NINA SIMONE (1933-2003)

She was a Juilliard-trained classical pianist. A outspoken civil rights activist.  An accomplished jazz, blues and folk singer. A composer and lyrics writer. She was widely known for her appearances at Carnegie Hall and smoky lounges across the world.

One of her own creations, Mississippi Goddam, became a signature piece for her position on civil rights.  I don’t know why, but a few words from that song popped up on my screen this week.  And I was struck by their power.  Not just as they pertained to civil rights all those years ago but for their relevance in today’s world. She wrote:

Why can’t you see it?

Why can’t you feel it?

It’s all in the air.

Somebody say a prayer.