Birthplace of Nina Simone

Here we are in Tryon, a North Carolina mountain town not too far from Asheville. Born in this house in a poor neighborhood on the top of a hill was Eunice Kathleen Waymon, on this very day, February, 21, in 1933. I didn't realize it was her birthday until I began writing this. Quite a coincidence!

She changed her name to Nina Simone in the 1950s when she began working in an Atlantic City club. She was a pianist, composer, singer, arranger and civil rights activist.

In the Tryon town square is a statue of Nina Simone. The few folks we talked to in town seem proud to have her as a native. Please look at her bio at ninasimone.com.

So far I have blipped jazz musicians with Carolina roots that include John Coltrane, Billy Strayhorn, and Thelonious Monk. More to come!

We are in Asheville this weekend for a concert by the Irish band, Dervish! Hopefully, if I ever get home, I will post more images from this site, and additional shots from Costa Rica.

Have a great weekend!