Description
Nina Simone – Nina Simone Sings The Blues – 180 Gram Blue Vinyl Record
Vinyl Me Please
Mastered from the original analogtapes by Ryan Smith, Sterling Sound
Pressed on exclusive 180g blue vinyl
Listening notes booklet by Salamishah Tillet. Art print by Melana Bass
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic
Nina Simone Sings the Blues is a seminal studio album by the iconic singer, songwriter, and pianist Nina Simone, released in January 1967 by RCA Victor Records. This album marked Simone’s debut on the RCA label and is widely considered one of her most soulful and emotionally raw records. Known for her ability to blend genres such as jazz, gospel, classical, and folk, “Nina Simone Sings the Blues” focuses heavily on blues, yet it also incorporates elements of jazz, R&B, and soul. The album showcases her powerful, emotive voice and skilled piano playing, solidifying Simone’s reputation as one of the most unique and versatile artists of her time.
By the time Nina Simone Sings the Blues was released, Nina Simone was already an established and respected figure in the music world, having built a diverse catalog that spanned multiple genres. Known for her fearless political activism and deeply expressive performances, Simone was transitioning into a more assertive, blues-driven sound that reflected both her personal experiences and the turbulent social climate of the 1960s.
The album came at a pivotal moment in Simone’s career, as she had recently moved to RCA Victor from Philips Records. With her artistic freedom intact, Simone delivered an album that leaned into the raw emotion of the blues, while also continuing to address themes of racial injustice, heartbreak, and resilience.
Nina Simone Sings the Blues features a mix of traditional blues standards, original compositions, and covers, each showcasing Simone’s distinct ability to convey profound emotion through her voice and piano.
“Do I Move You?” – The opening track is a slow, sultry blues number that sets the tone for the album. Simone’s sensual delivery and assertive lyrics create a song that brims with confidence and desire. The track’s minimalistic arrangement highlights her vocal power and piano playing.
“Day and Night” – A haunting and introspective track, “Day and Night” is a slow blues lament with Simone’s expressive piano work anchoring the song. Her voice shifts between vulnerability and strength, reflecting the emotional complexity of the lyrics.
“My Man’s Gone Now” – This song, originally from George Gershwin’s opera Porgy and Bess, is transformed into a dark, melancholic blues ballad. Simone’s deep, mournful delivery is filled with sorrow, making it one of the most emotionally powerful tracks on the album.
“Backlash Blues” – Written by civil rights activist and poet Langston Hughes, “Backlash Blues” is one of the most politically charged songs on the album. Simone’s performance here is defiant, addressing the struggles of African Americans during the Civil Rights Movement. The song’s biting lyrics and Simone’s intense delivery make it a standout protest anthem.
“I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl” – A playful and seductive blues track, this song showcases Simone’s ability to mix sensuality with humor. Her voice, paired with simple yet effective instrumentation, creates a warm, intimate atmosphere.
“Buck” – An instrumental blues track that highlights Simone’s virtuosity as a pianist. The song allows her piano playing to take center stage, revealing the depth of her classical training while still staying true to the blues.
“Since I Fell for You” – A timeless blues ballad, Simone delivers this song with deep emotion, reflecting the heartache and longing that defines the genre. Her rich, resonant voice paired with the understated arrangement makes for a powerful performance.
“The House of the Rising Sun” – Simone offers a unique and haunting interpretation of this traditional folk song, which was made famous by The Animals. Her version is slower and more dramatic, with a darker, more introspective feel.
“Blues for Mama” – Written by Abbey Lincoln and Simone, this song is a classic blues lament about heartbreak and hardship. Simone’s delivery is raw and powerful, making it one of the most emotionally impactful tracks on the album.
“In the Dark” – A moody, atmospheric track that draws from the depths of traditional blues, “In the Dark” features Simone’s slow, deliberate piano playing and deep, resonant vocals. The track’s minimalistic arrangement allows her expressive voice to shine.
Nina Simone Sings the Blues is steeped in the raw emotion of the blues but also expands into jazz, soul, and R&B. The album’s lyrical themes revolve around love, desire, loss, pain, and social injustice—common themes in blues music, but delivered with Simone’s unique intensity and personal touch. Songs like “Backlash Blues” and “Blues for Mama” offer social commentary on the African American experience, while tracks like “I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl” and “Do I Move You?” explore themes of sensuality and romantic longing.
Simone’s voice is the album’s most striking feature, moving effortlessly between delicate vulnerability and fierce power. Her piano playing, often understated but full of emotion, complements her vocals perfectly. The production is simple, often focusing on piano, bass, and subtle percussion, allowing Simone’s voice and piano to dominate the sound.
Nina Simone Sings the Blues received critical acclaim upon its release and has since been recognized as one of Simone’s finest works. The album was praised for its emotional depth, vocal performance, and Simone’s ability to breathe new life into both traditional blues and contemporary compositions.
Over the years, the album has grown in stature, with many considering it a classic in both the blues and jazz genres. Songs like “Backlash Blues” became anthems of the Civil Rights Movement, while tracks like “I Want a Little Sugar in My Bowl” remain some of Simone’s most beloved performances.
Nina Simone Sings the Blues remains one of the most significant albums in Nina Simone’s discography, showcasing her immense talent and emotional range. The album has influenced countless artists in jazz, blues, and beyond, and it continues to resonate with listeners for its timeless exploration of love, pain, and resilience.
Simone’s ability to blend genres while maintaining a deeply personal and political voice set her apart from her contemporaries, and “Nina Simone Sings the Blues” is a testament to her legacy as one of the most powerful and innovative voices in 20th-century music.
Track Listing
Do I Move You?
Day And Night
In The Dark
Real Real
My Man’s Gone Now
Backlash Blues
I Want A Little Sugar In My Bowl
Buck
Since I Fell For You
The House Of The Rising Sun
Blues For Mama
