Her Naked Truth Shocked Me

When I was an aspiring young artist searching for my voice, purpose, and direction, my early teachers took note of the fire burning in my belly, and they individually fanned the flame into passion, by introducing me to great Black women artists who presented their artistry with clarity and unrestrained courage.

One of those great women was the unmistakable, Ms. Nina Simone.

I am eternally grateful to my teachers for this particular introduction.

When I first heard Nina Simone, her naked truth shocked me. Whenever she sang it felt like lightning bolts in my soul.

Every song was like a movie, a unique and very different vignette.

From the creation of the soundtrack of her peoples struggle, to songs of justice, innocence and lunacy to the limitless facets of love, she examined the total human condition. She was fearless and absolutely believable, because she sang her truth.

In addition to her piercing singing, she was also an impeccable musician.

The intimate way she accompanied herself, made her voice and herpiano inseparable.

Her arranging and compositional skill gave her songs immediate recognition.

I am also encouraged to hear that a biopic of her life is in theworks for the big screen. This will be a tremendous undertaking, for holding true to the spirit and legacy of Ms. Simone requires the utmost dedication and diligence to the intimate details of a very rich and diverse life. I applaud the creators of this forthcoming project.

Nina Simone is a musical genius and a rich and precious treasure, who paid a heavy price for her artistic freedom. A truthful and honest movie of her life will be a glowing tribute to the legacy she left for all of us, a legacy that will inspire generations to come. ~Dianne Reeves~