#75. Nina Simone | Wild is the Wind (1966)

I've always loved Nina Simone. She could be just as bluesy as Billie Holiday and just as jazzy as Ella Fitzgerald. But some would argue that she was never as consistent as either.

For example, this album is a collection of left-over studio and live recordings from '64 - '65 and ranges from jazz ballads to traditional folk songs, from the near-calypso sound of "Why Keep On Breaking My Heart" to the somber title track. But, for me, this album shows off her incredible range. Especially on the self-penned, "Four Women," a series of four vignettes that reflect common stereotypes of African-American women. They are: the hard-working, but never appreciated Aunt Sarah, the mixed-race Saffronia, the prostitute Sweet Thing, and the angry and bitter Peaches.

A few years ago, my then-roommates Chris & Paul loaned me a copy of Nina Simone: An Anthology and I immediately fell in love with her voice. She does a cover of The Beatles' "Here Comes The Sun" that rivals George Harrison. So, thanks Chris & Paul, and you guys should definitely check out this album!

Track Listing:
01. I Love Your Lovin' Ways
02. Four Women
03. What More Can I Say
04. Lilac Wine
05. That's All I Ask
06. Break Down And Let It All Out
07. Why Keep On Breaking My Heart
08. Wild Is The Wind
09. Black Is The Color Of My True Love's Hair
10. Either Way I Lose
11. If I Should Lose You