Sometimes I sound like gravel, and sometimes I sound like coffee and cream.
Nina SimoneRead
Did you know that the human voice is the only pure instrument? That it has notes no other instrument has? It's like being between the keys of a piano. The notes are there, you can sing them, but they can't be found on any instrument. That's like me. I live in between this. I live in both worlds, the black and white world.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The quote highlights the uniqueness of the human voice as an instrument that expresses emotions in a way that no other instrument can.
Nina Simone's quote emphasizes the distinctive quality of the human voice, suggesting that it occupies a special place in the realm of musical instruments. She reflects on her ability to convey emotions and experiences that may not be easily captured by conventional musical instruments, like the piano. By identifying with living 'between worlds,' Simone illustrates the complexity of her identity and artistry, suggesting that her voice integrates multiple aspects of her existence and cultural experience.
Themes
Human VoiceMusicIdentityArtistryExpression
In practice
Example use cases
In a speech about the power of music to connect people, one might say, 'As Nina Simone reflected, the human voice is a pure instrument.'
More from Nina Simone
All quotes →Jazz is a white term to define black people. My music is black classical music.
Nina SimoneRead
I only knew classical music, which to me was the only true music. The only way I could survive at the bar was to mix the classical music with popular songs, and that meant I had to sing. What happened was that I discovered I had a voice plus the talent to mix classical music together with more popular songs, which at the time I detested.
Nina SimoneRead
Everything that happened to me as a child involved music. It was part of everyday life, as automatic as breathing.
Nina SimoneRead
I didn't get interested in music. It was a gift from God.
Nina SimoneRead
This may be a dream, but I'll say it anyway: I was supposed to be married last year, and I bought a gown. When I meet Nelson Mandela, I shall put on this gown and have the train of it removed and put aside, and kiss the ground that he walks on and then kiss his feet.
Nina SimoneRead
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