Top 10 Nina Simone Songs

Nina Simone Songs

Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon in Tryon, North Carolina, on February 21, 1933, was a musical force who transcended genres, time, and social movements. Trained as a classical pianist from a young age, she carried the precision of Bach into her performances while blending jazz, blues, soul, gospel, and folk into a singular, unforgettable sound. Her early aspirations to become a concert pianist were thwarted by racial prejudice, but this setback only fueled her determination and path toward becoming one of the most unique and politically outspoken voices of the 20th century. By the late 1950s, she adopted the stage name Nina Simone, and her 1959 debut album, Little Girl Blue, marked the beginning of a career that would span more than forty albums and touch every corner of the world.

Simone’s music became synonymous with the civil rights movement. Songs like “Mississippi Goddam” and “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” were protest anthems, while her covers of “I Put a Spell on You” and “Feeling Good” revealed her gift for reimagining and reclaiming songs with emotional depth. Simone’s artistry, coupled with her political activism, made her an iconic figure in both music and social justice. Her discography includes everything from her early hit “I Loves You, Porgy” to later works such as Black Gold and Baltimore, albums that continued to push the boundaries of genre and social commentary.

Nina Simone’s discography is a testament to her versatility and unmatched musical prowess, spanning multiple genres and eras. She debuted in 1959 with Little Girl Blue, followed closely by The Amazing Nina Simone and the live-and-studio hybrid Nina Simone at Town Hall in the same year. She continued her prolific output with Nina Simone at Newport in 1960 and Forbidden Fruit in 1961, before delivering the live masterpiece Nina at the Village Gate in 1962. That same year, she released Nina Simone Sings Ellington, showcasing her interpretative genius.

In 1963, Simone performed at Nina Simone at Carnegie Hall, followed by the live Folksy Nina and the powerful Nina Simone in Concert in 1964, which introduced political activism into her work. The mid-’60s brought pivotal releases like Broadway-Blues-Ballads, the emotionally charged I Put a Spell on You, and the haunting Pastel Blues in 1965. Her 1966 album Let It All Out combined live and studio recordings, leading into the iconic Wild Is the Wind. Simone continued to explore new territories with High Priestess of Soul in 1967 and Nina Simone Sings the Blues that same year. Silk & Soul in 1967 and ‘Nuff Said! in 1968, which featured both live and studio performances, expanded her influence even further.

In 1969, Simone released Nina Simone and Piano and To Love Somebody, showing her adaptability to contemporary sounds. The 1970 live album Black Gold included one of her most poignant Civil Rights anthems, “To Be Young, Gifted and Black.” She continued with Here Comes the Sun in 1971 and Emergency Ward in 1972, both of which reflected her deep engagement with global struggles. Her final RCA release, It Is Finished in 1974, closed an era before her late ’70s renaissance with Baltimore in 1978.

The ’80s saw Simone’s return with Fodder on My Wings in 1982, followed by Nina’s Back in 1985. She continued to captivate live audiences with releases like Live & Kickin’ (1985), Let It Be Me (1987), and Live at Ronnie Scott’s (1987). Her final studio album, A Single Woman in 1993, marked a reflective closure to a career that had already left an indelible mark on music history.

This article compiles ten of Nina Simone’s most essential songs, offering a window into the diversity and depth of her career. From “I Loves You, Porgy,” her first chart-topping hit, to “To Be Young, Gifted and Black,” a tribute to Lorraine Hansberry, each song captures a different facet of Simone’s genius. We’ve chosen these songs not only for their musical brilliance but also for their emotional and political resonance. Tracks like “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” and “Feeling Good” have become timeless classics, while “Wild Is the Wind” represents the pinnacle of her artistic expression, closing this list with what we believe is her most essential recording. Spanning her entire career, these songs highlight Simone’s ability to convey both personal vulnerability and fierce defiance, reminding us why her music continues to inspire new generations today.

