Nina Simone's enduring status amongst contemporary musicians speaks to her musicality but also to her single-mindedness, her unique vision, the artistic integrity and power she brought to her lengthy career.
The performances captured here show her approaching the peak of her powers. First in the Netherlands with her 1965 ensemble featuring Rudy Stevenson on guitar and flute and then in Chicago in 1969 with the same group that she took to the Harlem Cultural Festival, recently celebrated in the Summer Of Soul documentary. Performed live in the Netherlands (1965) and Chicago (1969).
Mickery Theatre, Loenersloot, Netherlands, December 25th 1965, VPRO/VARA: Nina Simone - piano, vocals; Rudy Stevenson - guitar, flute; Lisle Atkinson - bass; Bobby Hamilton - drums.
Orchestra Hall, Chicago, 1969, WPIX-FM: Nina Simone - piano, vocals; Weldon J. Irvine - organ; Al Shackman - guitar; Gene A. Perla - bass; Don Alias - drums; Jumma Santos - congas.