Spanning a range of musical genres, including rhythm and blues, soul, classical and jazz, the late Nina Simone was renowned for using her musical platform to send culturally significant messages. Her words empowered women and men alike, as much of her recordings from the 1960s, which became protest songs, did – and still do – reflect the times. “I think women play a major part in opening the doors for better understanding around the world,” the civil rights activist, musician and songwriter once said.
Reflecting on the words and work of Nina Simone, Queen Ifrica told The Gleaner: “To elaborate a little, women throughout history have been known to stand up in resistance against injustice of all sorts; we are great problem-solvers and can be awesome critical thinkers.”
Queen Ifrica is one of seven women featured on Celebrating Nina: A Reggae Tribute to Nina Simone, produced by Grammy Award-winning artiste Stephen Marley. The first single released from the EP, which renders the iconic songstress’ revolutionary songs over one-drop reggae rhythms, was Queen Ifrica’s version of Four Women. It was released on April 26, 2021, the 52nd anniversary of the recording of the 1969 album Nina Simone Live At Berkley.
She shared that it was a pleasure to work with Stephen Marley on the song. The project is relevant, not only because March is Women’s History Month, but as a reminder to black women of the role she plays in self-identity, Queen Ifrica said.
GREATEST TEACHER
“Her music is underappreciated. She was the change she wanted to see, and her music should be introduced to the youth, no matter the gender. Music in general has always helped because of the reach it has. It is the first language we all speak; our young people are always ready to learn, and music is the greatest teacher there is,” she said.
“She used music in a journalistic approach to tell us what she was seeing as it relates to racism,” Queen Ifrica continued. The reggae singer said that if she could go back in time and share in a studio session with Nina Simone, she would have wanted to be there when the cover of Strange Fruit was being recorded. Though not one of her originals, Nina Simone’s low-trembling register carried the powerful lyrics which echoed a mix of emotional experiences, including pain and anger.
Cedella Marley, chief executive officer of the Bob Marley Group of Companies, is also featured on the EP. Her cover of Misunderstood, according to Billboard magazine, is delivered “with soulful elegance”.
Speaking of the EP, Stephen Marley said each woman was paired with the song most representative of their story.
STRENGTH HIGHLIGHTED
“To me, the women on this EP really highlight the strength of a woman, which Nina Simone so beautifully showcased in her music. Each woman on this EP is powerful in their own right. Cedella Marley sings Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood. For her, this song is very fitting as she is a strong woman in a man’s world and often misunderstood. Etana, who we affectionately call the ‘Strong One’, is known for motivating and empowering the youth. So, the selection of Young Gifted and Black was also very fitting for her, as that song celebrates our race and makes black children feel good about themselves. These are all beautiful, strong women and their voices do Nina’s work, and reggae solid,” he told The Gleaner.
Celebrating Nina: A Reggae Tribute to Nina Simone was made available for pre-order last Friday, and Etana’s cover of Young, Gifted and Black released simultaneously across all digital streaming platforms. The 2022 Grammy-nominated singer is featured belting out her version of a song which was dubbed a civil rights anthem. She explained that growing up in the United States, it was almost impossible to be unaware of Nina Simone.
“I migrated to the US when I was nine. I heard of her in choir class during my years in middle school and used to learn and sing her songs,” Etana shared.
It would not be the first reggae cover of Young, Gifted and Black. The vocal duo Bob Andy and Marcia Griffiths recorded their rendition in 1970, not long after Nina Simone released the song. The reggae artistes achieved a top five hit in the United Kingdom.
“I have been lucky enough to tell Marcia Griffiths how much I love her spirit and admire her. I can only wish I could do the same to Nina Simone. I admire both women. I can say that I tried to do my own version with the meaning of the song in mind,” Etana said.
“There are great black women and men who have made significant contributions throughout the world. Nina Simone is one of them, and her story and songs can be used to inspire the younger generation. I certainly think it is important to note the contribution of Nina Simone’s music and her role in the civil rights movement,” she continued.
Other dynamic female voices featured on the project are Melanie Fiona, Joss Stone, Maya Azucena, and Terri Walker.
Celebrating Nina: A Reggae Tribute to Nina Simone will be released on March 18 on the Ghetto Youths International imprint.
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