# 10 – To Love Somebody

Nina Simone’s 1969 rendition of “To Love Somebody” is one of the most emotionally charged and soulful covers in her extensive catalog. Originally written and performed by the Bee Gees in 1967, the song became an instant classic in Simone’s hands, thanks to her powerful voice and the raw emotion she brought to every note. Featured on her album To Love Somebody, the title track highlights her ability to transform any song—whether her own or a cover—into a deeply personal and moving experience. This track, which was her second British hit after “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life,” solidified Simone’s reputation not just as a jazz artist, but as a genre-defying vocalist capable of reinterpreting popular songs with a depth unmatched by the originals.

Recorded in 1969, To Love Somebody was produced quickly in response to the success of Simone’s previous album, ’Nuff Said!, and was designed to build on that momentum. The album was produced by Stroud Productions and Enterprises, with Andy Stroud, Nina Simone’s then-husband, as the executive producer. The studio recordings took place in New York City, and the album featured an array of talented musicians. Though primarily a covers album, To Love Somebody demonstrated Simone’s incredible skill in taking well-known songs from various genres and giving them a jazz, blues, or soul twist, making them entirely her own.

Simone’s interpretation of “To Love Somebody” is striking in its contrast to the original. While the Bee Gees’ version leans toward pop with a melodic softness, Simone brings the song into the realms of soul and gospel, infusing it with a rawness that speaks to the deep longing and heartache in the lyrics. When Simone sings, “You don’t know what it’s like to love somebody the way I love you,” her voice carries the weight of unfulfilled love and yearning. Her phrasing, combined with the rich timbre of her vocals, turns the song into a desperate plea, making the listener feel the intensity of her pain. The stripped-down arrangement, featuring Simone on piano with a minimalist backing, allows the lyrics to shine through and showcases her vocal power.

Critically, Simone’s version of “To Love Somebody” is often celebrated for its ability to transcend genre. While the Bee Gees crafted the song as a straightforward pop ballad, Simone’s version is anything but. Her interpretation elevates the song, giving it an emotional depth that resonates deeply with listeners. The contrast between the gentle verses and the explosive chorus amplifies the sense of longing and the frustration of unrequited love, making it one of Simone’s most powerful performances of the late 1960s.

The song became a modest hit for Simone, reaching new audiences in the UK and further establishing her as a formidable force in both jazz and soul music. Though it may not have reached the same commercial heights as some of her other hits, it remains a critical favorite, showcasing her immense ability to reinvent a song with passion and authenticity.

“To Love Somebody” is a fitting start to this list of Top 10 Nina Simone Songs, as it embodies her extraordinary talent for reinterpreting songs in a way that made them entirely her own. Through this track, Simone communicates the anguish of loving someone deeply and not being loved in return, a universal theme that resonates just as much today as it did when she first recorded it.

#9 – Break Down And Let It All Out

“Break Down and Let It All Out,” a standout track from Nina Simone’s Wild Is the Wind album, is a stirring expression of heartache and emotional release. Written by the prolific songwriter Van McCoy, the song showcases Simone’s ability to convey deep personal pain and vulnerability through her voice and piano. Released in 1966 by Philips Records, Wild Is the Wind was compiled from various recording sessions in 1964 and 1965, featuring a mix of material that Simone had not yet released on her previous albums. “Break Down and Let It All Out” exemplifies the emotional intensity and rawness that defined Simone’s work during this period.

The song was recorded during the same sessions that produced much of Simone’s finest work for Philips, a label that gave her the creative freedom to explore a wide range of genres, from jazz and blues to folk and soul. Backed by a minimalistic arrangement, Simone’s piano and vocal performance dominate the track, allowing her to fully inhabit the song’s lyrics. Her voice, alternately soft and powerful, captures the turmoil of a person on the verge of emotional collapse. The line, “I’ve hidden my heart too many times before,” resonates with anyone who has tried to suppress their feelings, only to find that the pain inevitably rises to the surface.

