Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon on February 21, 1933, was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, and civil rights activist. Renowned for her deep, expressive voice and eclectic musical style, she blended classical, jazz, blues, gospel, and pop. Simone’s songs often addressed social and political issues, making her a powerful voice in the civil rights movement. Her notable works include “Feeling Good,” “I Put a Spell on You,” and “Mississippi Goddam.” Despite facing significant challenges, including racial discrimination, Simone’s legacy endures as a pioneering artist who used her music to inspire and provoke change.
1. Young, Gifted and Black
“Young, Gifted and Black” is a song by Nina Simone, released in 1969. The track was written by Simone and Weldon Irvine and is inspired by the play of the same name by Lorraine Hansberry. The song serves as an anthem celebrating African American identity, pride, and empowerment, and it became a pivotal song in the civil rights movement.
Simone’s powerful vocals are complemented by a soulful arrangement that underscores the song’s uplifting and affirming message. The lyrics emphasize the importance of recognizing and nurturing the talents and potential of young black individuals, encouraging a sense of pride and self-worth.
“Young, Gifted and Black” has been covered by various artists and continues to be an inspirational and influential song. It stands as a testament to Nina Simone’s artistry and her role as a voice for social change and cultural affirmation.
2. Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood
“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is a song that has been performed by various artists, but it was first recorded by Nina Simone in 1964. Written by Bennie Benjamin, Gloria Caldwell, and Sol Marcus, the track blends elements of jazz, blues, and pop, showcasing Simone’s versatile vocal abilities and emotive delivery.
The lyrics of “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” express a plea for understanding and empathy, conveying the singer’s desire to be seen for who they truly are, despite their flaws and occasional mistakes. Simone’s version is characterized by its soulful intensity and poignant interpretation, which adds depth to the song’s message.
The song gained further popularity when it was covered by The Animals in 1965, transforming it into a rock classic with a more urgent and energetic arrangement. Another notable cover was by Santa Esmeralda in 1977, which turned the song into a disco hit.
Despite the different interpretations, Nina Simone’s original version remains iconic for its raw emotional power and the profound sense of vulnerability it communicates. It stands as a testament to her ability to convey complex emotions through her music.
3. To Be Young, Gifted and Black
“To Be Young, Gifted and Black” is one of Nina Simone’s most powerful and enduring songs. Written in 1969, the song was inspired by Lorraine Hansberry, the acclaimed playwright of “A Raisin in the Sun” and a close friend of Simone’s. The lyrics, penned by Weldon Irvine, celebrate the resilience and potential of Black youth, serving as an anthem of pride and empowerment during the civil rights movement. The song’s message of self-affirmation and hope continues to resonate, making it a timeless tribute to Black identity and the pursuit of equality and justice.
4. Feeling Good
“Feeling Good” is one of Nina Simone’s most iconic songs, originally written by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse for the 1964 musical *The Roar of the Greasepaint – The Smell of the Crowd*. Simone’s rendition, released in 1965 on her album *I Put a Spell on You*, transforms the song into a powerful anthem of liberation and renewal. Her deep, soulful voice and the dramatic orchestration convey a profound sense of emancipation and optimism. The song’s enduring popularity has led to numerous covers by various artists, but Simone’s version remains definitive, capturing the essence of feeling truly free and alive.
5. Sinnerman
“Sinnerman” is a traditional African American spiritual song that Nina Simone popularized with her powerful rendition on her 1965 album *Pastel Blues*. The song is notable for its length, intensity, and compelling narrative. It tells the story of a sinner seeking refuge and forgiveness, running from place to place in search of redemption but finding none.
Simone’s version of “Sinnerman” is characterized by its urgent tempo, driven by her relentless piano playing, clapping, and dynamic vocals. The song builds in intensity over its ten-minute duration, creating a sense of desperation and urgency. Her performance is both haunting and electrifying, capturing the emotional weight of the sinner’s plight.
