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Jun 26, 2015 By Austin Trunick Web Exclusive

A quote from poet Maya Angelou gives Liz Garbus’ new documentary its title—and succinctly states the film’s objective. With such monumental talent—not only as a pianist and songwriter, but a singer possessing one of jazz’s most distinctive voices—the great Nina Simone should rightly be an even bigger icon than her current legacy belies. By the late 1950s she was topping pop charts; in the 1960s, she and her music had become a part of the Civil Rights movement; but when the 1970s rolled in, Nina Simone seemed to disappear.

Garbus’ revealing documentary not only tracks the musician’s life and rise to stardom, but pulls into focus many of the sad reasons behind Simone’s retreat from the public eye, from her abusive personal relationships to battles with bipolar disorder. Through interviews with bandmates and family members as well as heaps of vintage interviews, letters, and diary entries from Simone herself, the film paints a tragic portrait of one of music’s immense talents.

www.facebook.com/whathappenedmisssimone

Author rating: 7.5/10