Lyrically, “Break Down and Let It All Out” is a confessional piece about the end of a relationship. Simone sings about the futility of holding back her emotions and the need to finally confront the grief of lost love. The repeated refrain, “Break down and let it all out,” is both a command and a cathartic release, urging the listener to embrace their sadness and let go of the past. The song’s most poignant moment comes when Simone reflects on memories that once brought her solace: “All those old memories can set my heart at ease.” But as the song progresses, it becomes clear that those memories are no longer enough to sustain her, and she must confront the reality that the relationship is over.

In comparison to Simone’s cover of “To Love Somebody,” also included in this list, “Break Down and Let It All Out” shares a thematic focus on the pain of unreciprocated love. However, where “To Love Somebody” is marked by longing and a plea for love, “Break Down and Let It All Out” represents the moment when that hope is abandoned, and the singer is left with nothing but the need to release her sorrow. Both songs showcase Simone’s unparalleled ability to translate complex emotions into music, but “Break Down and Let It All Out” feels especially intimate, as if Simone is speaking directly to the listener from the depths of her heartache.

Wild Is the Wind as an album is often hailed as one of Simone’s masterpieces, with tracks like “Break Down and Let It All Out” contributing to its critical acclaim. Although the song itself did not chart as a single, its emotional resonance and powerful delivery have made it a fan favorite. Simone’s ability to convey vulnerability and strength simultaneously makes “Break Down and Let It All Out” an essential track in her catalog, capturing the raw, unfiltered emotion that defined much of her music during this period.

In “Break Down and Let It All Out,” Nina Simone delivers a soul-baring performance that remains timeless in its portrayal of loss and emotional release. Her voice, rich with sadness and determination, transforms this song into an unforgettable journey through heartbreak and healing.

#8 – I Love You, Porgy

Nina Simone’s rendition of “I Loves You, Porgy” is one of the defining moments of her career and stands as a landmark in her discography. Originally written by George and Ira Gershwin for the 1935 opera Porgy and Bess, the song is a tender plea from Bess, a woman trapped in an abusive relationship, as she turns to Porgy for comfort and safety. Simone’s version, featured on her debut album Little Girl Blue (1959), transforms this operatic duet into an intimate, emotionally rich ballad that became her first major hit, peaking at number 18 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 2 on the R&B charts. This track is not only a highlight of Simone’s early work, but also a classic that introduced her to the world as one of the most distinctive and emotionally powerful vocalists of her time.

Simone recorded Little Girl Blue in late 1957 at Beltone Studios in New York City, and it was released by Bethlehem Records in February 1959. Despite Simone’s eventual disillusionment with the label due to their lack of promotion, her rendition of “I Loves You, Porgy” became a standout track, capturing the attention of both jazz and pop audiences. Accompanied primarily by her own piano playing, Simone’s version of the song strips away the grandeur of the original operatic setting, replacing it with a haunting, understated interpretation that foregrounds the emotional intensity of the lyrics. Her voice, filled with vulnerability and yearning, gives the song a deeply personal quality that resonated with listeners, turning it into a commercial success and launching her career.

Lyrically, “I Loves You, Porgy” is a cry for protection and love. Simone’s vocal delivery captures the desperation of Bess, pleading, “Don’t let him take me, don’t let him handle me and drive me mad.” In Simone’s hands, these lyrics become more than just words from a character in a play—they feel like a deeply personal confession, as though Simone herself is speaking directly to the listener. The repeated refrain, “If you can keep me, I wanna stay here with you forever,” is delivered with such emotional depth that it elevates the song from a simple ballad to a profound statement about the fragility of love and the fear of losing it. Simone’s piano playing complements the melancholy tone of the song, offering a delicate yet powerful accompaniment to her vocals.

In comparison to other songs on this list, such as “To Love Somebody,” Simone’s cover of “I Loves You, Porgy” shares a similar emotional intensity, though it is more introspective in its approach. While “To Love Somebody” is marked by a raw yearning for unreciprocated love, “I Loves You, Porgy” is a quieter, more intimate expression of fear and longing. Both songs showcase Simone’s unparalleled ability to inhabit a song fully, transforming it into something deeply personal and universally relatable.

