Jill Paone Simmons

Raised on oldies-station doo-wop, Jill began singing at an early age. She started in musicals, and then sang semi-classical music in a cappella choirs. She has been performing at wedding ceremonies since she was 15.

Jill owes her obsession with blues music to Eric Clapton and Pittsburgh radio station WYEP-FM. When the station aired Clapton’s version of “Tore Down,” the fire ignited and has been burning ever since.

Her hunger to know more led her to Bonnie Raitt, Joanna Connor, Etta James and other legendary blues artists, both contemporary and traditional. Soon, Jill was hanging out at Excuses on the South Side, eager to join the bar’s Thursday-night jam sessions. The crowds adored her as much as she adored them.

Jill has since served as vocalist for a variety of blues, rock and gospel bands. She now sings a mix of jazz standards, soul and blues tunes and rock classics with Soiree, which performs at upscale weddings and social events. The group has begun branching out to clubs, where Jill’s vocal strengths can be showcased to the public.

Jill loves performing the band’s ever-widening repertoire. You might hear an awesome version of  "Bridge Over Troubled Water," a playful "Ooh Papa Doo," a rockin' "Respect" or a new Bonnie Raitt favorite, "Gnawin' On It."  As a ”semi-member” of Bill Toms and Hard Rain, Jill sings backup on several of Toms’ originals, including her favorite from his This Old World CD, "Born on the Streets of Heartache.”

Jill has also contributed her voice and creativity to recording for several other local musicians including Tom Breiding, Jill West and John Vento.  Her knack for harmonies makes her a natural session singer. 

Jill also teaches vocal skills and choral singing to adults with physical and developmental disabilities at PA Connecting Communities. She is involved in many charitable organizations including the Association of Fundraising Professionals.  She's married to Jeff “Joffo” Simmons, drummer for legendary Pittsburgh-based band the Houserockers. She credits her husband with teaching her “everything” she knows about rock ‘n’ roll.

Whatever the gig, whatever the song, Jill will sing it with passion and knock your socks off with her range and power.

Jill simply loves music and is thankful for every chance she gets to share her God-given talent (no other explanation!) with friends, family and anyone who wants to listen.