Little Rock, Arkansas – June 2025
In a heartfelt tribute to one of modern rock’s most iconic voices, the city of Little Rock unveiled a statue honoring Amy Lee, the Grammy-winning lead singer of Evanescence. The monument, located in the River Market District near the Arkansas Museum of Fine Arts, recognizes Lee’s contributions to music, mental health advocacy, and her enduring cultural influence.
Amy Lee, who co-founded Evanescence in the mid-1990s, rose to international fame with the release of the band’s debut album Fallen in 2003. The album, featuring haunting hits like “Bring Me to Life” and “My Immortal,” not only earned her a Grammy Award but also carved a permanent place for Evanescence in rock history. With her operatic vocals, gothic aesthetic, and emotional lyrics, Lee quickly became a generational voice and a role model for countless fans around the world.
The statue, designed by acclaimed sculptor Miriam Dawson, captures Lee in a powerful yet contemplative pose—head tilted slightly upward, microphone in hand, long hair cascading over her shoulders. The base of the monument features engraved lyrics from “Everybody’s Fool,” symbolizing her ongoing message about authenticity and inner strength.
City officials stated that the decision to honor Lee stemmed from her unique blend of musical brilliance and humanitarian efforts. Over the years, Lee has been a strong advocate for mental health awareness, using her platform to discuss grief, depression, and emotional healing. She’s also supported numerous charities focused on children’s welfare, domestic violence survivors, and access to the arts.
“Amy Lee is not only one of Arkansas’s most accomplished artists—she is a beacon of strength, vulnerability, and inspiration,” said Mayor Denise Franklin during the unveiling ceremony. “Her music gave a voice to the unheard, and her courage in speaking about emotional struggles has helped countless individuals feel less alone.”
The ceremony drew hundreds of fans, some traveling from across the country to witness the occasion. Many wore Evanescence T-shirts and carried signs expressing gratitude. Lee herself attended the event, visibly moved as she addressed the crowd.
“I never imagined something like this in my wildest dreams,” she said. “This statue isn’t just about me—it’s about the power of emotion, the strength in vulnerability, and the way music can heal us all. I share this honor with my bandmates, my fans, and anyone who’s ever felt broken and found strength through art.”
In addition to the statue, a small interactive exhibit will open nearby later this year, featuring memorabilia, personal letters from fans, and behind-the-scenes footage from Evanescence’s early days. The installation aims to inspire future generations of musicians and creators.
Amy Lee’s legacy continues to grow beyond music. From orchestral collaborations and film soundtracks to her passionate activism, she remains a multifaceted artist who defies genre and expectation. This statue stands not only as a symbol of her career—but as a testament to how one woman’s voice can echo around the world.