“I Loves You, Porgy” was not only a commercial success but also a critical triumph, establishing Simone as a force to be reckoned with in both jazz and pop music. Its success also helped propel Little Girl Blue up the charts, making the album a lasting favorite among fans and critics alike. The song remains a defining moment in Simone’s career, a perfect example of her ability to blend classical, jazz, and pop elements into a performance that is uniquely her own.

#7 – Ain’t Got No, I Got Life

Nina Simone’s “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life,” released in 1968 on her ’Nuff Said! album, is one of the most iconic and enduring songs of her career. The song was a mashup of two separate tracks from the musical Hair, “Ain’t Got No” and “I Got Life,” with Simone using the contrast between these sections to create a powerful commentary on identity, resilience, and the human spirit. It became a defining anthem of empowerment and self-affirmation, particularly for the Civil Rights Movement in the late 1960s. Simone’s rendition not only highlights her extraordinary vocal talent but also her deep connection to the social and political issues of her time.

Recorded at RCA Victor’s Studio in New York City, ’Nuff Said! was a response to the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and features live recordings from a concert Simone performed three days after his death. “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” is the standout track, produced by Joe René, and features Simone’s spirited vocal performance alongside her characteristic piano playing. Backed by a subtle arrangement of guitar, bass, and drums, the song moves from a slow, reflective beginning to a joyful and triumphant conclusion. Simone’s ability to shift emotional tone within a single track demonstrates her mastery in communicating both struggle and hope.

The first part of the song, “Ain’t Got No,” is a list of everything the protagonist lacks—basic necessities, material possessions, and personal freedom. Simone’s delivery here is tinged with melancholy as she sings, “Ain’t got no shoes, ain’t got no money, ain’t got no class.” However, as the song transitions into the second section, “I Got Life,” the mood shifts entirely. With increasing energy and defiance, Simone asserts what she does have: “I got my arms, I got my hands, I got my fingers.” The contrast between these two parts is what makes the song so powerful—despite all the hardships and deprivation, there is still a sense of inner strength and pride in one’s identity. The refrain, “I’ve got life,” is delivered with such exuberance that it feels like a victory over adversity.

In comparison to other songs on this list, such as “I Loves You, Porgy,” which conveys a more introspective sorrow, “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” is a declaration of survival and resilience. It’s not just a reflection on personal hardship, but a collective cry of perseverance in the face of oppression. This spirit of defiance and empowerment makes it particularly unique in Simone’s catalog and in the broader context of protest songs of the 1960s.

Commercially, “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” became a major success, particularly in Europe. It reached number 2 on the UK Singles Chart and became one of Simone’s biggest hits internationally. The song’s success helped cement Simone’s reputation not only as a brilliant musician but also as a voice of social change.

#6 – I Put a Spell on You

Nina Simone’s rendition of “I Put a Spell on You,” released in 1965, is one of her most iconic and captivating performances. Originally written and recorded by Screamin’ Jay Hawkins in 1956 as a theatrical blues number, Simone transformed the song into a brooding, jazz-infused masterpiece. Featured on her I Put a Spell on You album, this version highlights Simone’s unique ability to take an existing song and make it entirely her own, blending elements of jazz, blues, and classical music with an emotional intensity that defines her as one of the most powerful vocalists of the 20th century.

Recorded at RCA Victor Studio in New York City and produced by Hal Mooney, the song showcases Simone’s versatility and control as both a singer and pianist. The arrangement is lush, with sweeping strings, piano, and a steady rhythm section that builds in intensity as Simone’s vocals become more impassioned. While Screamin’ Jay Hawkins’ version of the song was playful and eccentric, Simone’s interpretation is filled with a deep sense of longing and determination. Her voice moves from a haunting whisper to a powerful, commanding presence as she delivers lines like, “I put a spell on you / Because you’re mine,” infusing them with both vulnerability and defiance.

