an international tour organized by producer Hermínio Bello de Carvalho. They performed at the Olympia in Paris, Madison Square Garden in New York, and in Belgium and Canada, releasing albums like Brasil Export 73 and Festa Brasil. She has been active since 1973 and continues to be recognized. Her Instagram following exceeds half a million.

Her career spans over five decades, starting when she was around 23. She is a prominent figure in Brazilian music, with a distinctive style that blends tradition and emotion. Her voice remains a hallmark of her artistry. She has built a legacy as one of Brazil's most beloved singers. Her early life in a large family and her athletic background have shaped her disciplined approach to her craft. Today, she remains an influential artist, with a loyal fan base. Her music continues to resonate with audiences, reflecting her enduring appeal. She is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Her journey from basketball to the stage is a remarkable story. She has performed on some of the world's most prestigious stages. Her discography is extensive, and her influence is profound. She is a true icon of Brazilian culture. Her legacy is secure, and her music lives on.

Record

Profile details

Personal

Years Active
1973-present (started around 23 years old; 53 years active)
Birthplace
Salvador, Bahia, Brazil
Ethnicity
Latin

Body

Hair Color
Brown
Eye Color
Brown

Extra

Instagram Followers
516k (as of April 2026)

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Frequently asked

What was Simone's career before music?

Simone was a professional basketball player in her teenage years and moved to São Paulo to join the women's national basketball team.

How did Simone get her start in music?

Her music career started when a friend and guitar teacher invited her to sing at a dinner with a record label manager, leading to a contract for four albums.

Where has Simone performed internationally?

Simone performed at the Olympia in Paris, Madison Square Garden in New York City, and in Belgium and Canada as part of an international tour.

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