Originally released in 1963. The versatile singer, songwriter, pianist, musical arranger, and civil rights activist Nina Simone was one of the most iconic of all jazz performers. Operating in a range of genres, from folk, blues, and rhythm ‘n’ blues to pop, gospel, and classical, Simone issued over 40 albums during a long and successful career, though bipolar disorder dramatically affected her later years. Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon in 1933, she was one of eight children in a poor black family. Colpix Records’ 1963 release, Nina’s Choice, was titled in reference to the fact that Simone chose the entire contents, drawing from a range of pop, folk, blues, and show tunes, all interpreted and delivered in her uniquely expressive style.