Lyrically, “I Put a Spell on You” is a declaration of obsessive love, with the narrator determined to hold on to their partner at all costs. Simone’s performance captures the tension between desperation and control, making the song feel like a plea and a demand at the same time. Lines like “I can’t stand it / You’re running around” are delivered with a sense of emotional turmoil, but as the song progresses, Simone’s voice takes on a commanding tone, as if casting a literal spell to keep her lover close. The song’s intensity builds to a dramatic climax, showcasing Simone’s vocal range and her ability to convey complex emotions through both her voice and piano playing.

In comparison to other songs on this list, such as “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” and “To Love Somebody,” “I Put a Spell on You” is darker and more intense, focusing on the all-consuming nature of love and desire. While “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” is an anthem of resilience and empowerment, and “To Love Somebody” is filled with a yearning for unreciprocated love, “I Put a Spell on You” explores the darker side of love—possessiveness, control, and obsession. It’s a testament to Simone’s ability to navigate a wide range of emotions in her music, making each song feel deeply personal.

“I Put a Spell on You” became a defining moment in Nina Simone’s career, further establishing her as a genre-defying artist who could blend jazz, blues, and pop with a unique emotional intensity. While the song did not reach the commercial success of some of her other hits, it has remained one of her most enduring and celebrated tracks, thanks to its powerful vocal performance and timeless arrangement.

As one of the key tracks on I Put a Spell on You, the song cemented Simone’s reputation as an artist who could reimagine existing songs in new and profound ways. Its haunting beauty and emotional depth make it a perfect fit for our Top 10 Nina Simone Songs list, standing as a testament to her ability to transform music into an experience that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. Through this song, Simone cast a lasting spell on listeners, solidifying her place as one of the most influential and captivating artists of her generation.

#5 – Gin House Blues

“Gin House Blues,” featured on Nina Simone’s 1961 album Forbidden Fruit, is a classic blues number that showcases Simone’s powerful vocal delivery and deep connection to traditional blues music. Originally a folk-blues song by Bessie Smith and others in the early 20th century, Simone’s rendition transforms it into something uniquely her own. With her smoky vocals and minimalist piano accompaniment, Simone breathes new life into the song, embodying the melancholy and desperation that underlie the lyrics. Released at a time when Simone was establishing herself as a genre-crossing artist, Gin House Blues solidified her place as a vocalist capable of capturing both the agony and resilience found in the blues.

Recorded in New York in 1961, Forbidden Fruit was produced by Cal Lampley, a frequent collaborator of Simone’s during her early career. Backed by musicians including guitarist Al Schackman, bassist Chris White, and drummer Bobby Hamilton, Simone’s version of “Gin House Blues” features a raw, unpolished quality that enhances the song’s theme of indulgence and despair. The simplicity of the arrangement allows her voice to take center stage, as she delivers lines like “Stay away from me, ‘cause I’m in my sin” with a visceral intensity. Her piano playing—alternating between somber and sharp—adds to the song’s depth, making it a quintessential example of her ability to blend jazz, blues, and folk traditions into a seamless whole.

Lyrically, “Gin House Blues” is a lament about self-destruction and the solace sought in alcohol. The narrator’s declaration, “I don’t want no doctor, I don’t need no nurse / I don’t want no doctor, I don’t need no nurse / All I need is my man and a bottle of gin,” encapsulates the cyclical nature of addiction, with Simone’s voice capturing the resignation and sadness of a person caught in that cycle. The song’s mournful tone reflects a deep sense of emotional isolation, and Simone’s vocal delivery amplifies that feeling, as though each word is drenched in sorrow. Comparatively, this song shares thematic similarities with “I Loves You, Porgy,” where the central emotions of longing and despair dominate the narrative. Both songs showcase Simone’s talent for embodying the emotional weight of a song, pulling the listener into the depths of the character’s experiences.

