Nina Simone was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist, renowned for her powerful and emotive voice and her eclectic musical style, which combined elements of jazz, blues, classical, and soul. Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon on February 21, 1933, in Tryon, North Carolina, she began her career as a classical pianist before transitioning to vocal performance.
Simone is known for her emotionally charged performances and socially conscious songs. Some of her most famous works include “Feeling Good,” “I Put a Spell on You,” and “Sinnerman.” Her music often addressed themes of racial injustice, civil rights, and personal struggles. Simone’s distinctive sound and profound impact on music and civil rights continue to influence artists and resonate with listeners today.
1. Young, Gifted and Black
“Young, Gifted and Black” is a song by Nina Simone, released in 1969. Written by Weldon Irvine, the track is an anthem celebrating Black pride and achievement, inspired by the play *A Raisin in the Sun*. It highlights Simone’s commitment to social justice and her role as a voice in the civil rights movement. The song features Simone’s powerful piano performance and emotive vocals, blending elements of jazz and soul. Its lyrics celebrate the intelligence, potential, and resilience of Black individuals, making it an enduring and influential piece in Simone’s discography.
2. Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood
“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” by Nina Simone is a soulful and poignant track from her 1964 album *Broadway-Blues-Ballads*. Originally written by Bennie Benjamin, Horace Ott, and Sol Marcus, the song expresses feelings of vulnerability and the desire for understanding despite past mistakes and misjudgments. Nina Simone’s powerful and emotive vocals bring a deep sense of urgency and sincerity to the song. The track combines elements of jazz, blues, and soul, showcasing Simone’s ability to convey complex emotions through her music. “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” has become one of Simone’s most enduring and influential songs, celebrated for its emotional depth and timeless appeal.
3. To Be Young, Gifted and Black
“To Be Young, Gifted and Black” by Nina Simone is an empowering and inspirational song released in 1969. Written by Nina Simone and Weldon Irvine, the track serves as a tribute to the African American experience, celebrating the potential and achievements of young black individuals. The song combines Simone’s soulful and powerful vocals with a rich, uplifting melody. It reflects themes of pride, resilience, and the importance of self-worth. “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” has become an anthem of empowerment and pride, resonating with audiences for its heartfelt message and Simone’s passionate delivery.
4. Feeling Good
“Feeling Good” by Nina Simone is a classic and influential track first recorded in 1965 for her album *I Put a Spell on You*. The song, originally written by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse, features Simone’s powerful and emotive vocals, accompanied by a rich orchestral arrangement. The lyrics express a sense of liberation and renewal, capturing the feeling of breaking free from past troubles and embracing a fresh start. Simone’s rendition of “Feeling Good” is celebrated for its dramatic intensity and soulful delivery, making it one of her signature songs and a timeless anthem of empowerment and optimism.
5. Sinnerman
“Sinnerman” is a classic track by Nina Simone, released in 1965 on her album *Pastel Blues*. The song is known for its intense, driving rhythm and Simone’s powerful, impassioned vocals. It features a repetitive, hypnotic piano riff and incorporates elements of gospel and blues. The lyrics address themes of repentance and seeking redemption, with Simone’s performance conveying a deep sense of urgency and spiritual yearning. “Sinnerman” is often praised for its emotional intensity and has been widely covered and used in various films, commercials, and other media, solidifying its place as one of Simone’s most iconic songs.
6. I Put a Spell on You
“I Put a Spell on You” by Nina Simone is a captivating track from her 1965 album of the same name. Written by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins, the song features Simone’s intense and evocative vocals, delivering a powerful and haunting performance. The lyrics convey a deep sense of longing and possessiveness, with Simone’s rendition adding a layer of soulful drama. The track combines elements of jazz, blues, and soul, showcasing Simone’s unique ability to infuse raw emotion into her music. “I Put a Spell on You” is celebrated for its hypnotic allure and remains one of Simone’s most iconic and enduring recordings.
7. My Baby Just Cares for Me
“My Baby Just Cares for Me” by Nina Simone is a charming and jazzy track from her 1959 album *Nina Simone Sings the Blues*. Originally written by Walter Donaldson and Gus Kahn, the song features Simone’s distinctive, expressive vocals and a lively piano accompaniment. The lyrics reflect a joyful and carefree sentiment, celebrating the simple pleasure of being loved and valued by someone special. Simone’s rendition brings a playful and sophisticated touch to the song, making it one of her most beloved recordings. “My Baby Just Cares for Me” gained renewed popularity in the 1980s after being used in a Chanel No. 5 commercial, further cementing its status as a timeless classic.
8. I Loves You, Porgy
“I Loves You, Porgy” is a song by Nina Simone, first recorded in 1959 and featured on her debut album, *Little Girl Blue*. The song is a poignant and heartfelt rendition of a piece from George Gershwin’s opera *Porgy and Bess*. Simone’s version is celebrated for its soulful, emotional depth and her expressive vocal delivery. The track conveys themes of longing and devotion, with Simone’s performance capturing the song’s dramatic and tender qualities. “I Loves You, Porgy” became one of Simone’s signature pieces and remains a classic example of her ability to infuse jazz and classical music with profound emotion.
9. Mississippi Goddam
“Mississippi Goddam” by Nina Simone is a powerful protest song released in 1964. Written by Simone in response to the racial violence and injustices of the time, the song expresses her outrage and frustration over the murder of civil rights activist Medgar Evers and the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, Alabama, which killed four African American girls.
The track features a driving piano arrangement and Simone’s impassioned vocals, blending elements of jazz, blues, and gospel. The lyrics are direct and confrontational, reflecting Simone’s anger and disillusionment with the state of racial inequality in America. “Mississippi Goddam” became an anthem of the civil rights movement, known for its bold, unapologetic critique and its powerful call for social change.
10. Four Women
“Four Women” is a powerful Nina Simone song that portrays the lives of four African American women, each representing different experiences of racial and gender struggles. Aunt Sarah is a hardworking, oppressed figure; Saffronia deals with issues of colorism and identity; Sweet Thing is characterized by sensuality and hardship; and Peach suffers from violence and trauma. The song’s vivid storytelling and Simone’s emotional delivery offer a poignant commentary on societal challenges and personal resilience.
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.
