A Rockstar With a Heart for the Sea

Well, well, well, if it isn’t Simon Le Bon, now officially a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE). Known worldwide as the suave frontman of Duran Duran, Simon’s latest accolade comes with royal recognition. In a ceremony at Windsor Castle on November 12, Prince William himself pinned the honor on Simon, recognizing not just his musical contributions but also his charitable work with the Blue Marine Foundation and others. In fact, the band and their fans are so giving, there’s even a holiday!

“Totally unexpected and incredible,” Simon remarked, ever humble, as if he hadn’t spent decades being awesome. “It’s fitting that the honor is for both my music and the causes I’ve been lucky to support outside of the band.”

Simon’s Support of Ocean Conservation

While many rockstars are known for jet-setting escapades and public controversies, Simon has used his fame for far more meaningful purposes. A vocal advocate for ocean conservation, he has worked closely with the Blue Marine Foundation, an organization dedicated to preserving marine life. His passion for the oceans also extends to mentoring youth through the Tall Ships Youth Trust, where underprivileged young people in the UK are given the opportunity to experience life on the open seas. In addition, Simon has been involved with the Air Ambulance Service, underscoring his commitment to a variety of life-saving causes.

His efforts go far beyond the stage, showing that rockstars can be heroes in ways that leave lasting impacts on Planet Earth and its people.

Royal Connections

Let’s not forget Duran Duran’s longstanding connection with the British royal family. Princess Diana was a fan. In fact, she was such a fan that she once whistled at Simon from across a gym and shouted, “Nice legs! I’d recognize that bum anywhere!” 

We feel exactly the same way, Diana.

In a 2018 interview with The Times, Simon recalled, “She and I used to go to the same fitness club, Chelsea Harbour in London. One day, I was on the running machine when one of my shoelaces came undone. She wolf-whistled at me from across the room, and yelled, like a brickie.”

A Lifelong Passion for the Sea

Simon’s love for the sea is no mere passing interest. It’s been a lifelong passion, woven deeply into his personal and professional narrative. His early solo work, the track “Grey Lady of the Sea,” was recorded as part of the Whitbread Round the World Race documentary, inspired by his participation in the 1985 Fastnet Race, where he sailed on his co-owned yacht, Drum, which lost her keel and capsized.

The damage was immense but they were able to make the start line.

The song, which appeared on the soundtrack of the 1988 documentary Drum – The Journey of a Lifetime, was a collaboration with his friend Nick Wood.

The track immortalizes his experience on the high seas, further cementing Simon’s dual love for both music and sailing.

Today, Simon continues to support marine conservation efforts through his work with the Blue Marine Foundation, demonstrating that his love for the oceans is as deep as his musical legacy.

The MBE: Not Just a Fancy Title

An MBE isn’t just a trinket for a job well done; it’s a major honor in the British Honors system. Awarded to individuals who’ve made a significant impact in their fields—be it arts, science, public service, or charity—it’s a recognition of dedication, achievement, and lasting contribution to society. The MBE ranks just below the Commander of the British Empire (CBE) and the Officer of the British Empire (OBE), making it no small feat to earn.

Other notable recipients of the MBE include global icons like Adele, Ed Sheeran, footballer Steven Gerrard, and comedian Rob Brydon.

Of course, Simon’s MBE is just the latest accolade in a career chock-full of them.

Duran Duran has racked up everything from Brit Awards for Lifetime Achievement to Grammys, and even a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. In 2022, they earned their rightful spot in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

And while the band has claimed their place in musical history, Simon’s commitment to bettering the world offstage proves he’s more than just a pop icon—he’s a true humanitarian.

Grey Lady of the Sea Lyrics

You’ve whispered out loud

But your breeze doesn’t bend

We’re lying in the palm of your hand

No land we see, no place to be

The salt of your tears, adds stain to our hearts

There’s no long years can tear us apart

Our future’s entwined with your past

Because when we lie awake

We’ll be thinking of you.

Blow, grey lady blow your ships back home

Blow, grey lady blow your ships back home

Bravado is all but gone

And patience is down

You scared us and you’ve turned us around

But you won’t let us drown

Because when we lie asleep

We’ll be dreaming of you.

Blow, grey lady blow your ships back home

(Blow your ships back)

Blow, (Lady Grey, Lady Grey, come blow)

Grey lady blow your ships back home.

So answer us when we call

And say if you think we’re old

When life is so short we can’t stay long

But you’ll never be alone

Because one day we’ll return

We’ll be waiting for you.

Blow, grey lady blow your ships back home

Blow, grey lady blow your ships back home

Blow, grey lady blow your ships back home

Blow, grey lady blow your ships back home

Blow, grey lady blow your ships back home