This album is significant in so many ways.
Firstly her skill at interpreting contemporary folk and pop songs and interpreting them in her jazz, blues and gospel style - that make them even more captivating.
Secondly it reflects the times and the social and political upheavals going on at the time - and her voicing for change.
Notably “Revolution” Parts 1 and 2 - released around the same time as John Lennon’s Beatles version.
Its a driving track with some similarities - but different lyrics.
John Lennon was quoted as saying:
“I thought it was interesting that Nina Simone did a sort of answer to "Revolution".
That was very good–it was sort of like "Revolution," but not quite. That I sort of enjoyed, somebody who reacted immediately to what I had said.”
Nina commented succinctly:
“It's about barriers being broken down, and they sure as hell need getting rid of”
The title track “To Love Somebody” is her take on the Bee Gees song released in 1967 - however she takes it to more powerful jazz fusion feel with strong syncopation.
That would presage the development on jazz in the next few years with jazz crossing over into rock and fusion (think Miles Davis “Bitches Brew” and his 1970 Isle of Wight Festival performance and band)
Leonard Cohens’ “Suzanne” becomes a spiritual with a plaintive vocal and classical flourishes on the piano - she truly makes it her own.
Pete Seeger's “Turn! Turn! Turn!” (made a hit by The Byrds)- emphasizes the feel of a freedom song with angelic soulful backing vocals - and her sensitive vocal take on the melody.
Bob Dylans’ ‘I Shall Be Released” takes on a more soulful feel again with beautiful Motown style backing vocals.
It's a beautiful album in so many ways and kudos to the great band she had at that time.
Watch “Summer of Soul” her 1969 live performance in New York - and you can really appreciate the dynamics between the players and “The High Priestess of Soul”
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