She was one of the most extraordinary artists of the twentieth century, an icon of American music.

Simone occupied a broad range of musical styles including jazz, blues, folk, classical, R&B, gospel and more. Born in North Carolina – the sixth child of a preacher –Eunice Waymon aspired to be a concert pianist. To make a living, she decided to change her name to “Nina Simone” in order to disguise herself from family members, as she played cocktail piano in nightclubs. Until she was told she had to sing her own accompaniment, her jazz vocalist career was effectively launched.

Nina has recorded more than 40 studio albums; she was the recipient of a Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 2000 and has additionally received 15 nominations throughout her career. After nearly 3 decades, she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame as part of the 2018 class.

Since her death in 2003, Simone has remained one of the world’s most cherished jazz prodigies – timeless melodies that only come around once every generation.