Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon (February 21, 1933 – April 21, 2003), was an American singer, songwriter, musician, and civil rights activist. She was known for her distinctive voice, which combined elements of jazz, blues, gospel, and classical music.
Simone’s music encompassed a wide range of genres, including jazz standards, pop songs, folk music, and original compositions. She gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s with hits like “I Loves You, Porgy,” “My Baby Just Cares for Me,” and “Feeling Good.” Her music often reflected her personal experiences and her commitment to social justice, with songs like “Mississippi Goddam” and “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” becoming anthems of the Civil Rights Movement.
In addition to her musical career, Simone was also an outspoken advocate for civil rights and racial equality. She used her platform to address issues of racism, discrimination, and social injustice, and her activism often influenced her music.
Nina Simone’s legacy continues to resonate today, both for her contributions to music and for her advocacy for social change. She is remembered as one of the most iconic and influential artists of the 20th century, with her music and activism inspiring generations of artists and activists around the world.
1. Young, Gifted and Black
“Young, Gifted and Black” is a song originally written by Nina Simone and Weldon Irvine. It was released as the title track of Nina Simone’s 1970 album “Young, Gifted and Black.”
The song is characterized by its soulful melody and empowering lyrics, which celebrate African-American identity, pride, and resilience. It became an anthem for the Civil Rights Movement and a rallying cry for black empowerment and social justice.
“Young, Gifted and Black” was inspired by the play of the same name written by Lorraine Hansberry, the author of “A Raisin in the Sun.” The play explores themes of racial identity and the struggles faced by African Americans in society.
Nina Simone’s rendition of “Young, Gifted and Black” received critical acclaim and became one of her signature songs. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years and remains a powerful symbol of black pride and empowerment.
The song’s title has since become a widely recognized phrase, used to describe individuals who possess exceptional talent, intelligence, and creativity, regardless of their race or background. “Young, Gifted and Black” continues to inspire and uplift audiences with its message of empowerment and resilience.
2. Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood
“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is a song originally performed by Nina Simone, released in 1964. It was written by Bennie Benjamin, Gloria Caldwell, and Sol Marcus. The song has since become one of Simone’s signature songs and has been covered by numerous artists over the years.
“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is a soulful and emotive song that explores themes of vulnerability, longing, and the fear of being misunderstood. In the song, Simone pleads with her lover not to misinterpret her actions or intentions, expressing her desire for understanding and acceptance.
Simone’s powerful vocals and passionate delivery, combined with the song’s haunting melody and lush orchestration, make “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” a standout track in her repertoire. The song’s emotional depth and universal themes have resonated with audiences for decades, cementing its status as a classic of the soul and jazz genres.
“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” has been covered by artists across various genres, including The Animals, who released a popular rock version of the song in 1965. Despite the different interpretations, Simone’s original recording remains the definitive version and continues to be celebrated as one of her greatest achievements as an artist.
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 recorded and released by Nina Simone on her 1970 album of the same name, “To Be Young, Gifted and Black.”
The song is a powerful anthem of empowerment and pride, celebrating the strength and potential of young Black people. The lyrics express the importance of embracing one’s identity, talents, and heritage, despite the challenges and obstacles faced by marginalized communities. The title phrase “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” was inspired by a play written by Lorraine Hansberry, the author of “A Raisin in the Sun,” and it became associated with the civil rights movement of the 1960s.
Nina Simone’s rendition of “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” is characterized by her soulful vocals, impassioned delivery, and stirring piano accompaniment. The song’s message of resilience and self-affirmation struck a chord with audiences and became a rallying cry for social justice and equality.
Over the years, “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” has been covered by numerous artists from various genres, including Aretha Franklin, Donny Hathaway, and Bob Marley. It remains an enduring anthem of empowerment and inspiration, resonating with generations of listeners who continue to fight for justice and equality.
4. Feeling Good
“Feeling Good” is a song written by English composers Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse for the musical “The Roar of the Greasepaint – The Smell of the Crowd,” which premiered in 1964. The song’s original version was performed by Cy Grant in the stage production.
Nina Simone’s rendition of “Feeling Good” is one of the most famous and iconic versions of the song. Her recording was released on her 1965 album “I Put a Spell on You.” Simone’s powerful and soulful interpretation of the song became highly influential and is often considered the definitive version.
“Feeling Good” has since been covered by numerous artists across various genres. The song’s uplifting lyrics and triumphant melody have made it a popular choice for television, film, and advertising, and it has become a staple in popular culture.
Simone’s rendition of “Feeling Good” captures the essence of the song’s message of empowerment and self-assurance, making it a timeless classic that continues to resonate with audiences around the world.
5. Sinnerman
“Sinnerman” is a traditional spiritual song that has been performed by various artists over the years. However, one of the most well-known versions is by Nina Simone, released on her 1965 album “Pastel Blues.”
The song features a driving rhythm and powerful vocals, with Simone’s impassioned delivery capturing the intensity and urgency of the lyrics. “Sinnerman” is often characterized by its dynamic arrangement, which builds in intensity as the song progresses.
The lyrics of “Sinnerman” tell the story of a sinner trying to escape the consequences of their actions and seeking redemption. The song’s repeated refrain of “Sinnerman, where you gonna run to?” adds to its sense of urgency and existential questioning.
Nina Simone’s rendition of “Sinnerman” is widely regarded as one of her most iconic and powerful performances. The song has been covered by numerous artists in various genres and has been featured in films, television shows, and commercials, cementing its status as a classic of American music.
