Silk & Soul

Album Description

Nina Simone's 1967 masterpiece, Silk & Soul, is a sublime 36-minute journey that showcases the legendary vocalist's incredible range and emotional depth. Released on 1 January 1967 via RCA/Legacy, this iconic album seamlessly blends genres, incorporating the sophistication of vocal jazz, the intensity of jazz blues, and the passion of soul jazz, soul, and blues.

Throughout the album's 12 tracks, Nina Simone's powerful, soulful voice weaves a narrative that is both deeply personal and universally relatable. From the poignant 'I Wish I Knew How It Would Feel to Be Free' to the sultry 'Turn Me On', Simone's interpretations are characterised by their unflinching honesty and vulnerability. The album's eclectic tracklist, which also features 'The Look of Love', 'Go to Hell', and 'Save Me', is a testament to Simone's fearless approach to music, refusing to be bound by conventional genre boundaries.

With Silk & Soul, Nina Simone cemented her status as a visionary artist, one who continues to inspire and influence generations of musicians and fans alike. This album is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the very best of jazz, blues, and soul, and a powerful reminder of Nina Simone's enduring legacy as a true music legend.

1 jan 1967

About Nina Simone

Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon, was a towering figure in music and activism, known for her powerful voice and profound piano skills. Her music defied easy categorization, blending classical, jazz, blues, folk, gospel, R&B, and pop into a unique and captivating sound. Simone's piano playing was deeply influenced by baroque and classical music, particularly Johann Sebastian Bach, while her singing was expressive and jazz-infused, showcasing her remarkable contralto range. Beyond her musical prowess, Simone was a fierce civil rights activist, using her platform to advocate for social justice and equality. Her songs like "Mississippi Goddam" and "Young, Gifted and Black" became anthems for the movement. Simone's legacy endures as a testament to her artistic genius and her unwavering commitment to social change.