While “Gin House Blues” did not achieve the same commercial success as other tracks in her repertoire, such as “I Loves You, Porgy,” it has become a fan favorite and a staple in her live performances, standing as a testament to her deep roots in blues music. Forbidden Fruit as an album marked an important moment in Simone’s career, as she continued to blend traditional genres with her unique sound, expanding her repertoire and further establishing herself as one of the most versatile vocalists of her time. “Gin House Blues” stands out as one of the most emotionally raw and honest performances on the album, and it remains a defining track in Simone’s exploration of the blues.

#4- To Be Young, Gifted and Black

“To Be Young, Gifted and Black,” one of Nina Simone’s most iconic and impactful songs, was released in 1969 and quickly became an anthem of the Civil Rights Movement. The song was written in memory of Simone’s dear friend, Lorraine Hansberry, the acclaimed playwright best known for A Raisin in the Sun. Inspired by Hansberry’s autobiographical play To Be Young, Gifted and Black, Simone crafted a song that spoke directly to the experiences, struggles, and pride of young Black people in America during a turbulent time. The song was first introduced to an audience of 50,000 during the Harlem Cultural Festival in 1969, a performance captured in the Summer of Soul documentary, and later recorded as part of her Black Gold live album in 1970.

The recording of “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” was part of a larger live concert at Philharmonic Hall, New York, where Simone was backed by her regular band members including Weldon Irvine, who wrote the lyrics to the song. The performance, marked by its emotional gravity and joy, exemplified Simone’s ability to not only entertain but also inspire and uplift. Released as a single, the song peaked at number 8 on the R&B charts and number 76 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1970, solidifying its status as one of Simone’s most important and socially relevant works. The song was produced by Stroud Productions and Enterprises, with Simone at the height of her artistic and political powers.

Lyrically, “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” is a message of empowerment and pride. Simone sings, “Oh what a lovely precious dream / To be young, gifted and black,” setting the tone for the song as both a celebration of identity and a call to action. The lines “We must begin to tell our young / There’s a world waiting for you / Yours is the quest that’s just begun” resonate deeply, encouraging young Black people to embrace their identity and see themselves as part of a larger, powerful community. Simone’s vocals are filled with conviction, and her delivery of these lyrics is a perfect balance of warmth, strength, and determination. The song’s chorus, “To be young, gifted, and black / Is where it’s at,” serves as a bold declaration of pride and purpose.

In comparison to other songs on this list, such as “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” and “I Loves You, Porgy,” “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” stands out as a direct social and political statement. While “Ain’t Got No, I Got Life” focuses on personal empowerment and resilience in the face of hardship, and “I Loves You, Porgy” delves into the complexities of love and protection, “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” is a celebration of collective identity and empowerment. The song’s uplifting message and anthemic quality make it one of Simone’s most enduring contributions to the Civil Rights Movement, cementing her role not just as an artist but as a leader in the fight for racial equality.

“To Be Young, Gifted and Black” has been covered by numerous artists, including Donny Hathaway, Aretha Franklin, and Bob and Marcia, further proving its lasting legacy. In 1970, the Bob and Marcia version reached number 5 on the UK Singles Chart, showing that the song’s message resonated beyond the United States. Over the years, it has been embraced by generations of musicians and activists alike, becoming a staple in the celebration of Black excellence.

As a defining track in Nina Simone’s discography, “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” is more than just a song—it’s an anthem of pride, hope, and resistance. Its message of empowerment continues to inspire listeners today, and its place in the Top 10 Nina Simone Songs list is unquestionable. The song stands as a reminder of Simone’s genius, not only as a musician but as a force for social change, using her platform to uplift and inspire her community.

#3 – Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood

“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is one of Nina Simone’s most iconic songs, and it has become a classic in both her repertoire and in the annals of 1960s music. Originally written by Bennie Benjamin, Gloria Caldwell, and Sol Marcus, the song was recorded by Simone in 1964 for her album Broadway-Blues-Ballads. It was produced by Hal Mooney and recorded at RCA Victor’s Studio in New York City. Although the song was initially intended for Simone, it gained further fame when covered by The Animals in 1965, who turned it into a rock hit. However, Simone’s version remains deeply resonant for its emotional complexity and the raw vulnerability of her delivery.

