Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon, was an American singer, songwriter, musician, and civil rights activist. She was born on February 21, 1933, in Tryon, North Carolina, and began her musical career as a classical pianist. Simone rose to fame in the late 1950s and 1960s with her distinctive voice and eclectic style, which blended elements of jazz, blues, gospel, and classical music.
Simone’s music often addressed social and political issues, and she became known for her outspoken activism during the civil rights movement. Some of her most famous songs include “Feeling Good,” “I Put a Spell on You,” “Sinnerman,” and “To Be Young, Gifted and Black.” Simone’s music is characterized by its emotional intensity, powerful vocals, and introspective lyrics.
In addition to her music career, Simone was a prominent civil rights activist and often used her platform to advocate for racial equality and social justice. She was influenced by figures such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X, and her songs often reflected her commitment to the struggle for civil rights.
Nina Simone’s impact on music and activism continues to be celebrated today, and she is remembered as one of the greatest and most influential artists of the 20th century. She passed away on April 21, 2003, but her music and legacy live on.
1. Young, Gifted and Black
“Young, Gifted and Black” is a song written by Nina Simone and Weldon Irvine. It was originally released by Simone in 1969 on her album of the same name. The song celebrates African-American pride and excellence, with lyrics that emphasize the strength, resilience, and talent of black individuals. “Young, Gifted and Black” became an anthem of the civil rights movement and a rallying cry for empowerment and equality.
The song’s title and lyrics were inspired by the play of the same name by Lorraine Hansberry, which was based on the life of Hansberry’s friend and mentor, singer and activist Nina Simone. “Young, Gifted and Black” has been covered by many artists over the years and remains one of Simone’s most famous and enduring songs. It has been praised for its powerful message of self-affirmation and pride in black identity.
2. Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood
“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is a song written by Bennie Benjamin, Gloria Caldwell, and Sol Marcus. It was originally recorded by Nina Simone in 1964 and has since been covered by many artists. Simone’s version is a bluesy, soulful rendition that showcases her powerful vocals and emotional depth. The lyrics express a plea for understanding and empathy, with the singer asking not to be judged or misunderstood.
Simone’s version of “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” became one of her signature songs and is often regarded as one of her best recordings. The song’s message of vulnerability and the longing for acceptance resonated with audiences, and it remains a classic in Simone’s repertoire.
3. To Be Young, Gifted and Black
“To Be Young, Gifted and Black” is a song written by Nina Simone and Weldon Irvine. It was first released by Simone in 1969 on her album of the same name. The song is an anthem of black pride and empowerment, celebrating the achievements and potential of young African Americans. The lyrics reflect on the struggles faced by black individuals in a society marked by racism and inequality, but also express hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
“To Be Young, Gifted and Black” became a popular and influential song during the civil rights movement, and it remains a powerful expression of black identity and empowerment. The song has been covered by many artists over the years and is considered one of Simone’s most important and enduring compositions.
4. Feeling Good
“Feeling Good” is a song written by English songwriters Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse for the musical *The Roar of the Greasepaint – The Smell of the Crowd*, which premiered in 1964. The song was first performed on stage by Cy Grant, but it was Nina Simone’s rendition that became particularly well-known.
Nina Simone recorded “Feeling Good” for her 1965 album *I Put a Spell on You*. Her version is characterized by its soulful and powerful delivery, with a stirring arrangement that builds to a dramatic climax. The song’s lyrics express a sense of freedom, empowerment, and optimism, 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.”
“Feeling Good” has since become a jazz standard and has been covered by many artists in various genres. It is often used in popular culture, including in films, TV shows, and commercials, and is celebrated for its uplifting and inspiring message.
5. Sinnerman
“Sinnerman” by Nina Simone is a powerful and iconic song that blends elements of gospel, blues, and folk music. It’s known for its haunting melody, gripping rhythm, and Simone’s impassioned vocals. The song explores themes of sin, redemption, and the struggle for spiritual salvation. Its driving tempo and intense energy make it a standout track in Nina Simone’s repertoire, and it has been covered by many artists over the years, each bringing their own interpretation to this timeless classic.
6. I Put a Spell on You
“I Put a Spell on You” is another iconic song by Nina Simone. Originally written and performed by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins in 1956, Nina Simone’s rendition is perhaps the most famous cover of the song. Her version, released in 1965 on her album “I Put a Spell on You,” is characterized by her deep, soulful voice and her unique interpretation, which infuses the song with a haunting intensity.
