Unveiling the Origins of "Feeling Good"

The timeless anthem, "Feeling Good," has captivated global audiences for decades. In this post I would like to get deeper into the mystery behind its origins, exploring its roots in the musical "The Roar of the Greasepaint." and the political and social reivindications that are behind the song.

The song was crafted in 1960s for a musical called " The Roar of the GreasePaint". This song was originally associated with a character named "Negro." (...)

The character is placed strategically in a perpetually disadvantaged position within the narrative. "Negro" symbolises the unequal footing many experienced. Unable to partake in the game at the same level of the other participants, this character finds solace in expressing emotions and frustration through the poignant performance of "Feeling Good."

Nina Simone most probably recognized herself in this narrative, since she has had several experience with racism during her life. Between others, the one that I feel she highlights as the most difficult, the one of not getting admission in the Institute Curtis as she explains in this clip.

Alongside with her arranger Leonard Haal, she reimagined "Feeling Good" on her album I put a spell on you" creating a version that transcended the boundaries of time and changed the course of music history.

Major part of the songs that Nina Simone performed had a porwerful message behind, and I really like to know that, this one, which seems far away from this narrative, has actually a political rev-indication behind too.

Next time you listen, remember the journey behind this beautiful composition and how artist has tried for many years express with their songs change.