• Little Girl Blue, released in 1957, was Nina Simone’s first recording ever. It was originally issued on the Bethlehem label and features the singer and pianist backed by bassist Jimmy Bond (who had been a member of the Chet Baker Quartet among other groups) and drummer Albert “Tootie” Heath, one of the celebrated Heath brothers (the other two being saxophonist Jimmy Heath, and bassist Percy Heath). Many of the tracks from this LP would become true classics, among them her perennial version of “My Baby Just Cares For Me”. All Music Guide reviewer Thom Jurek gave the album four stars, stating that “Little Girl Blue showcases her ballad voice as one of mystery and sensuality and showcases her up-tempo jazz style with authority and an enigmatic down-home feel that is nonetheless elegant.”