Nina Concerts

Experience Nina

Nina Simone (born Eunice Kathleen Waymon, February 21, 1933 – April 21, 2003) was an American singer, songwriter, pianist, arranger, and civil rights activist. Her musical career began classically, aspiring to become a concert pianist, but racial discrimination prevented her from securing a place at the Curtis Institute of Music. She transitioned to performing in nightclubs, adopting the stage name Nina Simone.

Simone’s style defied easy categorization; blending classical music with jazz, blues, folk, gospel and pop. Known for her powerful contralto voice and emotionally resonant performances, she interpreted songs with unique harmonic sophistication and often infused them with political commentary.

Key recordings include "I Loves You Porgy," "Feeling Good," "Sinnerman," and “Mississippi Goddam,” the latter a direct response to the murder of Medgar Evers and the Birmingham church bombing. She released over 40 albums during her lifetime.

A staunch advocate for racial equality, Simone used her platform to address injustice and became deeply involved in the Civil Rights Movement.