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"Mississippi Goddam"
Mississippi Goddam.jpeg
The sleeve for the promo release of the single
Song by Nina Simone
from the album Nina Simone in Concert
Released 1964
Recorded New York City, live at Carnegie Hall
Label Philips Records
Songwriter(s) Nina Simone
Composer(s) Nina Simone
Producer(s) Hal Mooney

"Mississippi Goddam" is a powerful song written and sung by the American artist Nina Simone. She called it her "first civil rights song." It was released in 1964 on her album Nina Simone in Concert. This album was recorded live at three concerts she gave at Carnegie Hall in New York City. The song showed how Nina Simone's music was becoming more focused on important social issues.

About "Mississippi Goddam"

Nina Simone wrote "Mississippi Goddam" very quickly, in less than an hour. It became one of her most famous protest songs. Other well-known protest songs she wrote include "Ain't Got No, I Got Life", "Four Women", and "To Be Young, Gifted and Black".

In 2019, "Mississippi Goddam" was chosen by the Library of Congress. It was added to the National Recording Registry. This means it is considered "culturally, historically, or aesthetically significant." It is an important part of American history and music.

The Song's Lasting Message

"Mississippi Goddam" continues to be an important song today. It speaks to people who feel frustrated by unfairness. Nina Simone wrote the song out of strong feelings. She once said she felt like she had to either "take up arms" or write this song. Many people still feel this way when they see problems in the world.

In 2021, the song was recognized as one of the greatest. It was listed at number 172 on Rolling Stone magazine's "Top 500 Greatest Songs of All Time." This shows its lasting impact on music and society.

See also

  • Civil rights movement in popular culture
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