Check out these new and used Nina Simone vinyl records LPs for sale. We recommend starting your Nina Simone vinyl collection with the essential albums To Love Somebody, Black Gold and Here Comes The Sun. Our inventory is always changing, so check back often, or browse our list of vinyl records for sale from jazz musicians.

Nina Simone: An Artistic Journey through Time

The Pioneering Force of Nina Simone Vinyl

Nina Simone Vinyl, an iconic band born out of the rich soil of jazz and soul, has left an indelible mark on the music landscape. Led by the incomparable Nina Simone, the band seamlessly blended genres, pushing the boundaries of conventional sound and delivering a musical experience that resonates across generations.

Nina Simone: The Soulful Songstress

Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon in 1933, was not just a singer; she was a force of nature. Her voice, a velvet cascade of emotions, effortlessly conveyed the depth of her experiences and the pulse of the era. Nina Simone Vinyl emerged as a vehicle for her artistic expression, showcasing a fusion of jazz, blues, and soul that transcended the boundaries of traditional music.

The Discography Unveiled

1. “Little Girl Blue” (1958)

The debut album, “Little Girl Blue,” marked the genesis of Nina Simone’s illustrious career. Featuring the timeless classic “My Baby Just Cares for Me,” the album established Simone as a vocal powerhouse with a penchant for emotive storytelling. The raw intensity of her voice was a harbinger of the musical brilliance that would follow.

2. “Wild Is the Wind” (1966)

“Wild Is the Wind” showcased Nina Simone’s ability to reinvent songs and make them uniquely hers. The title track, originally recorded by Johnny Mathis, became a soul-stirring anthem under Simone’s interpretation. The album exemplified her command over diverse musical styles, from the bluesy “Four Women” to the poignant “I’m Gonna Leave You.”

3. “Nina Simone Sings the Blues” (1967)

This album delved deeper into the blues, with Simone infusing each track with raw emotion. From the haunting “Do I Move You?” to the defiant “Backlash Blues,” she explored the complexities of the genre, solidifying her reputation as a versatile artist unafraid of challenging societal norms through her music.

4. “To Love Somebody” (1969)

“To Love Somebody” saw Nina Simone venture into rock and folk territory. The title track, a cover of the Bee Gees’ song, displayed her ability to mold songs to fit her distinctive style. This album showcased the breadth of Simone’s influences and her refusal to be confined by genre constraints.

5. “Black Gold” (1970)

“Black Gold” captured Nina Simone’s live performance prowess, recorded at the Philharmonic Hall in New York City. The album featured extended versions of her classics, including the evocative “To Be Young, Gifted and Black.” Simone’s live renditions added a new dimension to her studio recordings, showcasing her improvisational genius.

Kindred Spirits: Similar Bands

1. Billie Holiday

Billie Holiday, a seminal figure in jazz, shared thematic and stylistic similarities with Nina Simone. Both artists used their voices as instruments of resistance, addressing societal issues through their music. Holiday’s influence on Simone’s approach to storytelling and emotional delivery is evident in the profound impact both artists had on the world of jazz.

2. Aretha Franklin

Often hailed as the “Queen of Soul,” Aretha Franklin’s powerful vocals and gospel roots parallel Nina Simone’s expressive style. Both artists navigated the tumultuous waters of the civil rights movement, using their art to advocate for social change. The dynamic range of their voices and the emotional depth of their performances connect these two trailblazing women of music.

3. Etta James

Etta James, known for her soulful renditions of blues and R&B, shared common ground with Nina Simone in their ability to infuse every note with palpable emotion. Their paths crossed as they explored the intersections of jazz, blues, and soul, leaving an indelible mark on the evolving landscape of American music.

The Ripple Effect: Influence on Contemporary Artists

1. Lauryn Hill

Lauryn Hill, a multifaceted artist, drew inspiration from Nina Simone’s fusion of genres and fearless approach to tackling societal issues. Hill’s groundbreaking work with The Fugees and her solo career reflects Simone’s influence in challenging the status quo through innovative musical expressions.

2. Alicia Keys

Alicia Keys, with her soulful voice and genre-blurring compositions, pays homage to Nina Simone’s legacy. Keys, like Simone, uses her platform to address social justice issues, intertwining activism with her musical journey. The echoes of Simone’s fearless spirit resonate in Keys’ commitment to making music with a purpose.

3. Janelle Monáe

Janelle Monáe, an artist known for her genre-defying sound and conceptual storytelling, mirrors Nina Simone’s fearless approach to artistic expression. Monáe, like Simone, blurs the lines between genres, delivering music that transcends traditional boundaries and challenges societal norms.

Conclusion

Nina Simone Vinyl stands as a testament to the transformative power of music. Through a journey that spanned decades and genres, Nina Simone and her band crafted a musical legacy that continues to inspire and resonate. As we explore the depths of their discography and reflect on their impact on the musical landscape, it becomes evident that Nina Simone Vinyl is not just a band; it is an artistic force that transcends time and genre, leaving an indelible mark on the heart and soul of music enthusiasts worldwide.