The Progressive Underground Pick of the Week: ‘Why? (The King of Love is Dead)’ by Nina Simone
In “Why?” Simone channels the collective grief of the civil rights movement, while also challenging her audience to continue the fight for equality.
Nina Simone
As we honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. today, there’s no better track to highlight than Nina Simone’s poignant and soul-stirring tribute, “Why? (The King of Love is Dead).”
Recorded just days after Dr. King’s assassination in April 1968, this powerful piece is not just a song but a raw and emotional snapshot of a nation grappling with loss and injustice.
Simone first performed “Why?” live at the Westbury Music Fair in New York. Written by her bassist Gene Taylor, the song captures the anguish, confusion, and resilience of a movement mourning its leader. Simone’s haunting vocal delivery, paired with the somber and heartfelt instrumentation, turns this performance into a timeless cry for justice and equality.
With lyrics that ask: “Will the murders never cease? Are they men or are they beasts?” the song pulls no punches. Simone channels the collective grief of the civil rights movement, while also challenging her audience to continue the fight for equality and love.
As we reflect on Dr. King’s enduring legacy today, let’s remember the power of art and music to not only document history but inspire change.
If thought-provoking, soul-stirring music like this resonates with you, make sure to tune into The Progressive Underground. Catch me every Saturday at 6 p.m. on 101.9 WDET or stream us worldwide at wdet.org. Together, we’ll explore the rich soundscapes of progressive soul, nu-jazz, deep house, and rare grooves that elevate the spirit and move the soul.
For The Progressive Underground, I’m Chris Campbell. Stay inspired, stay united, and let’s keep Dr. King’s dream alive.
Read more from The Progressive Underground:
- The Progressive Underground Pick of the Week (Jan. 11): ‘Listen’ by Brainstory
- Erykah Badu’s ‘Mama’s Gun’ is a soulful shot heard around the world
- Pick of the Week (Jan. 4): ‘You Make Me Feel (Mighty Real)’ by Moses Sumney
