My Nina Simone Tribute is tonight. It’s finally here. All of the weeks of preparation all come to fruition in roughly five hours. The Shivers and I have rehearsed, conversed, arranged and thought about this night. Personally, I have considered this show as a turning point for me as a performer. It’s been ages since I learned an entirely new repertoire for one concert like this. It’s been a journey for me. Learning about this artist and listening to her recordings repeatedly has incorporated her voice in my head. And I feel so connected to her. I feel a spiritual connection as an artist, an African American female and definitely a singer who has dared to be different.
So this “Ne Me Quitte Pas” song has me a little in knots. I can’t believe I am going to sing in French in front of other Humans. Lord, give me strength. I got the accent down and the melody and now I will try to just go with it and not be afraid. Thank you Nina Simone. Your legacy has touched me and motivated me in a way that I needed to finally break through my own bullshit of insecurity and self doubt. Her plaintive songs and sense of fun connects me with her in such a primal way. I have to sing these songs. I have to share it with the world. I just hope I don’t get too emotional tonight. I need a clear head – literally – as ears and snot will aggravate my congestion! I need clear sinus passages tonight!!
I’m nervous, excited, happy and a wee bit scared. You’d think this was my first rodeo! On the other hand I feel good about singing these songs and plan to perform on full thrusters tonight. (always a Star Trek reference) And I have a feeling that my folks are going to come out tonight and take this ride with me.
