Nina Simone – Forbidden Fruit

Forbidden Fruit, released in 1961 on the Colpix label, is Nina Simone’s third studio album and a vivid example of her genre-defying artistry. Seamlessly blending jazz, blues, folk, and pop, Simone delivers a collection that feels both timeless and immediate, carried by her commanding piano playing and distinctive, expressive voice. The album includes her interpretations of standards like Gin House Blues and Work Song, where she infuses familiar material with intensity and nuance.

What makes Forbidden Fruit especially compelling is the way Simone moves between moods and styles with ease—playful one moment, deeply soulful the next. Her ability to merge technical mastery with raw emotional honesty shines throughout, making the album both an accessible entry point for new listeners and a rewarding experience for longtime fans. It stands as an early showcase of the breadth and depth that would define her career.

Reviews:

“Forbidden Fruit finds Simone expanding her repertoire while still staying true to the blend of jazz, blues, and folk that defined her sound.” – AllMusic

“Simone’s interpretations here are powerful, turning traditional material into something entirely her own.” – The Guardian

“Her voice commands attention, moving effortlessly between warmth, sorrow, and defiance.” – Rolling Stone