Nina Simone (1933-2003) was a jazz singer, songwriter and civil rights activist. Her recording career spanned from 1958 to 1993, including the albums Little Girl Blue, The Amazing Nina Simone, Nina Simone at Carnegie Hall, and Nina Simone Sings the Blues.
Simone appeared on Sesame Street during the early years of the show, singing "To Be Young, Gifted and Black". (EKA: Episode 0350)