Nina Simone

About

Nina Simone, known as the "High Priestess of Soul," was a multifaceted artist who blended jazz, blues, gospel, folk, pop, and classical music. Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon on February 21, 1933, in Tryon, North Carolina, she began playing piano at three and later studied classical music at Juilliard. Simone adopted her stage name to pursue a career in jazz and blues, eventually releasing her debut album Little Girl Blue in 1959, which included the hit single "I Loves You, Porgy." Simone became a prominent voice in the Civil Rights Movement, using her music to advocate for social justice with songs like "Mississippi Goddam" and "To Be Young, Gifted and Black." Her legacy extends beyond music; she inspired generations of artists and activists. Despite facing challenges, including mental health issues and financial struggles, Simone continued to perform and record music until her death on April 21, 2003, in France. Her autobiography, I Put a Spell on You, was published in 1991, cementing her impact on music and civil rights history.