NINA SIMONE

Eunice Kathleen Waymon, better known by her stage name, Nina Simone, was an American jazz singer who recorded more than 40 albums between 1958 and 1974. Her original music style arose from a fusion of gospel, pop and classical influences. Nina's musical talent initially led to a desire to become a concert pianist, but the realities of poverty and racial prejudice forced her onto a different path. Her musical career shifted after she was turned down for a scholarship at the prestigious Curtis Institute of Philadelphia, Pa.

Simone began playing and singing in a small club in Philadelphia to fund her desire to become a classical pianist. She was approached by Bethlehem Records in 1958 and the song "I Love you, Porgy” helped launch her recording career. After 20 years of performing, Simone became involved in the civil rights movement and her music served to assist blacks in their quest for equal rights.