Nina Simone – “Feeling Good”

(Picture courtesy Late Voice)

This song has been in my head since hearing it for the first time on Pandora. Yes, it’s a shame that I’m only hearing it now, after being exposed to so many other great classic songs of the same era, albeit different genres. Finally, a chance to hear this jazz standard by one of the most unique, talented voices of all time.

I will admit that, of the 50s and 60s, artists like Aretha, Elvis, Ray Charles, Bo Diddley, and Chuck Berry were all more my style. I can admire jazz singers though, especially songs that transcend genres and generations. But I never got into the singing side of jazz. Believe it or not, I had several Miles Davis and John Coltrane albums though. A different kind of jazz, my brain likes to think.

I’m no expert, but if I were to start learning, I think Nina Simone is a good introductory class.