“Sorry about the Words, Y'all”: Nina Simone Covers Brel

Chapter 2 analyzes how Simone’s cover of “Ne me quitte pas” reached audiences that Brel’s could not, breaking through to English speakers and demonstrating the complexities of understanding a song beyond language. As a Black American woman, Simone’s performance adds layers of meaning to a song written from a white Belgian man’s perspective, raising questions about authenticity and ownership. Her embodied emotions, piano playing, and occasional use of English distinguish her version from Brel’s, resonating with diverse audiences and fostering a sense of belonging. At the same time, Simone also embraces the francophone world and navigates the complexities of a global music market. The emotional connections listeners tell and retell about their reaction to this song illustrate how the song’s power transcends time and language barriers, touching the hearts of listeners across generations.