Please Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood

Nina Simone was a famous singer, songwriter, musician, and civil rights activist. During her career she recorded over 40 albums and received two Grammy nominations. She was a prolific artist who used her art to make a statement and who’s name we shall not soon forget.

Nina Simone was born Eunice Kathleen Wyman February 21, 1933 in Tyron North Carolina. She started playing the piano at the tender age of three years old. Of course, like most musicians, she studied the classical greats like Beethoven and eventually went to Julliard School of Music. Also like most musicians, Nina eventually found herself caught up in the rhythm of jazz and blues. Nina Simone’s classical training and God given musical talent enabled her to create music that was a fusion between multiple genres together including but not limited to R&B, gospel, and pop.

Nina used her art to speak out about the Civil Rights Movement. She wrote songs in reaction to the tragedies being faced by African Americans at the time. In the wake of the death of Medgar Evers she penned “Mississippi Goddam” and “Four Women” was written after the bombing of the church in Birmingham that killed four little girls.

Nina Simone knew the power in her voice and in her gift and the difference she could make. She believed in the beauty and the power her culture, African American culture and she wanted nothing more than to convey that in her art. She was “compelled to compel” her fans to be empowered and inspired!

So let’s take this day to remember the High Priestess of Soul, Nina Simone.

*****
How can you support TRE?
– If you liked what you read, leave a comment, “let’s start a dialogue”-Charles Barkley.
– I will be posting one BHM fact a day so please check the box in the comment section to receive email notifications.
– If you are feeling extra social, make an account and follow the blog. 🙂
– Lastly, please share with your friends! There is nothing better than the *free* gift of knowledge!