Nine years ago this weekend, Nina Simone died in France. She was an extraordinary pianist, singer, and overall performer. Any note, beat, or rhythm composed by Nina Simone carried a message, through her varied sounds, she became a distinctive voice of an entire era. Her work was gripping with emotion, both high and low. The pensive beauty of “Four Women” is unmatched to this day. No one sounds like her and I don’t think anyone ever will.  She was an extremely underrated musician in life and even in death.

Check out a performance of one of her Civil Rights anthems and remember that genius that defines Nina Simone.

SOUND OFF.