11 Underrated Nina Simone Songs: Rare Tunes!

Hey there, music aficionados! TBone here, from Level Tunes, and as always, I’m thrilled to share my passion for great music with you.

Today, I’m diving into the soul-stirring world of Nina Simone.

Sure, we’ve all heard her classics, but there’s so much more to this iconic artist. So, why this list?

Well, it struck me how many of her songs remain underappreciated, hidden gems in the vast ocean of her discography.

These 11 underrated tracks not only showcase Nina’s incredible range and depth but also offer a deeper understanding of her artistic genius.

So, buckle up, and let’s embark on this musical journey through the lesser-known but equally mesmerizing songs of the High Priestess of Soul, Nina Simone.

Here are the underrated Nina Simone songs that you can check out:

List Of Underrated Nina Simone

Underrated Nina Simone in a list format:

1. “Blackbird”

From the album “Nina Simone with Strings” (1966, Colpix Records), “Blackbird” is a poignant track that showcases Nina’s ability to infuse deep emotion into her music. This song, not to be confused with the Beatles’ hit, is a raw and haunting melody that speaks to the struggle and resilience of the African American experience. The orchestral arrangement beautifully complements Nina’s powerful vocals, making it a truly moving piece. I chose this song for its emotional depth and its representation of Nina’s activism through art.

2. “Funkier Than a Mosquito’s Tweeter”

Featured on the album “It Is Finished” (1974, RCA Records), this song is a funk-infused track that stands out in Nina’s discography. Written by her brother, Sam Waymon, it’s a testament to her versatility and willingness to explore different genres. The song’s funky rhythm, combined with Nina’s soulful voice, creates a vibrant and energetic atmosphere. I love this track for its spirited vibe and how it showcases a different side of Nina Simone’s musical personality.

3. “Turn Me On”

This track from “And Piano!” (1969, RCA Records) is a cover of a John D. Loudermilk song. Nina’s rendition is sultry and captivating, turning a simple love song into a deeply expressive performance. Her piano playing, nuanced and tender, adds an intimate layer to this track. I chose “Turn Me On” for its simplicity and elegance, highlighting Nina’s ability to transform any song into something uniquely her own.

4. “Either Way I Lose”

Found on the album “Wild Is The Wind” (1966, Philips Records), this ballad is a beautiful showcase of Nina’s emotional expression. The song, written by Van McCoy, speaks of a painful love triangle, and Nina’s delivery is both heartbreaking and powerful. The minimalistic arrangement allows her voice to take center stage, conveying the depth of the lyrics perfectly. This song is a personal favorite for its raw emotional power and lyrical beauty.

5. “22nd Century”

An epic 14-minute journey, this track from “Tell It Like It Is” (1968, RCA Records) is a profound exploration of societal issues and the future. Nina’s voice, combined with a hypnotic, repetitive musical motif, creates a mesmerizing and thought-provoking experience. The song’s futuristic and apocalyptic themes showcase Nina’s fearless approach to music and her ability to tackle complex topics. I find this song fascinating for its ambitious scope and its relevance even today.

6. “I Can’t See Nobody”

From “Here Comes the Sun” (1971, RCA Records), this Bee Gees cover is transformed by Nina’s soulful and emotive interpretation. Her powerful vocals bring a new depth to the song’s lyrics about longing and heartache. The arrangement, featuring a blend of piano and strings, complements her voice perfectly. I chose this song for its emotional intensity and Nina’s skill in making a cover her own.

7. “The Desperate Ones”

Featured on “To Love Somebody” (1969, RCA Records), this song is a cover of a Jacques Brel composition. Nina’s rendition is hauntingly beautiful, filled with a sense of longing and despair. The orchestration is dramatic yet subtle, allowing her voice to soar and delve into the song’s emotional core. This track stands out for its theatrical quality and Nina’s ability to convey deep emotions through her music.

8. “Everyone’s Gone to the Moon”

This track from “Nina Simone Sings the Blues” (1967, RCA Records) is a whimsical and dreamy interpretation of Jonathan King’s song. Nina’s version is slower and more contemplative, turning the pop tune into a soulful ballad. The gentle piano accompaniment and her rich, expressive vocals make this song a unique and captivating listen. I love it for its dreamlike quality and Nina’s skillful reinterpretation of a popular song.

