Nina Simone (1933-2003) was an iconic American singer, songwriter, pianist, and civil rights activist. Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon on February 21, 1933, in Tryon, North Carolina, Simone’s distinctive voice and eclectic style made her a pioneering figure in jazz, blues, soul, and folk music.
Simone’s early musical training began with classical piano lessons, and she aspired to become a concert pianist. However, financial constraints led her to perform in clubs and bars to support herself. She adopted the stage name “Nina Simone” to protect her family’s reputation.
Simone’s music often reflected her activism and her experiences as an African American woman. Her repertoire encompassed a wide range of genres, from jazz standards to protest songs. She used her platform to advocate for civil rights and racial equality, and her music became closely associated with the struggle for social justice.
Some of Simone’s most famous songs include “Feeling Good,” “I Put a Spell on You,” “Sinnerman,” and “To Be Young, Gifted and Black.” Her distinctive voice, emotive delivery, and powerful stage presence captivated audiences around the world.
In addition to her musical accomplishments, Simone was an outspoken activist and advocate for social change. She participated in the Civil Rights Movement, performing at rallies and marches alongside leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr. and Malcolm X.
Simone’s impact on music and culture is immeasurable, and her legacy continues to inspire artists and activists to this day. She was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2018, cementing her status as one of the most influential and important figures in the history of popular music.
1. “Feeling Good”
“Feeling Good” is a timeless classic made famous by Nina Simone, though it was originally written by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse for the musical “The Roar of the Greasepaint – The Smell of the Crowd” in 1964. Simone’s rendition of the song, released in 1965 on her album “I Put a Spell on You,” remains the most well-known version.
Simone’s interpretation of “Feeling Good” is celebrated for its powerful vocals, stirring orchestration, and emotive delivery. The song’s lyrics convey a sense of empowerment and liberation, 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.” These lyrics capture the feeling of renewal and optimism, resonating deeply with listeners.
Simone’s rendition of “Feeling Good” has become an iconic anthem of self-assurance and resilience. Its soulful melody and uplifting message have made it a favorite among audiences worldwide, and it has been covered by numerous artists across various genres.
“Feeling Good” continues to be a timeless classic, beloved for its powerful vocals, inspiring lyrics, and infectious energy. It remains a testament to Nina Simone’s unparalleled talent as a singer and interpreter of song, solidifying her legacy as one of the greatest voices in the history of popular music.
2. “I Put a Spell on You”
“I Put a Spell on You” is a classic song famously associated with Nina Simone, though it was originally written and recorded by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins in 1956. Simone’s rendition, released in 1965 on her album also titled “I Put a Spell on You,” is widely regarded as one of the most iconic interpretations of the song.
Simone’s version of “I Put a Spell on You” is characterized by its haunting and sultry atmosphere, featuring her powerful vocals and soulful delivery. The song’s lyrics convey themes of obsession and desire, with Simone’s commanding presence adding to its allure.
Simone’s rendition of “I Put a Spell on You” showcases her ability to infuse a song with emotion and intensity, capturing the listener’s attention from the first note to the last. Her interpretation of the song has become synonymous with her unique style and artistic vision.
“I Put a Spell on You” has since become one of Nina Simone’s signature songs, earning widespread acclaim for its evocative performance and enduring appeal. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, but Simone’s version remains the definitive rendition, cementing her status as one of the greatest interpreters of song in the history of popular music.
3. “My Baby Just Cares for Me”
“My Baby Just Cares for Me” is a jazz standard written by Walter Donaldson and Gus Kahn. It was first recorded in 1930 and has been performed by numerous artists over the years. However, one of the most famous and definitive versions was recorded by American singer and pianist Nina Simone.
Nina Simone recorded “My Baby Just Cares for Me” in 1958 for her debut album, “Little Girl Blue.” The song features Simone’s soulful vocals accompanied by her piano playing.
Simone’s rendition of “My Baby Just Cares for Me” gained widespread acclaim and popularity in the 1980s after it was used in a commercial for Chanel No. 5 perfume. The renewed interest in the song led to its re-release as a single, which became a chart success in several countries.
Simone’s version of “My Baby Just Cares for Me” has since become one of her most iconic recordings and remains a staple in her repertoire. It showcases her unique vocal style and her ability to infuse emotion into her performances, making it a timeless classic in the jazz and blues genres.
4. “Sinnerman”
“Sinnerman” is a traditional African American spiritual song that has been recorded by various artists over the years. The most famous version was recorded by American singer Nina Simone.
Nina Simone’s rendition of “Sinnerman” was included on her 1965 album “Pastel Blues.” The song features Simone’s powerful and soulful vocals accompanied by a driving rhythm and intense piano playing.
“Sinnerman” is characterized by its haunting melody and lyrics that explore themes of redemption, salvation, and the consequences of sin. The song builds in intensity as it progresses, with Simone’s vocals reaching a fever pitch towards the end.
Nina Simone’s version of “Sinnerman” has been widely acclaimed and has become one of her most iconic recordings. It has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a classic in the realms of jazz, blues, and soul music.
5. “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood”
“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is a classic song that has been covered by various artists, but it is most famously associated with Nina Simone. Written by Bennie Benjamin, Gloria Caldwell, and Sol Marcus, the song was first recorded by Simone in 1964 for her album “Broadway-Blues-Ballads.”
Simone’s rendition of “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is characterized by its soulful and impassioned delivery, with her powerful vocals conveying a sense of vulnerability and longing. The song’s lyrics express the fear of being misunderstood and the desire for acceptance and understanding.
