THE EDITED PRESS RELEASE: “As part of a year-long celebration of Nina Simone’s 90th birthday, Verve Records have released You’ve Got To Learn, a newly discovered recording of Simone’s performance at the 1966 Newport Jazz Festival.
Recorded on July 2, 1966, the performance featured a legendary six-song set that has remained etched in the memory of music aficionados for over half a century. Now, this previously unknown and unreleased recording of the unforgettable concert is available for the world to hear. The newly released recording captures the essence of Simone’s performance at the festival, showcasing her incredible vocal range and her unparalleled ability to connect with her audience. Listening to this recording, it’s easy to understand why hearing Simone in concert was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Starting with a mesmerizing rendition of You’ve Got To Learn, Simone showcased the full range of her artistry, with an electrifying and uniquely swinging performance of Mississippi Goddam. The audience, unwilling to let her leave the stage, gave her a passionate standing ovation and were rewarded with an unforgettable show-stopping encore of Music For Lovers.
Liner notes for the album are provided by Shana L. Redmond, a respected scholar and author who has written extensively on Simone’s life and legacy. Her notes provide a valuable context for the performance and help listeners understand the historical significance of Simone’s music. The release of this recording is a momentous occasion for music lovers and Simone fans worldwide. It is a rare opportunity to experience the magic of one of the most exceptional performers of the 20th century.”
