Grammy Award-winning singer Ledisi received a standing ovation from the audience at a packed August Wilson African American Cultural Center as part of the 13th annual Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival.
The singer-songwriter, music producer, author and actress honored legendary singer Nina Simone during her powerful performance.
Ledisi recently spoke with WBGO News Director Doug Doyle about her career and performing at the Pittsburgh International Jazz Festival.
The New Orleans native says her introduction to the music of Nina Simone came at a early age.
"I used to think my mom wrote 'Mississippi Goddam' the way she would wake us to that song every morning for school. I hated that song. I just thought it was a rhyme she made up and later I learned it was a Nina Simone song. I've grown up around history and understanding the ancestors who came before me. I couldn't help it. The most truthful introduction is when you are ready for them and to understand where that history comes from. I think at Pittsburgh, they are asking me to do the Nina Project, but I will also sneak a few Ledisi songs in there to show that without her I couldn't be me. Also, on my own shows, I've been able to sneak the Nina energy into it and show that audience why I love her so and why did I to that project so that I can honor her in those settings as well."
The Nina Project has resulted in the 15th Grammy nomination for Ledisi. The singer won her first Grammy Award in the Best Traditional R&B Performance category for "Anything for You" in 2021 during the coronavirus pandemic.
"I love Pittsburgh. My producer and long-time friend Rex Rideout is from Pittsburgh. I've done a few festivals there. I love touring there. My best friend Billy Porter is from Pittsburgh. It's a lot of connections there for me and every time I perform there they are so loving, great listeners."
Ledisi is also extremely passionate about being an advocate for the arts. She says she understood that because of the philanthropy of others she was able to study music through scholarships and funded programs.
"That's why I give back and advocate and I make sure it's in the schools, even if its a violin or tambourine, for the students to have something. Before I perform, I try to go visit a school. It matters to me because there's another Ledisi out there doing what I'm doing. So giving back means everything."
You can hear the entire interview with Ledisi here.