Simone’s rendition transforms the original blues-rock track into a haunting, almost mystical experience, with her powerful vocals conveying a sense of longing and desire. The song has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but Nina Simone’s version remains one of the most memorable and enduring interpretations, cementing her status as one of the greatest vocalists of all time.
7. My Baby Just Cares for Me
“My Baby Just Cares for Me” is a classic jazz standard written by Walter Donaldson (music) and Gus Kahn (lyrics), which was first featured in the 1930 Broadway musical “Whoopee!” Over the years, it has been covered by many artists, but it gained significant popularity through Nina Simone’s rendition.
Nina Simone recorded her version of “My Baby Just Cares for Me” in 1958, and it was released as part of her debut album, “Little Girl Blue.” Her rendition features her soulful voice accompanied by lush piano arrangements. The song became a hit for Simone in the mid-1980s when it was used in a commercial for Chanel No. 5 perfume in the UK. This renewed interest in the song led to its re-release as a single, which became a chart success.
Simone’s interpretation of “My Baby Just Cares for Me” showcases her ability to infuse jazz standards with her unique style, making it one of her most beloved recordings. It’s a timeless piece that captures the essence of romance and longing, and Simone’s emotive delivery adds depth and richness to the song.
8. I Loves You, Porgy
“I Loves You, Porgy” is a poignant jazz standard composed by George Gershwin, with lyrics by Ira Gershwin and DuBose Heyward. It was originally featured in the opera “Porgy and Bess,” which premiered in 1935. The song is a tender declaration of love from the character Bess to Porgy, expressing her devotion and willingness to stay with him despite the challenges they face.
Nina Simone recorded her rendition of “I Loves You, Porgy” in 1958 for her debut album “Little Girl Blue.” Her version is notable for its raw emotion and soulful delivery, which captures the essence of the song’s heartfelt lyrics. Simone’s interpretation became one of her signature songs and helped to popularize “I Loves You, Porgy” outside of its original context within the opera.
Simone’s rendition of “I Loves You, Porgy” remains a standout in her repertoire, showcasing her remarkable ability to convey deep emotion through her powerful vocals. The song has since been covered by many artists, but Nina Simone’s version remains one of the most memorable and definitive interpretations of this classic jazz standard.
9. Mississippi Goddam
“Mississippi Goddam” is a powerful protest song written and performed by Nina Simone. She wrote the song in response to the murder of civil rights activist Medgar Evers and the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham, Alabama, both of which occurred in 1963. The title itself is a provocative blend of “Mississippi” and “goddamn,” reflecting the frustration, anger, and defiance felt by Simone and many others in the face of racial injustice and violence.
Simone’s “Mississippi Goddam” is a bold and confrontational anthem that addresses the systemic racism and oppression experienced by African Americans in the United States. In the song, she condemns the racism and violence prevalent in the South and criticizes the slow pace of progress in achieving civil rights.
With its impassioned vocals, driving rhythm, and powerful lyrics, “Mississippi Goddam” became an anthem for the civil rights movement and a rallying cry for those fighting against racial injustice. It remains one of Nina Simone’s most iconic and influential songs, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to using her music as a tool for social change and activism.
10. Four Women
“Four Women” is another powerful song by Nina Simone, released in 1966 on her album “Wild Is the Wind.” Written by Simone herself, the song explores the experiences of four African American women, each representing different stereotypes and struggles faced by Black women in society.
The lyrics of “Four Women” introduce four characters: Aunt Sarah, Saffronia, Sweet Thing, and Peaches. Each character embodies a different aspect of Black womanhood, from the older, stoic Aunt Sarah to the lighter-skinned Saffronia, and the hyper-sexualized Sweet Thing to the defiant Peaches.
Through their stories, Nina Simone confronts issues of race, gender, and identity, shedding light on the complexities and challenges faced by Black women in America. The song’s haunting melody and Simone’s emotive vocals make it a poignant and thought-provoking piece, which remains relevant in its exploration of intersectional feminism and racial inequality.
“Four Women” stands as a testament to Nina Simone’s role as both an artist and activist, using her platform to give voice to the marginalized and advocate for social justice.
Edward Tomlin 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.