Simone’s rendition of “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is a perfect example of her ability to blend different genres, including jazz, blues, and soul. Backed by a minimalist arrangement that emphasizes her piano playing and rich vocals, Simone turns the song into a deeply personal plea. Lyrically, the song is about seeking understanding, asking for empathy and forgiveness for one’s flaws. Simone’s vocal delivery, alternately soft and powerful, brings out the emotional depth of lines like “I’m just a soul whose intentions are good / Oh Lord, please don’t let me be misunderstood.” Her ability to convey the tension between vulnerability and strength is what makes this track so timeless.

In the context of the other songs on this list, such as “I Loves You, Porgy” and “To Be Young, Gifted and Black,” “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” stands out for its exploration of personal emotions and internal struggle. While “I Loves You, Porgy” deals with love and protection, and “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” serves as an anthem for collective empowerment, “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” focuses on the individual’s quest for understanding and forgiveness in a world that often misinterprets intentions. This song captures the essence of Simone’s complexity as an artist—someone who was not only a powerful voice in the Civil Rights Movement but also deeply reflective and personal in her work.

Commercially, Simone’s version of “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” did not chart as highly as The Animals’ rock version, but it has since gained recognition as one of her definitive songs. The song has been covered by numerous artists, including Santa Esmeralda and Elvis Costello, but Simone’s original remains the most emotionally potent. Her version of the song was rediscovered by later generations and continues to resonate with audiences due to its universal theme of seeking understanding and acceptance.

“Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood” is a profound statement about the human experience, one that captures both the joy and the sorrow of living. It is a song that, like much of Simone’s work, transcends its era to speak to listeners across generations. As one of the Top 10 Nina Simone Songs, it reflects her genius in transforming a simple melody and lyrics into a deep and soulful reflection on the complexities of life and human relationships.

Read More: Top 10 Songs From The Animals

# 2 – Feeling Good

Nina Simone’s rendition of “Feeling Good,” released in 1965 on her album I Put a Spell on You, is one of the most iconic performances of her career. Originally written by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse for the 1964 musical The Roar of the Greasepaint – The Smell of the Crowd, the song was transformed by Simone into a powerful anthem of liberation and self-assurance. Simone’s deep, soulful voice paired with the song’s sweeping orchestration makes her version definitive, showcasing her ability to bring emotional depth and personal meaning to every song she performed.

Recorded at New York’s RCA Victor Studio and produced by Hal Mooney, Feeling Good exemplifies Simone’s mastery of blending genres—jazz, blues, and orchestral elements—to create a unique sound that feels both timeless and relevant. Backed by a rich arrangement of horns, strings, and percussion, Simone’s commanding vocal performance takes center stage. She starts the song with a quiet, almost meditative tone before building into a triumphant crescendo. The arrangement mirrors the song’s lyrical theme of rebirth and freedom, underscoring the message of personal empowerment and renewal.

Lyrically, “Feeling Good” is a celebration of a new beginning, filled with natural imagery that conveys a sense of boundless freedom. Lines like “Birds flying high, you know how I feel / Sun in the sky, you know how I feel” evoke the beauty of the natural world, while Simone’s delivery imbues these words with a deeper sense of emotional release. The refrain “It’s a new dawn, it’s a new day, it’s a new life for me” is delivered with such conviction that it feels like an exhale of long-suppressed emotion. This is a song about liberation—from oppression, from heartache, and from the burdens of the past—and Simone’s performance captures that sense of catharsis.

When compared to other songs on this list, such as “I Loves You, Porgy” or “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood,” “Feeling Good” stands apart as an expression of triumph rather than vulnerability. While many of Simone’s songs explore themes of love, loss, and social struggle, “Feeling Good” is a rare moment of unbridled joy and confidence. However, it shares with these other tracks the common thread of Simone’s ability to take a song and make it deeply personal. In the case of “Feeling Good,” she transforms it from a show tune into an anthem for anyone seeking freedom and empowerment.

