Nina Simone was an iconic singer, songwriter, and pianist whose music has influenced generations of artists. She was known for her unique style that combined elements of jazz, blues, gospel, and classical music, and her powerful voice and lyrics tackled issues of social justice and civil rights. With a career that spanned over four decades, Simone recorded numerous albums and left a lasting impact on the music industry.
In this article, we will be exploring the top 10 best Nina Simone songs of all time. We have curated a list of her most iconic and influential tracks, spanning her entire career, from her early jazz recordings to her later soulful ballads. Each song on this list represents a milestone in Simone’s career and showcases her incredible range as an artist.
From her stirring rendition of “Strange Fruit” to her soulful cover of “I Put a Spell on You,” Nina Simone’s songs are a testament to her artistry and her dedication to speaking out against injustice. Her music continues to inspire and influence artists around the world, and this list celebrates her legacy and the impact that she had on the world of music. So sit back, relax, and enjoy the top 10 best Nina Simone songs of all time.
1. My Baby Just Cares for Me
“My Baby Just Cares for Me” by Nina Simone is a classic jazz song that was originally written in 1930 by Walter Donaldson and Gus Kahn. Simone’s version, released in 1958, became a major hit in the 1980s after it was used in a commercial for Chanel No. 5 perfume. The song features Simone’s signature soulful vocals backed by a swinging jazz band. The lyrics express the singer’s joy and gratitude for her lover’s devotion, even in the face of her own imperfections. Simone’s expressive voice and impeccable phrasing perfectly capture the song’s bittersweet mood. The song’s catchy melody and Simone’s effortless performance make it a timeless classic that continues to be popular today.
2. Feeling Good
“Feeling Good” is a song that has become synonymous with Nina Simone. Written by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse, the song was originally part of the 1964 musical “The Roar of the Greasepaint – The Smell of the Crowd.” Simone’s version, released in 1965, has become a definitive interpretation of the song. Her powerful and soulful voice is accompanied by a jazz orchestra that gradually builds in intensity throughout the song. The lyrics speak of a sense of liberation and empowerment, with lines like “It’s a new dawn, it’s a new day, it’s a new life for me, and I’m feeling good.” Simone’s performance is a masterclass in vocal control and expression, as she effortlessly shifts from delicate whispers to powerful belting. “Feeling Good” has since been covered by numerous artists, but Simone’s version remains the most iconic and enduring.
3. Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood
“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is a classic song originally written by Bennie Benjamin, Gloria Caldwell, and Sol Marcus. Nina Simone’s version, released in 1964, is a hauntingly beautiful rendition that showcases her unique vocal style. The song features a slow, soulful melody that perfectly complements Simone’s smoky voice. The lyrics express the singer’s fear of being misunderstood by her lover and her plea for understanding. Simone’s intense and emotive performance makes the song a powerful testament to the complexity of human emotions.
4. I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free
“I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free” is a powerful civil rights anthem that was originally written by Billy Taylor and Dick Dallas. Nina Simone’s version, released in 1967, became an instant classic and an anthem for the civil rights movement. The song features a gospel-inspired melody that is perfectly suited to Simone’s soulful voice. The lyrics speak of the desire for freedom and equality and express the hope that someday everyone will be able to live in a world without discrimination. Simone’s passionate and stirring performance makes the song a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and uplift people today.
5. I Put a Spell on You
“I Put a Spell on You” is a classic blues song originally written by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins. Nina Simone’s version, released in 1965, is a haunting and intense interpretation of the song. The slow, sultry melody is perfectly complemented by Simone’s powerful and emotive vocals. The lyrics express the singer’s desire to win back her lover, with lines like “I ain’t gonna take none of your foolin’ around, I ain’t gonna take none of your puttin’ me down.” Simone’s performance is electrifying and captivating, making the song a classic that is still beloved today.
6. Ain’t Got No, I Got Life
“Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” is a powerful song that was originally written for the 1968 musical “Hair.” Nina Simone’s version, released in 1969, is a bold and empowering interpretation that has become a classic. The song features a catchy, upbeat melody that is perfectly suited to Simone’s soulful voice. The lyrics express the singer’s rejection of material possessions and social conventions, and her celebration of the simple things in life. Simone’s dynamic and passionate performance makes the song a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and uplift people today.
7. Sinnerman
“Sinnerman” is a traditional spiritual song that has been covered by numerous artists. Nina Simone’s version, released in 1965, is a powerful and intense interpretation that showcases her incredible vocal range. The song features a haunting melody that builds in intensity as Simone’s vocals become more and more frenzied. The lyrics speak of the singer’s fear of divine retribution and her plea for mercy. Simone’s raw and emotive performance makes the song a powerful testament to the human struggle for redemption and forgiveness.
8. Four Women
“Four Women” is a song that was written by Nina Simone and released in 1966. The song tells the stories of four different black women, each representing a different aspect of the African-American experience. The lyrics are a powerful and poignant commentary on racism, sexism, and the struggles faced by black women in America. Simone’s soulful voice is perfectly suited to the song’s emotional depth, and her performance is a masterclass in vocal control and expression. The song is a timeless masterpiece that continues to resonate with audiences today as a powerful and thought-provoking work of art.
9. Young, Gifted, and Black
“Young, Gifted, and Black” is a song that was written by Nina Simone and Weldon Irvine, released in 1969. The song celebrates the beauty, talent, and resilience of black people, and became an anthem for the civil rights movement. The song features an upbeat and catchy melody that perfectly complements Simone’s soulful voice. The lyrics speak of the importance of self-love, self-respect, and pride in one’s heritage. Simone’s dynamic and passionate performance makes the song a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and uplift people today.
10. Why? (The King of Love is Dead)
“Why? (The King of Love is Dead)” is a powerful and emotional song that was written by Nina Simone in response to the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr. The song was recorded live at the Westbury Music Fair in 1968, just three days after King’s death. The song features a haunting melody and Simone’s emotive vocals, as she asks the question “why?” in the wake of such senseless violence. The lyrics express Simone’s grief and anger at the loss of a great leader, and her plea for justice and peace. Simone’s raw and powerful performance makes the song a moving and unforgettable tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. and the struggle for civil rights.
Samuel Moore is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
