I’m getting into Nina-mode. Taking on this show is a challenge on some levels (logistically, financially) but it is also the easiest thing I have ever done. Many have questioned my choice to bring the band with me to my show in Atlanta. Why not pick up musicians in Atlanta? The answer is simple: I want a certain level of comfort and ease on stage because I want to be totally free of worry. I need to have my guys (The Shivers) behind me because they know me and will guarantee the best presentation possible.
An acquaintance and fellow singer said to me: You sing Nina Simone? You must be a beast!
The truth is I have never been intimidated by her repertoire, mostly because her exploration of so many genres is perfectly suited to my voice and nature. She is the one artist who did what I have always done: sang whatever she wanted to sing. I don’t have the technical genius of her piano playing and music theory but that does not discourage me. I am not a Nina imitator. But I believe that I do share her power as a performer. And her ability to reach an audience is something that I also share. It is my lifeline. The ability to be vulnerable and honest on stage is one of my gifts. It is natural. I’m not boasting here. I am telling you my truth as a performer. Every time I go on stage I call on my ancestors: the Preacher (Papa), the Slave (my great-grandmother), the Mother and Nina Simone.
Singing this amazing artist’s repertoire empowers me. Perhaps it is because of her musical choices and her independent spirit that I am drawn to her. Nina Simone is dear to me. Her journey, her drive and her energy ignites a joy and energy in me as a performer. Performing her repertoire is not like doing covers because she covered so many genres which has always been my thing. She sang in French and Hebrew – my favorite thing to do is to sing in different languages. Her exploration of American Roots music (chain gang songs, Gospel shouts and chants) Blues, the American Songbook, show tunes, rock, Pop, RnB, protest music and a cappela vocalizing – it’s all stuff I adore. The drama of the singer as character, the characterization of songs – that is so my thing. How could I help but connect to this artist?
Atlanta: Get ready!
I perform My tribute to Nina Simone on Friday, July 1, 2016 at City Winery Atlanta. $20 8pm for tickets & info:
Tickets and info
