June Songs: A Confluence Playlist - #1. MISSISSIPPI GODDAM (Nina Simone)

It’s rather hard to believe that June has arrived, but here we are. As the necessary social distancing continues, I thought I would compile an eclectic list of songs that might make a “concert for the ages”. The word “song” is so simple, though it’s so often used incorrectly (to describe a Mahler symphony on iTunes for instance) or in a limiting way. Throughout this month, we’ll put together a program of great and significant songs throughout the ages, totally subjective, of course, but designed to celebrate the simplicity, beauty, power and miracle of the human voice.

June Song #1
MISSISSIPPI GODDAM, Nina Simone

It seems strangely appropriate to begin with one of the most underrated songwriters of the 20th century, Nina Simone. Simone recorded over 40 albums during a long and distinguished career. She was a fabulous pianist, an extraordinary singer, a first-rate songwriter and an uncompromising champion of civil rights. Her song Mississippi Goddam was written in 1964 as a response to the murder of the activist Medgar Evers in Mississippi and is an angry and powerful cry for racial equality.

It’s a masterpiece and a strong condemnation of systemic racism. We all need to hear it. And act.

Larry Beckwith