Simone’s interpretation of “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” has become one of her signature songs, beloved for its emotional depth and raw intensity. Her version of the song has been praised for its haunting melody, evocative lyrics, and powerful vocal performance.
“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” has since become a classic in the realm of popular music, inspiring numerous covers and interpretations by artists across various genres. However, Nina Simone’s rendition remains the definitive version, capturing the essence of the song with unmatched authenticity and passion.
6. “To Be Young, Gifted and Black”
“To Be Young, Gifted and Black” is a song written by Nina Simone and Weldon Irvine. It was originally released by Simone on her 1970 album of the same name.
The song “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” became an anthem for the civil rights movement and a celebration of African-American identity and empowerment. It was inspired by the play of the same name written by Simone’s close friend Lorraine Hansberry, who was the first African-American playwright to have a play performed on Broadway.
The lyrics of the song celebrate the beauty, strength, and resilience of black culture and express pride in one’s heritage. The phrase “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” became a rallying cry for African-Americans striving for equality and recognition.
Nina Simone’s powerful rendition of “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” remains one of her most iconic recordings. The song’s message of empowerment and self-affirmation continues to resonate with listeners around the world, making it a timeless classic in the realm of soul and jazz music.
7. “Mississippi Goddam”
“Mississippi Goddam” is a powerful and iconic protest song written and performed by Nina Simone. Released in 1964 during the heart of the Civil Rights Movement, the song became an anthem for the struggle against racial injustice and inequality.
The song was a response to the murder of civil rights activist Medgar Evers in Mississippi and the bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, which killed four young African American girls. It was also a reaction to the ongoing segregation and violence against Black people in the southern United States.
In “Mississippi Goddam,” Simone expresses her frustration, anger, and outrage over the injustices faced by African Americans. The lyrics confront the racism and oppression of the time, with Simone calling out the complicity of politicians, the media, and society in perpetuating discrimination and violence.
The song’s title is a provocative and defiant expression of Simone’s disillusionment with the state of Mississippi and the broader systemic issues of racism and injustice in America. It became a rallying cry for the Civil Rights Movement, inspiring activists and protesters across the country.
“Mississippi Goddam” remains one of Nina Simone’s most powerful and enduring songs, celebrated for its fearless activism, uncompromising message, and soul-stirring performance. It stands as a testament to Simone’s role as a musical pioneer and social justice advocate, and its relevance continues to resonate in the fight for equality and human rights today.
8. “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life”
“Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” is a song from the musical “Hair,” with lyrics by James Rado and Gerome Ragni and music by Galt MacDermot. It was first performed as part of the rock musical “Hair” in 1967.
Nina Simone recorded her own version of “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” for her 1968 album “Nuff Said!” The song features a fusion of jazz, blues, and soul elements and is known for its powerful and emotive delivery.
The lyrics of “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” contrast the negative aspects of life, including poverty, loneliness, and discrimination, with the positive aspects of life, such as love, freedom, and self-worth. The song celebrates the resilience of the human spirit and the ability to find joy and meaning in the face of adversity.
Nina Simone’s rendition of “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” became one of her signature songs and a staple of her live performances. Its message of hope and empowerment continues to resonate with audiences today, making it a timeless classic in the realms of soul and jazz music.
9. “I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl”
“I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl” is a sultry and seductive song performed by Nina Simone. Written by Simone along with her brother, Gene Forrell, and the legendary blues singer and songwriter, Jessie Mae Robinson, the song was first released on Simone’s 1967 album, “Nina Simone Sings the Blues.”
The song’s lyrics are metaphorical, using the desire for “sugar” as a euphemism for longing and sensuality. In the song, Simone’s rich and soulful voice croons about her desire for affection and intimacy, as she seeks to satisfy her emotional and physical needs.
“I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl” is characterized by its slow, bluesy tempo and Simone’s emotive delivery. The song’s minimalist arrangement allows Simone’s vocals to take center stage, drawing listeners into the intimate and evocative atmosphere of the music.
Simone’s interpretation of “I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl” is celebrated for its raw sensuality and emotional depth. Her performance captures the longing and desire expressed in the lyrics, making the song a standout track in her extensive discography.
Over the years, “I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl” has become one of Nina Simone’s most beloved and enduring songs, beloved by fans for its timeless appeal and soulful expression of desire. It remains a classic in the realm of blues and jazz music, showcasing Simone’s talent as a vocalist and interpreter of song.
10. “Wild Is the Wind”
“Wild Is the Wind” is a song written by Dimitri Tiomkin and Ned Washington, originally recorded for the 1957 film of the same name. It was performed by Johnny Mathis for the film’s soundtrack.
However, Nina Simone’s version of “Wild Is the Wind” is perhaps the most well-known rendition. Simone recorded the song for her 1966 album of the same name.
Simone’s interpretation of “Wild Is the Wind” is characterized by her emotive and soulful delivery. The song features lush orchestration and a haunting melody that perfectly complements Simone’s powerful vocals.
The lyrics of “Wild Is the Wind” evoke themes of love, longing, and the unpredictable nature of human emotions. The song’s title serves as a metaphor for the intensity and unpredictability of romantic love.
Nina Simone’s rendition of “Wild Is the Wind” has become one of her signature songs and is often cited as one of her greatest recordings. Her emotional depth and vocal prowess shine through in this haunting ballad, making it a timeless classic in the realm of jazz and soul music.
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.
