MMM | The Wrath of Nina Simone

27 APRIL 2025: At the peak of the civil rights movement a European TV performance of Nina Simone showcases an intense, defining moment about the liberating power of music

In 1965, Nina Simone – jazz icon and high priestess of soul – performed her first concerts in Europe. It is a special moment in the life of the world-famous singer and pianist. She has just become a mother and has joined the protests of the civil rights movement in America against racism and discrimination against the black population. She predominantly writes and sings protest songs, risking her career because her lyrics are considered controversial in America and are even boycotted in some cases. In Europe, she sees the opportunity to express herself freely and tell the stories of the oppression of black people from her homeland. Through television concerts like this one, she reaches an audience of millions.

The film tells of Simone’s beginnings in music, how she transitioned from classical to jazz, and her courage and relentless fight for equality and freedom. “Tomorrow is my turn, no more doubts, no more fears,” Simone sings in a mix of resignation and defiant hope. She hopes that her voice can be part of the change in the situation of the black population in the USA in the 1960s.

Pianist Gabriela Montero and singer Angélique Kidjo explain how music can be an instrument of resistance. Jazz singer Lizz Wright’s work is still strongly influenced by Nina Simone to this day. Opera singer Victoria Randem explains how important Nina Simone was for the generations after her. They all show how important civil courage, authenticity, and emotionality are on stage and how Nina Simone’s legacy continues to have an impact today.

Duration 43 min
Director Magdalena Zieba-Schwind
Producer Lily Küntzle, Claus Wischmann
Co-Producer Christopher Janssen
Production Company ZDF/ARTE, sounding images