What Happened, Miss Simone?

What Happened, Miss Simone? is a biographical documentary film released in 2015, directed by Liz Garbus. The film is a deeply personal and poignant portrait of the life and career of the incomparable Nina Simone, a musical icon and activist who left an indelible mark on the world. Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon on February 21, 1933, in North Carolina, Nina grew up in a household where music was a staple. Her mother, Mary Anne, a devout Christian, encouraged Nina's passion for music from an early age. Despite facing racial segregation and limited opportunities, Nina demonstrated exceptional talent as a pianist. At the age of eight, she began performing in church choirs and concerts, quickly gaining recognition for her impressive skills. The film takes the viewer through Nina's formative years, showcasing the early signs of her incredible gift. Nina's talent earned her a scholarship to the prestigious Juilliard School in New York City, one of the country's most esteemed music institutions. However, due to racial bias, the institution refused to allow a black student to perform publicly. This setback, coupled with Nina's own sense of inadequacy, would shape her future decisions and struggles. Nina's journey took a dramatic turn when she took the stage name Simone, a nod to her husband, André Dekeudez, a French man she briefly married. She began to gain recognition for her powerful, emotive voice and distinctive style, which blended elements of classical, jazz, and folk music. Her unique sound captivated audiences worldwide, particularly with her 1960 hit single "My Baby Just Cares for Me." However, Nina's meteoric rise to fame was accompanied by increasingly intense feelings of frustration and disillusionment. As she witnessed the racial injustices and systemic inequalities faced by African Americans, she became a passionate advocate for civil rights. Her music became a catalyst for activism, and she found herself at the forefront of the movement, performing at iconic events like the 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. Through archival footage and intimate conversations with Nina, What Happened, Miss Simone? chronicles her complicated relationship with her husband, Andy Stroud, a police officer. Their marriage was volatile, with Andy often exhibiting possessive and controlling behavior. Despite these challenges, Nina continued to pursue her art, fueled by her unwavering passion and commitment to social justice. In the 1960s and 1970s, Nina's activism became even more pronounced, as she used her platform to speak out against racism, sexism, and inequality. Her music addressed the pain and struggle she endured, with songs like "Four Women" and "To Be Young, Gifted and Black" serving as anthems for generations of marginalized communities. Throughout her career, Nina faced numerous personal and professional challenges, including a tumultuous marriage, addiction, and a series of personal and artistic crises. Despite these setbacks, her resilience and determination kept her going, even as she grappled with feelings of isolation and disconnection. Tragically, Nina's life was cut short on April 21, 2003, due to complications from Alzheimer's disease. At the time of her passing, she was 70 years old. As a testament to her enduring legacy, What Happened, Miss Simone? offers a poignant tribute to her remarkable life, music, and activism. The film's narrative is woven together through a combination of personal reflections, archival footage, and interviews with those close to Nina, including her friends, family members, and colleagues. What emerges is a rich tapestry of stories, struggles, and triumphs, providing a nuanced understanding of the complexities that defined Nina's life. Throughout What Happened, Miss Simone?, it becomes clear that Nina's legacy extends far beyond her remarkable music. She was a trailblazing artist and activist who paved the way for countless others, inspiring generations to challenge the status quo and fight for human rights. In its poignant portrayal of Nina's life, the film reminds us that her impact will be felt for years to come, her music serving as a testament to the transformative power of art to shape our world.