“Nina Simone was one of the most gifted vocalists of her generation, and also one of the most eclectic. Simone was a singer, pianist, and songwriter who bent genres to her will rather than allowing herself to be confined by their boundaries; her work swung back and forth between jazz, blues, soul, classical, R&B, pop, gospel, and world music, with passion, emotional honesty, and a strong grasp of technique as the constants of her musical career.”
— AllMusic
Tryon is a little far afield, but here’s a preservation effort worth knowing about: The National Trust for Historic Preservation is staging a crowdfunding campaign to preserve Nina Simone’s childhood home in Tryon.
“Despite its rich history at the root of Simone’s legacy, her childhood home in Tryon sat vacant and neglected following previously unsuccessful preservation efforts. In 2017, when demolition appeared to be the only option, four New York-based artists rallied together and purchased the home so that it could be spared from the wrecking ball.
“Today, with the artists’ guidance, the National Trust for Historic Preservation, through its African American Cultural Heritage Action Fund, is working to develop a rehabilitation plan, perform critical exterior stabilization work, and identify future uses and protection for this National Treasure.”
The campaign has reached its initial goal of $25,000 and is on its way to a stretch goal of $50,000. It’s worth supporting.
Nina Simone Weekend in Raleigh: August 16-18
Also, the North Carolina Museum of Art is planning a series of events to recognize Simone’s talent, legacy and spirit. NCMA is producing the events in partnership with the National Trust for Historic Preservation, North Carolina African American Heritage Commission, North Carolina Arts Council, and Come Hear North Carolina (#ComeHearNC)
Piedmont Historic Homes 