(Courtesy photo)

In celebration of the 90th birthday of the iconic Nina Simone, Verve Records and UMe have unveiled a hidden gem from her illustrious career. “Blues for Mama,” the second single from the newly-discovered live recording of Nina’s mesmerizing performance at the 1966 Newport Jazz Festival, has been released as part of the year-long commemoration. The full album, “You’ve Got To Learn,” will be available on July 21 via Verve Records, and fans can pre-order the album and enjoy the single right now.

The hauntingly beautiful spoken introduction by Simone sets the stage for “Blues for Mama,” transporting listeners to a bygone era. Describing the scene of an old porch, an old man, a beat-up guitar, and a broken bottle, Nina’s evocative words paint a vivid picture of the composition process. The lyrics, penned by Abbey Lincoln, and the music, composed by Simone herself, evoke a profound connection with women who have experienced similar journeys.

Related Links:

https://lasentinel.net/nina-simone-and-thom-bell-receive-musics-highest-honor-the-recording-academy-2017-special-merit-award.html

https://lasentinel.net/michael-dixons-how-are-you-healing-album-out-now.html

Following the release of the electrifying rendition of “Mississippi Goddam,” the first single from the album, the unveiling of “Blues for Mama” further enriches the musical legacy of Nina Simone. Fans can immerse themselves in the lyric video for the song, experiencing the raw emotion and depth of her performance.

Transporting us back to July 2, 1966, the Newport Jazz Festival holds the memories of a legendary six-song set by Nina Simone, captivating the hearts of music enthusiasts for over five decades. Now, a previously unknown and unreleased recording of this unforgettable concert has been unearthed, allowing the world to witness the brilliance of that moment.

This newly released recording captures the essence of Simone’s performance at the festival, showcasing her unparalleled vocal range and her ability to create an intimate connection with her audience. Listening to this recording is akin to experiencing the magic that made Nina Simone’s live concerts legendary, reminding us why she is considered one of the most exceptional performers of the 20th century.

The release of this long-hidden recording is a monumental event for music lovers and fans of Nina Simone around the globe. It provides a rare opportunity to delve into the artistry of this extraordinary musician, transporting us to a time when her music reverberated through the halls of the Newport Jazz Festival, leaving an indelible mark on the history of jazz.

The tracklist of “You’ve Got To Learn” promises to take listeners on a captivating journey through Nina Simone’s repertoire, featuring classics like “I Loves You, Porgy,” “Be My Husband,” and the powerful anthem “Mississippi Goddam.” Each song encapsulates the essence of Simone’s genius, ensuring that this album will be cherished by fans both old and new.

As the world celebrates Nina Simone’s 90th birthday, the release of “You’ve Got To Learn” stands as a testament to her enduring influence and undeniable talent. It is an invitation to immerse ourselves in the richness of her artistry and rediscover the magic that continues to captivate audiences to this day.