In 1996, Ann and I were walking through the streets of Siena in the ruddy evening sunlight after returning from a day trip to Firenze. As we neared a record store, we head what we later learned was “My Baby Just Cares for Me” played by Nina Simone being played inside the store as well as outside on their external speaker. On impulse, we just started dancing to the song right there and then in the street. We went into the store to find out what the song was so we could make sure we could buy it when we got home.

In 1999, when we got married, we played that song for our first dance at the reception. It has always remained a favorite of ours.

Nina Simone died at the age of 70 in her sleep last night. Rest in peace.