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Hundreds of mourners attended NINA SIMONE's funeral today (April 25) in the south of France.

The legendary jazz and blues performer died at her home in France last Monday at the age of 70. She was cremated at a private service in Marseille.

The service in the small town Carry-le-Rouet began with a recording of Jacques Brel's 'Ne Me Quitte Pas' (Don't Leave Me)', which Simone regularly performed on stage.

Elton John sent a floral tribute to the late singer and pianist, who was famous for songs 'My Baby Just Cares For Me' and 'I Loves You Porgy'.

Memorial services for the singer, who protested against segregation in America in the 1950s and 1960s, are to be held in New York and Simone's home town of Tryon, North Carolina.

At her request her ashes will be scattered across several African countries.

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