17 Oct 2023

Music feature: Nina Simone

From Afternoons, 2:30 pm on 17 October 2023

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Today's music feature takes an in depth look into singer, songwriter, pianist and activist Nina Simone. 

She became a prominent figure in the American jazz and blues scene in the late 1950s and was quickly recognised for her distinct voice and remarkable musical ability. 

Becoming a central figure in the Civil Rights Movement of the 60s, Simone was fearless in expressing her desire for justice and equality through her music. 

She's been inducted into just about every music hall of fame you could name and has been cited as an influence by everybody from Lauryn Hill to David Bowie and Jeff Buckley.

RNZ producer Sam Hollis talks to Jesse about the life and legacy of Nina Simone.

Nina Simone (1933-2003), American jazz singer and pianist. "Quatre temps" TV show by Michèle Arnaud. Paris, March 1969. (Photo by Jacques Citles / Jacques Citles / Roger-Viollet via AFP)

Photo: JACQUES CITLES