Nina Simone – Mr. Bojangles

More about Nina Simone

Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon on February 21, 1933, in Tryon, North Carolina, was a towering figure in the world of music, known for her distinctive blend of jazz, blues, classical, and folk music. A classically trained pianist with aspirations of becoming the first black classical pianist, Simone's path took a turn when she started playing in nightclubs to fund her studies. It was here that she adopted her stage name, Nina Simone, to disguise her nightclub gigs from her family. Simone's music career spanned over three decades, during which she recorded more than 40 albums from the late 1950s into the 1970s. Her music defied standard definitions, and her work addressed themes of racial inequality, love, and liberation, making her a voice of the Civil Rights Movement. Notable hits like 'Feeling Good,' 'I Put a Spell on You,' and 'Mississippi Goddam' showcased her versatile vocal range and ability to convey deep emotion. Simone's outspoken nature and activism through music often put her at odds with the music industry and the public, but her legacy as a pioneering musician and civil rights activist endures. Nina Simone passed away on April 21, 2003, in Carry-le-Rouet, France, but her music and influence remain timeless, continuing to inspire generations.