Though it was not a major chart hit upon its release, Simone’s version of “Feeling Good” has grown in stature over the decades, becoming one of her signature songs. It has been covered by numerous artists across genres, but Simone’s version remains the most enduring and beloved. The song has also gained new life in popular culture, appearing in movies, commercials, and television shows, further cementing its place in music history.

# 1 – Wild Is The Wind

Nina Simone’s 1966 recording of “Wild Is the Wind” is perhaps her most essential and iconic performance, closing our list as her definitive song. Originally written by Dimitri Tiomkin and Ned Washington for the 1957 film Wild Is the Wind, the song was first recorded by Johnny Mathis. However, it was Nina Simone who transformed it into a haunting and deeply emotional masterpiece. Released on her 1966 album of the same name, Simone’s rendition is considered one of the most profound interpretations of the song, expressing an almost overwhelming sense of yearning and loss.

Simone first performed “Wild Is the Wind” live in 1959, but it was her 1966 studio version—recorded in New York City between 1964 and 1965 and produced by Hal Mooney—that would become the definitive take. With sparse instrumentation, including her own piano playing, the song leaves plenty of space for Simone’s voice to dominate. Backed by subtle strings, the arrangement highlights the raw emotion of the lyrics, which speak to the wild, uncontrollable nature of love. Simone’s drawn-out vocal delivery, punctuated by moments of quiet intensity, perfectly captures the passion and pain embedded in the words, “You touch me, I hear the sound of mandolins / You kiss me, with your kiss my life begins.”

Lyrically, the song speaks to the uncontrollable force of love, comparing it to the unpredictable nature of the wind. Simone’s interpretation takes this metaphor and turns it into a deeply personal expression of longing, drawing out every syllable with an almost painful vulnerability. Her delivery of lines like “Love me, love me, say you do / Let me fly away with you” conveys a deep desire for connection, tempered by the melancholy that comes with knowing that such love can never be fully captured or contained. The song’s sparse arrangement, combined with Simone’s unmatched ability to convey raw emotion, elevates it to a timeless piece of art that resonates with listeners on a visceral level.

In comparison to other songs on this list, such as “I Put a Spell on You” or “Feeling Good,” “Wild Is the Wind” is more subdued but equally powerful. Where “Feeling Good” exudes triumphant liberation and “I Put a Spell on You” drips with possessive intensity, “Wild Is the Wind” is a meditation on the fragility of love, wrapped in an atmosphere of quiet despair. It’s this versatility that made Simone such a transcendent artist—her ability to capture the full emotional spectrum through her unique interpretations.

Although the song did not initially chart in the same way as some of Simone’s other hits, it has since gained immense cultural significance. It was featured in the trailer for the 2008 film Revolutionary Road and reached number 6 on Billboard’s Digital Jazz chart in 2013. Over the years, it has been covered by numerous artists, including David Bowie, who was deeply influenced by Simone’s version, recording his own haunting interpretation in 1976. Yet despite these other versions, it is Simone’s recording that continues to stand as the definitive interpretation of the song.

As the closing track on our Top 10 Nina Simone Songs list, “Wild Is the Wind” represents the essence of Nina Simone’s genius. It captures her ability to take a song and transform it into something entirely her own, using her voice and piano to express emotions that go far beyond the written lyrics. It is a song that speaks to the unpredictable, untamable nature of love and stands as a testament to Simone’s ability to convey the depths of human experience through music. “Wild Is the Wind” is not just one of her most essential recordings—it is one of the most essential recordings in all of popular music.

Feature Photo: Roland Godefroy, CC BY-SA 3.0 <http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/>, via Wikimedia Commons

Top 10 Nina Simone Songs article published on Classic RockHistory.com© 2024

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