Nina Simone

Nina Simone, also known as Eunice Kathleen Waymon, was born in Tryon, North Carolina, in 1933. From a young age, she showed a great musical sensitivity. At two years old, she was already playing the piano, and by the age of twelve, she performed in a recital. Her father, seated in the first row, was forced to move so that a group of whites could take his place. She did not play again until her parents sat back down. That experience marked her deeply.

Her voice was unique. She had a contralto range, and sang with a passion that made her vibrate. Sometimes she would fall silent, or pause in a whisper, as if she were speaking directly to the listener. Her way of singing was intense, with pauses that gave weight to what she said. The combination of her voice and the piano made her stand out anywhere.