9. “Obeah Woman”

From the album “It Is Finished” (1974, RCA Records), “Obeah Woman” is a blend of jazz, blues, and Afro-Caribbean rhythms. This song is an exploration of African spirituality and female empowerment. The percussion-driven track, combined with Nina’s powerful vocals, creates a hypnotic and otherworldly atmosphere. I find this song intriguing for its cultural depth and Nina’s ability to bring diverse influences into her music.

10. “Keeper of the Flame”

This title track from “High Priestess of Soul” (1967, Philips Records) is a powerful anthem of self-reliance and strength. Written by Charles Derringer, the song features a dynamic arrangement that complements Nina’s commanding vocal performance. The lyrics speak of resilience and determination, themes often present in Nina’s work. I admire this song for its empowering message and Nina’s passionate delivery.

11. “Do I Move You?”

From “Nina Simone Sings the Blues” (1967, RCA Records), this track is a sultry blues number written by Nina herself. The song’s straightforward, provocative lyrics, combined with a simple yet effective blues arrangement, showcase her ability to craft a compelling narrative. Nina’s voice, both seductive and commanding, makes this song a standout in her blues repertoire. I chose it for its raw energy and Nina’s talent as a songwriter.

Fun Facts: Underrated Nina Simone

“Blackbird”

• Unique Interpretation: Unlike the Beatles’ song of the same name, Nina Simone’s “Blackbird” carries a different tune and message. It’s a testament to her ability to craft unique interpretations and convey powerful messages through her music.

“Funkier Than a Mosquito’s Tweeter”

• Family Connection: This song was written by Nina’s brother, Sam Waymon, showing the musical talent ran deep in the family. It’s a wonderful example of how family ties can influence and enrich an artist’s work.

“Turn Me On”

• Cover Magic: Nina Simone was known for her incredible covers, and “Turn Me On” is no exception. Her ability to transform existing songs into something entirely new and captivating is a hallmark of her musical genius.

“Either Way I Lose”

• Emotional Depth: This song, with its heart-wrenching lyrics and Nina’s emotive delivery, is often cited as a perfect example of her ability to convey deep emotions through music. It showcases her skill in connecting with the listener on a profound level.

“22nd Century”

• Epic Length: At 14 minutes long, “22nd Century” stands out as one of the longest tracks in Nina Simone’s discography. Its length adds to the song’s mesmerizing quality and allows for a deep exploration of its themes.

“I Can’t See Nobody”

• Transformative Covers: Once again, Nina Simone demonstrates her unique ability to take a song and make it entirely her own. Her version of this Bee Gees track is a testament to her skill in reinterpreting and personalizing music.

“The Desperate Ones”

• Dramatic Flair: This song reflects Nina’s ability to infuse drama and intensity into her music. Her interpretation of Jacques Brel’s composition is both haunting and beautiful, highlighting her theatrical approach to song delivery.

“Everyone’s Gone to the Moon”

• Dreamy Rendition: Nina Simone’s version of this song turns a pop tune into a soulful, contemplative ballad. It’s a wonderful example of how she could take a well-known song and give it a completely new feel.

“Obeah Woman”

• Cultural Exploration: In “Obeah Woman,” Nina Simone delves into African spirituality and themes of empowerment. The song is a fusion of various musical styles and showcases her willingness to explore and celebrate different cultures in her music.

“Keeper of the Flame”

• Empowering Anthem: This song stands as a powerful anthem of self-reliance and resilience. It’s reflective of Nina Simone’s own strength and determination, both in her music and her life.

“Do I Move You?”

• Songwriting Prowess: As one of the tracks written by Nina Simone herself, “Do I Move You?” demonstrates her talent not just as a performer, but also as a songwriter. It’s a raw and seductive blues number that perfectly captures her artistry.

And there you have it, folks – a journey through the lesser-known but equally enchanting songs of Nina Simone. These tracks not only deepen our appreciation for her artistry but also remind us of the breadth of her musical genius. Keep exploring and stay tuned for more musical treasures!

Thanks for reading.

TBone