Learn English with Nina Simone

Are you familiar with this bittersweet song by magnificent R&B, soul, blues, and jazz artist Nina Simone?

Lyrics

Have a listen and take a look at the lyrics.

The High Priestess of Soul

Were you already familiar with Nina Simone’s music? Here’s a little bit more from the artist!

Biography

Want more?

Nina Simone’s music is a great opportunity to explore African American Vernacular English (AAVE), a variety of the language with its own history and features! You can read and watch more about AAVE here. You can also read the teacher’s reflection on the importance of including materials with diverse varieties of the language here.

What are your thoughts?

Here are some questions to get you thinking!

1. Did you connect with the lyrics of the song? Why or why not?
2. What can Nina Simone’s life and message teach us?

Feel free to share your answers in the comments below!