Meshell Ndegeocello: A Dedication to Nina Simone

From KCRW DJ Anthony Valadez:

Trying to explain Meshell Ndegeocello to my friends is never easy.

Each new album carries a new path of artistry and exploration through her music that is never like the last.

“Bitter” made me want to just drive as far East as possible while her lyrics vented hurt and pain. “Comfort Woman” made me want to fall in love. And “Weather” made me want to hang out next to the beach at night.

And after hearing “Pour Une Ame Souveraine / A Tribute to Nina Simone” I just want to sit on my couch and be happy.

Meshell works her magic on her latest release. Meshell not only covers the material, but adds her signature tone and warmth with standout tracks such as “Please Don’t Let Me

Be Misunderstood” and “Feelin Good“.

Nina’s voice was always genuine and sincere, while Meshell’s carries honesty — carefully placing her emotion into every line on this album.

It’s also nice to see Meshell team up with Cody Chesnutt for a rendition of “To Be Young, Gifted and Black“.

Seeing these two work together has been on my wish list for some years.

Meshell Ndegeocello “To Be Young, Gifted and Black” feat. Cody ChestnuTT by okayplayer

And there is something to be said for the album’s art work. Radiant lights in a haze off from a distance grace the album cover. Perhaps Meshell is telling us something? Or maybe I’m just reading into this way too much!

— Anthony Valadez