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Paul “Fingerstyle” Bowman opened the event (Photo by Grant Langston)

Mimosas served by Carri Bass Nina Simone Plaza (Photo by Grant Langston)

Cruz the Dame performed along with area musicians (Photo by Grant Langston)

Live music and donor bricks installed on the 20th anniversary of her passing

TRYON – On Friday, April 21, the town of Tryon celebrated its most famous citizen at Nina Simone Plaza, located at 54 S. Trade St.

On the 20th anniversary of Nina Simon’s passing, fans enjoyed live music and mimosas as engraved donor bricks were installed at the plaza.

Paul “Fingerstyle” Bowman opened the event with his classical guitar music, followed by Daryle Rice with a more bluesy performance. Cruz the Dame also performed songs with both musicians. 

There was also a special appearance by the “British Ambassador of Soul” David Nathan, a close friend of Simone’s and founder of her first fan club.

“Nina Simone is someone that I didn’t grow up listening to a lot, but when I studied [music], her music was certainly important to me,” said Bowman.

Born Eunice Kathleen Waymon in 1933, Simone was a civil rights activist and pioneer in jazz and blues until her death in 2003.  

“I’ve been here eight years, and I’ve been [to a Simone event] every year,” said Tryon local Carrie Bass. “Nina is Tryon.”

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