Nina Simone Sings The Blues, released on 1 January 1967, is a masterful blend of vocal jazz, jazz blues, soul jazz, soul, and blues, showcasing the incredible talent of the legendary Nina Simone. This 13-track album, clocking in at 37 minutes, is a testament to Simone's unique ability to craft a sonic landscape that is both deeply personal and universally relatable.
The album kicks off with the poignant 'Do I Move You?', a track that sets the tone for the rest of the record, which features a mix of original compositions and reinterpretations of classic songs. Simone's powerful, soulful voice brings new life to timeless tracks like 'My Man's Gone Now' from George Gershwin's opera Porgy & Bess, and 'The House of the Rising Sun', a traditional folk song.
The album also features 'Backlash Blues', a civil rights song with lyrics penned by the esteemed poet Langston Hughes, and 'I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl', a reworking of a Bessie Smith classic. These tracks demonstrate Simone's commitment to using her music as a platform for social commentary and her ability to draw upon a wide range of influences.
Throughout the album, Simone's expressive vocals and masterful piano playing are on full display, making Nina Simone Sings The Blues a must-listen for fans of jazz, blues, and soul music. With its perfect blend of classic and contemporary styles, this album is a powerful statement from an artist at the height of her creative powers. Released on the RCA/Legacy label, Nina Simone Sings The Blues is an essential addition to any music collection, and a testament to the enduring legacy of one of the most iconic voices in music history.
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