“Sinnerman” has been widely acclaimed for its emotional depth and powerful delivery, and it has been featured in numerous films, TV shows, and commercials, further cementing its place in popular culture. The track is a standout in Simone’s discography, showcasing her unique ability to blend genres and deliver profound, impactful performances.
6. I Put a Spell on You
“I Put a Spell on You” is one of Nina Simone’s most memorable and haunting performances. Originally written and recorded by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins in 1956, Simone’s version was released in 1965 as the title track of her album. Her interpretation of the song is intense and emotive, blending elements of jazz, blues, and classical music. Simone’s powerful vocals and dramatic piano playing imbue the song with a sense of passion and longing, transforming it into a spellbinding declaration of love and possession. This rendition has become one of her signature songs, showcasing her unique ability to convey deep emotion and captivate audiences.
7. My Baby Just Cares for Me
“My Baby Just Cares for Me” is a jazz standard written by Walter Donaldson and Gus Kahn in 1930. Nina Simone’s version of the song, recorded in 1957 for her debut album *Little Girl Blue*, is one of the most famous and enduring renditions.
Simone’s interpretation of “My Baby Just Cares for Me” is characterized by her expressive vocals and sophisticated piano accompaniment. The song’s playful and upbeat nature, combined with Simone’s unique style, has made it a beloved classic. The lyrics describe a woman’s delight in her partner’s unwavering affection, emphasizing that he loves her for who she is, rather than for material possessions or societal status.
“My Baby Just Cares for Me” gained renewed popularity in the 1980s when it was used in a commercial for Chanel No. 5 perfume. This led to the song re-entering the charts, introducing a new generation to Simone’s music. The track remains a staple in her discography and a testament to her ability to infuse timeless songs with her own distinctive charm and artistry.
8. I Loves You, Porgy
“I Loves You, Porgy” is a song from George Gershwin’s opera *Porgy and Bess*, first performed in 1935. The lyrics were written by DuBose Heyward, with additional contributions by Ira Gershwin. The song is a tender ballad sung by the character Bess, expressing her love for Porgy and her fear of losing him.
Nina Simone’s rendition of “I Loves You, Porgy” is one of the most famous and beloved interpretations. Released in 1959 on her debut album *Little Girl Blue*, Simone’s version features her soulful and emotive vocals, accompanied by her delicate piano playing. Her performance is noted for its depth of feeling and subtlety, capturing the vulnerability and longing in the lyrics.
Simone’s rendition of “I Loves You, Porgy” became a significant hit, reaching number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and helping to establish her as a major artist. The song remains a standout in her repertoire, showcasing her ability to bring profound emotional resonance to her interpretations of classic material.
9. Mississippi Goddam
“Mississippi Goddam” is a pivotal song by Nina Simone, released in 1964 as a response to the racial violence and civil rights struggles in the United States. The song was written following the 1963 assassination of Medgar Evers in Mississippi and the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham, Alabama, which killed four young Black girls. Unlike typical protest songs of the era, “Mississippi Goddam” combines biting lyrics with an upbeat, show-tune style, creating a stark contrast that highlights Simone’s outrage and frustration. Its candid and direct commentary on racial injustice made it a significant and provocative anthem of the civil rights movement.
10. Four Women
“Four Women” is a song by Nina Simone, released in 1966 on her album *Wild Is the Wind*. Written by Simone herself, the song is a powerful and provocative exploration of the experiences of four different African American women, each representing different aspects of racial and gender identity.
The song’s lyrics introduce four women: Aunt Sarah, Saffronia, Sweet Thing, and Peaches. Each character embodies a distinct narrative and struggles shaped by their skin color, heritage, and societal roles. Through these characters, Simone addresses issues of racism, sexism, and the complex intersections of identity.
“Four Women” is notable for its storytelling and its blend of jazz, blues, and classical influences. Simone’s delivery is intense and evocative, bringing each character’s story to life with a mix of empathy and anger. The song has been praised for its bold commentary on social issues and its artistic depth.
“Four Women” remains one of Nina Simone’s most impactful and enduring works, highlighting her role not only as a musician but also as a powerful voice for civil rights and 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.
