Nina Simone’s Popular Songs Ranking [2025]

Memphis in JuneNina Simone8rank/position

Memphis in June

A relaxed, sweet jazz tune.

This track by legendary jazz singer Nina Simmons carries a smooth, heartfelt mood that goes beyond the bounds of jazz, evoking elements of gospel, R&B, and more.

Her husky yet silky voice, backed by remarkable vocal prowess, overflows with expressive richness.

The mellow atmosphere is so soothing you might just drift off to sleep before you know it.

SummertimeNina Simone9rank/position

Nina Simone – Summertime

Composed by George Gershwin in 1935 for the opera Porgy and Bess, with lyrics by DuBose Heyward.

It is known as a jazz standard.

It has been widely sung across genres such as pop and rock, resulting in numerous cover versions.

Don’t ExplainNina Simone10rank/position

Nina Simone Don’t Explain

Here is a song created by the famous jazz singer Billie Holiday and Arthur Herzog Jr.

Its lyrics tell a man who’s making excuses for cheating not to make excuses.

For listeners in Japan who are familiar with genres like enka, it might resonate more naturally than expected.

It’s one of the standard songs that has long been loved and performed by many jazz singers.

Nina Simone’s distinctive voice makes this song even more captivating.

Funkier Than a Mosquito’s TweeterNina Simone11rank/position

Nina Simone – Funkier Than A Mosquito’s Tweeter (Audio)

This 1974 hit by Nina Simone is a pinnacle of funk and soul.

Its lyrics deliver a scathing critique of falsehood and hypocrisy, and it’s distinguished by a unique sound that fuses soul, funk, and jazz.

Producer Allen Toussaint’s deft use of instrumentation also shines.

The track is included on the album It Is Finished and drew major attention upon its release.

It’s a classic used in breakdancing and was even featured at the Paris 2024 Olympics, continuing to be loved by many fans.

Packed with a powerful message and singular expressiveness, this is a must-recommend song for anyone with a strong social consciousness.

It Might as Well Be SpringNina Simone12rank/position

It Might as Well Be Spring (Remastered)

A jazz standard that has been covered by countless singers.

Its Japanese title is “Like Spring,” and it first appeared in a musical film released in 1945.

The version by Nina Simone, one of America’s most iconic female singers, carries a nostalgic atmosphere with a touch of melancholy.

Give it a listen when you’re feeling just a little sentimental.

Another SpringNina Simone13rank/position

Another Spring

Nina Simone, the greatest artist America let slip through its fingers.

There are many artists who found commercial success and earned respect, but in the U.

S.

, it’s rare to see someone respected purely for their sheer ability the way she is.

Her vocals have a deep timbre and boast outstanding expressive power.

The song here, “Another Spring,” is one of her works themed around spring.

Though it’s a relatively minor track, it remains a classic still talked about among music aficionados today.

Chilly Winds Don’t BlowNina Simone14rank/position

Nina Simone – Chilly Winds Don’t Blow

Chilly Winds Don’t Blow, released in 1959 by American jazz singer Nina Simone.

This is a jazz song you’ll want to hear in winter, with her soulful voice that stirs the heart.

True to its title, which means “cold winds don’t blow,” her singing carries a strength that seems to blow the chill away.

When you’re worn out by the winter cold or stressed by the year-end rush, listening to this track is sure to lift your spirits in no time!