The Meaning Behind The Song: Miss Simone by Sara Bareilles
| Title | Artist | Writer/Composer | Album | Release Date | Genre | Producer |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Miss Simone | Sara Bareilles | Lori McKenna & Sara Bareilles | Amidst the Chaos | April 5, 2019 | Pop | T Bone Burnett |
The intimate and infinite “Miss Simone” finds Sara Bareilles reflecting on the solace found in a steady relationship, making parallels between the enduring love she has with her partner and the enduring songs of musician Nina Simone.
Simone is regarded as one of the most influential recording artists of the 20th century, with her work as a musician and civil rights activist inspiring many other well-known artists since. Jim Fusilli of The Wall Street Journal wrote about Nina Simone’s continued relevance, saying her music “didn’t adhere to ephemeral trends, it isn’t a relic of a bygone era; her vocal delivery and technical skills as a pianist still dazzle; and her emotional performances have a visceral impact.”
In this track, Bareilles sees her love the same way. She describes different stages of her relationship—starting as “strangers in a brand new city,” then building a home together, and ultimately becoming “old and gray”—and follows each one with a chorus that evokes and approximates lyrics from Simone’s “I Want A Little Sugar In My Bowl”, letting the classic tune serve as an emotional touchstone over the years. The outside world may change for better or worse, but Bareilles finds comfort in the knowledge that she’ll always have the same love and the same song waiting at home.
Speaking from personal experience, “Miss Simone” resonates deeply with me. Like Bareilles, I have found solace and comfort in a steady relationship. The song beautifully captures the essence of a love that withstands time, and it reminds me of the moments I’ve shared with my partner, creating a sense of nostalgia and gratitude.
Throughout the song, Bareilles paints vivid pictures with her lyrics. In the first verse, she describes smiles in the morning, an apartment on the second story, and the feeling of being strangers in a new city. These details set the scene for a blossoming love story, where two people find each other amidst the chaos of life.
The chorus, inspired by Nina Simone’s lyrics, adds a layer of depth and emotion. Bareilles sings, “Pour some sugar in my bowl, baby,” a direct reference to Simone’s song. It’s a poetic way of expressing desire and intimacy within a relationship. The imagery of dancing all night on a rooftop, with only Miss Simone as a witness, creates a sense of intimacy and secrecy, as if their love is a hidden treasure.
As the song progresses, Bareilles navigates through different stages of the relationship. Moving boxes cover the floor in the second verse, symbolizing the transition from a new beginning to a home filled with memories. The lyrics capture the growth and stability that comes with time, as the couple learns to navigate life together.
The bridge of the song poses a question: “How’d she know what a heart sounds like?” Bareilles marvels at the emotional connection shared with her partner, comparing it to the flickering glow of a candle on a rooftop under the moonlight. It’s a tender and romantic moment, highlighting the depth of their love.
As the song nears its end, Bareilles looks forward to the future. She envisions growing old together, sifting through their yesterdays and cherishing memories. The song becomes a promise, a reminder that they will always have each other and the memories they’ve created.
In terms of the musical arrangement, “Miss Simone” is a beautiful blend of Bareilles’ signature piano-driven sound and heartfelt lyrics. The production by T Bone Burnett perfectly captures the emotion and intimacy of the song, allowing Bareilles’ soulful vocals to shine through.
In conclusion, “Miss Simone” by Sara Bareilles is a heartfelt and intimate exploration of a lasting love. Through her lyrics and inspired references to Nina Simone, Bareilles paints a beautiful picture of a relationship that stands the test of time. This song resonates deeply with anyone who has found comfort and solace in a steady partnership, reminding us of the power of love and the enduring memories we create with our loved ones.
