Southern Trees...

I just learned what the words to the song Strange Fruit are about. The song has been sung by Billie Holiday, Nina Simone and Jeff Buckley. I only have the last two versions and if you have them, you should listen to them--back to back. When I did, I suddenly realized what a great pairing Nina Simone and Jeff Buckley are. Both are very stripped down vocalists who let their singing take center stage. Occasionally, Jeff adds some amazing guitar, but, more often than not, his voice (particularly flying high falsetto) capture the attention. Nina Simone, on the other hand, has amazing low tones that rip your heart out. Together, they're the musical equivalent of wine and cheese.