6. I Put a Spell on You
“I Put a Spell on You” is a song originally written and performed by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins in 1956. However, Nina Simone’s version, released in 1965 on her album “I Put a Spell on You,” is one of the most iconic and celebrated renditions of the song.
Nina Simone’s interpretation of “I Put a Spell on You” is characterized by her powerful and soulful vocals, accompanied by a bluesy arrangement featuring piano, drums, and horns. Simone’s haunting delivery and emotional intensity add depth and resonance to the song’s lyrics.
The song’s lyrics depict a narrator who is deeply infatuated with their romantic partner and willing to go to extreme lengths to keep them close. The narrator describes using mystical means, such as casting a spell, to ensure their lover’s fidelity and devotion.
Nina Simone’s version of “I Put a Spell on You” has become one of her signature songs and a classic of the jazz and blues genres. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years and has been featured in various films, television shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a timeless standard in popular music.
7. My Baby Just Cares for Me
“My Baby Just Cares for Me” is a jazz standard written by Walter Donaldson with lyrics by Gus Kahn. It was originally written for the 1930 musical comedy “Whoopee!” and performed by Eddie Cantor in the film adaptation.
Nina Simone’s rendition of “My Baby Just Cares for Me” is one of the most famous versions of the song. Her recording was released on her debut album “Little Girl Blue” in 1958 but gained significant popularity after being re-released in 1987 as part of a reissue campaign by Charly Records. The song’s upbeat tempo, jazzy arrangement, and Simone’s soulful vocals contributed to its enduring appeal.
Simone’s version of “My Baby Just Cares for Me” became a commercial success, reaching high positions on the charts in several countries, including the United Kingdom, where it peaked at number 5 on the UK Singles Chart. The song’s popularity was further boosted by its use in a 1987 television commercial for Chanel No. 5 perfume, which introduced it to a new generation of listeners.
“My Baby Just Cares for Me” has since become one of Nina Simone’s signature songs and remains a beloved classic in the jazz repertoire. Its timeless melody and playful lyrics continue to captivate audiences worldwide.
8. I Loves You, Porgy
“I Loves You, Porgy” is a song composed by George Gershwin, with lyrics by Ira Gershwin and DuBose Heyward. It was originally written for the opera “Porgy and Bess,” which premiered in 1935. The song has since become a jazz standard and has been recorded by numerous artists.
Nina Simone’s rendition of “I Loves You, Porgy” is one of the most famous interpretations of the song. Simone recorded the song for her debut album, “Little Girl Blue,” released in 1958. Her version is characterized by her soulful and emotive vocals, accompanied by piano and sparse instrumentation.
The song’s lyrics express the longing and devotion of the character Bess to her lover Porgy. Despite the challenges and hardships they face, Bess expresses her deep love and commitment to Porgy, declaring, “I loves you, Porgy, don’t let him take me / Don’t let him handle me and drive me mad.”
Nina Simone’s rendition of “I Loves You, Porgy” has become one of her signature songs and a classic of the jazz and blues repertoire. Her heartfelt delivery and emotional depth bring out the song’s themes of love, vulnerability, and resilience, resonating with audiences for generations.
9. Mississippi Goddam
“Mississippi Goddam” is a song written and performed by Nina Simone. It was released in 1964 as a single, with “Old Jim Crow” as the B-side. The song was written in response to the murder of Medgar Evers and the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham, Alabama, which killed four African American girls.
“Mississippi Goddam” is a powerful protest song that addresses racial injustice and violence against African Americans. In the song, Simone expresses her anger and frustration with the racism and discrimination prevalent in the United States, particularly in the Southern states. The lyrics condemn the racial segregation and violence that African Americans faced during the Civil Rights Movement.
The song’s title is a reference to the state of Mississippi and the word “Goddam” is used as a powerful expression of Simone’s outrage and defiance. “Mississippi Goddam” became an anthem of the Civil Rights Movement and a rallying cry for activists fighting for racial equality.
Nina Simone’s impassioned performance and the song’s bold lyrics made “Mississippi Goddam” a controversial and influential song of its time. It remains one of Simone’s most iconic and enduring songs, celebrated for its boldness, social commentary, and contribution to the Civil Rights Movement.
10. Four Women
“Four Women” is a song by Nina Simone, released on her 1966 album “Wild Is the Wind.” The song was written by Simone herself and addresses the experiences of four African American women, each representing different stereotypes and archetypes prevalent in society at the time.
In “Four Women,” Nina Simone vividly portrays the lives of these women, exploring themes of race, identity, and oppression. The four women described in the song are named Aunt Sarah, Saffronia, Sweet Thing, and Peaches, and each represents a different aspect of the African American female experience.
Aunt Sarah is depicted as a maternal figure who embodies strength and resilience despite the challenges she faces. Saffronia is a biracial woman who struggles with her identity and societal perceptions of beauty. Sweet Thing is a sexually objectified woman who is exploited and degraded. Peaches is a dark-skinned woman who confronts racism and discrimination.
Through “Four Women,” Nina Simone confronts the complex and multifaceted nature of African American womanhood, challenging stereotypes and giving voice to the struggles and triumphs of these women. The song’s powerful lyrics and haunting melody make it a standout track in Simone’s discography and a powerful statement on race and gender in America.
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.
