Zoe Saldana Did Real Singing For Nina Simone Movie?

Zoe Saldana as Nina Simone is getting more controversial. After learning the actress was going to play Simone in her upcoming biopic, the media, fans, musicians and others have all lashed out at that fact, claiming that she looks nothing like the deceased jazz singer and her skin isn’t dark enough. Now, Saldana co-star David Oyelowo, has recently indicated that the actress did all her own vocals for the upcoming film. Could Saldana even sing?

“She did!” Oyelowo confirmed to a source. “Whether that will be the case of the movie, I don’t know, but she was there, she learned all those songs, she got Nina down. She was incredible…I think she is going to really surprise people with her performance in that film.”

Oyelowo also claimed that despite all the complaints the actress did a great job on the film.

“You’re never going to please everyone. I know what Zoe did in that movie, I know the kind of film we’ve made and the spirit that went into it and just hope that the people who appreciate the hard work we’ve put in will come and see the movie.”

In the Nina Simone biopic, Saldana plays the leading role based on the jazz singer’s 1992 autobiography “I Put A Spell On You”, which told the story of Simone’s relationship with her assistant, Clifton Henderson (David Oyelowo).

A mere plea from a co-star won’t suffice.  Though, if Saldana could pull off the singing she may put all the naysayers crowls to rest, proving that she was good for the part despite what some may think.

More details on this film coming soon…

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