Tumbao Experience Honors Nina Simone’s Legacy with New Single “Love Me or Leave Me”

The Tumbao Experience, a groundbreaking project that blends the timeless sounds of American jazz with the rich rhythms of Afro-Cuban music, is set to release a unique tribute to the legendary Nina Simone. On February 21, 2026, to mark Simone’s birthday, the musical collective will unveil “Love Me or Leave Me,” a stunning re-imagining of Simone’s classic song through the lens of Afro-Cuban jazz.

A Legendary Voice Reborn

Nina Simone, born Eunice Kathleen Waymon on February 21, 1933, in Tryon, North Carolina, has long been revered for her powerful voice and impactful contributions to music and civil rights. Known for songs like “Feeling Good” and “I Put a Spell on You,” Simone’s voice continues to resonate with listeners around the world, transcending time and place. This latest release, “Love Me or Leave Me,” sees her original vocals woven into a fresh Afro-Cuban arrangement, created under the musical direction of Demetrio Muñiz, who is also renowned for his work with the Buena Vista Social Club.

What makes this release truly special, however, is the participation of Dr. Samuel Waymon, Simone’s brother. Waymon, a lifelong collaborator and manager for Nina, adds his own voice to the track, creating an emotional duet with his late sister. This intimate performance is a powerful tribute to their enduring sibling connection, as well as a testament to the power of family and music. Dr. Waymon’s involvement ensures that the authenticity of Nina Simone’s work remains intact, honoring her spirit and musical legacy.

Reimagining an Icon: Not a Remix, But a Re-contextualization

Unlike many modern remixes, the Tumbao Experience’s take on “Love Me or Leave Me” is not an attempt at imitation or simple reinterpretation. Rather, it is a cultural re-contextualization, bringing Nina Simone’s powerful voice into a new space where Afro-Cuban rhythms and jazz traditions can amplify its message. The project was developed in close collaboration with Dr. Waymon, whose deep understanding of his sister’s work ensures that the integrity and emotional truth of her music is preserved.

“Nina always believed music should travel,  across borders, across cultures, across generations,” says Dr. Waymon. “This project honors that belief while protecting the integrity of her voice.”

The timing of this release is significant, with February being a month globally associated with Black history and cultural reflection. This release serves not only as a tribute to Nina Simone but also as a powerful reminder of the lasting impact of her artistry. Rather than being a nostalgic look back, it reintroduces Simone’s voice as a living, evolving cultural presence that continues to inspire and resonate.

A Unique Fusion of Jazz and Afro-Cuban Rhythms

The arrangement of “Love Me or Leave Me” incorporates elements of jazz and Afro-Cuban music, creating a dynamic dialogue between two rich musical traditions. The track is led by Demetrio Muñiz, a renowned arranger and director known for his work with the legendary Buena Vista Social Club. Under his guidance, the song becomes a fusion of African-American musical heritage and Afro-Cuban rhythmic sensibilities, a genre-spanning conversation that brings new life to Simone’s vocal performance.

For the first time, the Tumbao Experience presents performances of iconic American jazz legends, including Nina Simone, re-imagined through the lens of Latin and Afro-Cuban traditions. The Tumbao Experience ensemble brings together an exceptional group of musicians, each a master in their field. Some of the featured performers include Moises Porro (percussion), Ariel Bringuez (saxophone), and Sergio Fernández (piano), among others. Together, these musicians form an extraordinary group that honors the legacy of jazz and Afro-Cuban music while boldly reshaping it for a new generation.

A Collaborative Effort Fueled by Family

At the core of this project is the deep familial connection between Nina Simone and her brother, Dr. Samuel Waymon. Their collaboration on this track is not only a reflection of their shared musical history but also a poignant personal tribute. Waymon’s musical career spans several decades, during which he has made significant contributions as a composer, pianist, and vocalist. He also served as the spokesperson for the acclaimed Rolling Stone podcast on Nina Simone’s life and music.

Dr. Waymon’s involvement in this project allows the Tumbao Experience to honor Nina Simone’s legacy while preserving the authenticity of her work. His emotional connection to the project is palpable, and his participation serves as a reminder that music, much like family, endures across time.

A Vision for the Future

The Tumbao Experience is more than just a single release; it represents a larger vision of musical fusion and cultural exchange. Frank and Christian Berman, producers of the project, have long supported cross-cultural music and have championed projects that bring together diverse musical traditions. The Berman Brothers' production company has a rich history of working with iconic artists, including Billie Holiday, Aretha Franklin, and Marvin Gaye, through their previous work on the Studio Rio Presents: The Brazil Connection album.

For the Berman Brothers, the Tumbao Experience represents not just a professional endeavor but also a personal one. As siblings themselves, they understand the power of family and the way music can connect people across generations and cultures. This release is a testament to their shared belief in the power of music to bridge divides and create lasting, meaningful connections.

What’s Next for the Tumbao Experience?

As the debut single “Love Me or Leave Me” drops on February 21, 2026, the Tumbao Experience is setting the stage for an album that will continue to explore the intersection of jazz and Afro-Cuban music. This project is not just a tribute to Nina Simone but a celebration of the universal language of music, one that transcends borders, cultures, and time. The Tumbao Experience is a conversation,  one that brings together the old and the new, the familiar and the innovative.

The legacy of Nina Simone is alive and well, and with the Tumbao Experience, her voice will continue to inspire for generations to come. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Simone’s work or new to her music, this re-imagining of her iconic sound is sure to captivate and resonate with listeners worldwide.

To hear the single “Love Me or Leave Me” and learn more about the Tumbao Experience, visit their official website and explore their social media channels:

Visit the Tumbao Experience Website

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Watch the Tumbao Experience on YouTube

Listen to the Music

“Love Me or Leave Me” on Spotify

Through this release, Tumbao Experience has not only re-imagined an iconic piece of music but also brought Nina Simone’s legacy into the present, reintroducing her voice to a new audience with a fresh perspective that honors her contributions to music and culture.