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From album
Little Girl Blue
Nina Simone · 1958 · Track 11
Details
Duración3:04
ÁlbumLittle Girl Blue
Año1958
ISRCQMRSZ1702357
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The story behind
The piece Central Park Blues, with its duration of 3 minutes and 6 seconds, immerses us in an atmosphere that evokes the intimacy of a jazz club. The performance by Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon, is distinguished by a voice that spans a surprisingly wide range, capable of moving from a whisper to a lament with an intensity that underscores every emotion. Her style, often described as eclectic, is fueled by passion and vocal technique that includes a breathy quality and a particular vibrato. In this song, as in much of her work, the influence of Duke Ellington is perceived, especially in the way compositions open up to improvisation and a deep spiritual connection. Simone achieved a unique connection with her listeners, using silences deliberately and reducing accompaniment to highlight her expressiveness.
The album Little Girl Blue, which includes Central Park Blues, was Nina Simone's debut and saw the light of day through Bethlehem Records in February 1959. However, the recordings had been made in late 1957, and the release was delayed. This wait, coupled with the absence of promotional singles, generated dissatisfaction in Simone with Bethlehem Records, leading her to sign with Colpix Records in April 1959. Curiously, in May of the same year, Bethlehem finally released the single I Loves You, Porgy, which became her first major hit, reaching number 18 on the pop charts and number 2 on the R&B charts. This momentum helped the album Little Girl Blue gain visibility. Nina Simone, also known as the "High Priestess of Soul", was a key figure in jazz, blues, rhythm and blues, and soul, as well as a fervent advocate for civil rights.