Sometimes I sound like gravel, and sometimes I sound like coffee and cream.
Nina SimoneRead
I had spent many years pursuing excellence, because that is what classical music is all about... Now it was dedicated to freedom, and that was far more important.
Interpretation
What this quote means
The pursuit of excellence is important, but the value of freedom surpasses it.
Nina Simone reflects on her journey in classical music, initially focused on achieving excellence. However, as she progressed, she realized that dedicating her art to the concept of freedom held greater significance, emphasizing the importance of expressing oneself beyond technical mastery.
Themes
FreedomMusicExcellenceArtExpression
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech about the power of music in social movements.
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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