1963 Nina Simone Concert Poster

Product Description

Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon, this gifted pianist and singer attended Julliard, with aspirations of becoming a classical concert pianist. Financial realities forced a move into playing nightclubs, and she changed her name to “Nina Simone,” an attempt to both appeal to the tastes of jazz patrons and to conceal her career from family members who considered this sort of music beneath her abilities. The years 1959-64 were good ones for her, with best-selling records like “I Loves You Porgy,” “Mood Indigo” and “My Baby Just Cares For Me.” Starting about 1964, her material took on an increasingly militant tone, and she alienated many listeners with her strident civil rights position. A volatile and troubled soul, Simone is remembered today for her unique style as both vocalist and pianist. Her piano playing, perhaps unsurprisingly reflects her classical background, and bears at least some resemblance to that of John Lewis. Her vocal approach remains enigmatic and beyond categorization. Nina Simone was a true American original. This poster announced her famous April 12, 1963 debut at New York’s Carnegie Hall.