

1933-2003
Pioneering singer, pianist, civil rights advocate
Did you know Nina Simone’s voice and piano had the power to move mountains? Born in 1933, Nina grew up loving music so much she dreamed of becoming a classical pianist. But one day, she realized her true mission: to use every note to share joy and fight for fairness.
Nina Simone was a singer, pianist, and songwriter who believed music could change the world. In the 1950s and 60s, she played in smoky clubs and big concert halls, blending jazz, blues, and classical styles into something totally new. Her songs carried messages of love, sadness, hope, and strength—one song at a time, she spoke for millions.
She became famous with hits like “I Loves You, Porgy” and earned the nickname “High Priestess of Soul.” But her biggest claim to fame wasn’t just beautiful melodies—it was how she used her music to stand against unfair treatment of people. She wrote powerful protest songs like “Mississippi Goddam” that shook audiences awake and inspired change.
Nina Simone’s courage and creativity left a lasting mark on history. She showed that an artist could be both a brilliant musician and a passionate activist. Today, people all over the world listen to her songs and learn how words and music together can help make the world kinder and fairer for everyone.