Inductee Insights: Nina Simone

While considered a jazz singer, 2018 Inductee Nina Simone was classically trained and cited Bach as an influence. Yet her nickname was “The High Priestess of Soul.” And in some ways, that astonishing, unclassifiable range has made it especially difficult to assess Simone’s legacy.

She recorded nearly forty albums between 1958 and 1973 in a wide range of styles. Folk songs, traditional ballads, spirituals, and children’s songs were all part of her dazzling repertoire.

Simone’s groundbreaking compositions “Young, Gifted and Black” and “Four Women” defined a songwriting voice that was proudly and defiantly black and female. Her 1967 hit “I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel To Be Free” spoke a simple message with powerful resonance.

[momellion]

Amen! Such a Beautiful woman with inspiring gifts of God she shared with us all. Absolutely Beautiful!

[puppetlady]

So inspiring. Thank you for this great snapshot of Nina's life. xo

[VDeuce]

Rock & Roll Hall of Fame - FORGET all of these newer artists UNTIL all of the original pioneers have been inducted! Link Wray, Dick Dale, Janis Martin, Jan & Dean, Connie Francis, The Shangri-Las, or Big Mamma Thornton! Without these pioneers, the bands in this video WOULDN'T exist!

[KSG__]

Hell yess, I love Nina, this is way too late

[serkin]

Yes, I will not rest until you do this with every artists