Nat King Cole (1919–1965) was an American singer and jazz pianist who became one of the most iconic and beloved figures in the realm of popular music. Born Nathaniel Adams Coles in Montgomery, Alabama, Cole began his musical career at an early age, displaying exceptional talent as a pianist. His family moved to Chicago when he was still a child, and he began performing in jazz clubs.
Cole’s smooth and velvety voice quickly gained attention, leading him to pursue a career as a vocalist. He formed the Nat King Cole Trio in the late 1930s, featuring Cole on piano and vocals, Oscar Moore on guitar, and Wesley Prince on bass. The trio achieved success in the jazz and pop scene, producing hits like “Straighten Up and Fly Right” and “Route 66.”
In the 1950s, Nat King Cole transitioned to a solo career, becoming one of the first African American artists to host his own television variety show, “The Nat King Cole Show.” His distinctive voice and sophisticated style made him a crossover success, and he recorded numerous chart-topping hits, including “Mona Lisa,” “Unforgettable,” and “L-O-V-E.”
Despite facing racial prejudice and challenges in the segregated entertainment industry of his time, Nat King Cole’s influence and impact were significant. He left a lasting legacy, not only as a pioneering African American artist but also as a masterful interpreter of popular standards. Nat King Cole’s music continues to be cherished and celebrated, and his contributions to the world of music remain influential and timeless.
1. “Unforgettable”
“Unforgettable” is a classic pop and jazz standard that was written by Irving Gordon. The most iconic rendition of the song was performed by Nat King Cole. Cole first recorded the song in 1951, and it became one of his signature songs.
Nat King Cole’s version of “Unforgettable” is known for its smooth and velvety delivery, characteristic of his distinctive vocal style. The lyrics express enduring love and the indelible impact of a romantic relationship, using the imagery of unforgettable memories.
The song includes the famous opening lines:
“Unforgettable, that’s what you are
Unforgettable, though near or far
Like a song of love that clings to me
How the thought of you does things to me”
In 1991, Nat King Cole’s daughter, Natalie Cole, recorded a posthumous duet version of “Unforgettable,” using her father’s original recording. The duet version became a massive hit and earned several Grammy Awards, including Record of the Year and Best Traditional Pop Vocal Performance.
“Unforgettable” continues to be celebrated as one of the great love songs in the American songbook, and both Nat King Cole’s and Natalie Cole’s renditions are cherished by music enthusiasts worldwide.
2. “Mona Lisa”
“Mona Lisa” is a classic song that was famously performed by Nat King Cole. Written by Ray Evans and Jay Livingston, the song was introduced in the 1950 film “Captain Carey, U.S.A.” and went on to become one of Nat King Cole’s signature tunes.
Released in 1950, Cole’s rendition of “Mona Lisa” is characterized by his smooth and mellow vocal style. The lyrics of the song are metaphorically inspired by the famous painting of the Mona Lisa by Leonardo da Vinci. The singer marvels at the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa and expresses the difficulty of capturing the true nature of her emotions.
The song’s emotional depth and lyrical elegance, coupled with Cole’s masterful interpretation, made “Mona Lisa” an instant classic. The orchestral arrangement complements Cole’s vocals, creating a timeless and romantic atmosphere. The song went on to win the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1950.
“Mona Lisa” remains a beloved piece in the realm of American popular music, celebrated for its beautiful melody, evocative lyrics, and the enduring charm of Nat King Cole’s performance. The song has been covered by various artists over the years, but Cole’s version continues to be the definitive and most celebrated rendition.
3. “L-O-V-E”
“L-O-V-E” is a popular song originally written by Bert Kaempfert and Milt Gabler in 1965. However, it’s most famously associated with Nat King Cole, who recorded the song in 1964 for his album of the same name.
Nat King Cole’s rendition of “L-O-V-E” is known for its smooth and sophisticated delivery, characteristic of his velvety voice. The song features a catchy and playful melody and lyrics that spell out the word “love.” The arrangement includes a prominent use of strings and brass instruments, giving it a timeless and elegant quality.
Nat King Cole’s version of “L-O-V-E” has become a classic and is frequently used in movies, commercials, and other forms of popular media. The song continues to be celebrated for its romantic and feel-good qualities.
4. “Nature Boy”
“Nature Boy” is a song written by eden ahbez, and it was first recorded by Nat King Cole in 1947. The song has since been covered by numerous artists in various genres. The most famous version remains Nat King Cole’s rendition.
“Nature Boy” has a unique and ethereal quality to it. The lyrics tell the story of a “strange, enchanted boy” who imparts a message of love, nature, and spiritual wisdom. The song’s haunting melody, combined with Cole’s warm and expressive vocals, creates a timeless and evocative piece.
5. “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)”
“The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)” is a classic Christmas song written by Mel Tormé and Bob Wells. It was first recorded by Nat King Cole in 1946, and Cole’s version remains the most well-known and beloved.
The song is often recognized by its opening lines:
“Chestnuts roasting on an open fire,
Jack Frost nipping at your nose.”
“The Christmas Song” is known for its cozy and nostalgic feel, capturing the warmth and sentiment of the holiday season. Nat King Cole’s smooth and velvety voice, coupled with the lush orchestral arrangement, has made his rendition a staple during the Christmas season.
Over the years, the song has been covered by various artists, but Nat King Cole’s version is particularly iconic and has become synonymous with the joy and traditions of Christmas.
6. “When I Fall in Love”
“When I Fall in Love” by Nat King Cole is a timeless classic that epitomizes the romantic essence of the mid-20th century. Released in 1956, this ballad showcases Cole’s velvety smooth voice, which became synonymous with love and sophistication. The song’s elegant orchestration, featuring lush strings and gentle piano accompaniment, creates a dreamy atmosphere that perfectly complements the lyrics.
The lyrics, penned by Edward Heyman and Victor Young, poetically express the overwhelming emotions that accompany falling in love. Cole’s nuanced delivery brings out the depth of the lyrics, capturing the vulnerability and tenderness inherent in the theme. The song’s slow tempo and melodic richness contribute to its enduring appeal, making it a favorite for weddings, romantic moments, and nostalgic retrospectives.
Nat King Cole’s rendition of “When I Fall in Love” has become the definitive version of the song, appreciated for its understated elegance and emotional resonance. It has transcended generations, continuing to evoke feelings of love and nostalgia. With its timeless charm, the song remains a testament to Nat King Cole’s artistry and the enduring power of a beautifully crafted love ballad.
7. “Stardust”
“Stardust” is a timeless and romantic jazz standard composed by Hoagy Carmichael with lyrics written by Mitchell Parish. First recorded in 1927, “Stardust” has since become one of the most recorded songs in the 20th century, with various artists offering their interpretations.
Nat King Cole’s rendition of “Stardust” is particularly notable. Released in 1957 as part of the album “Love Is the Thing,” Cole’s version showcases his velvety voice and impeccable phrasing. The song’s lyrics paint a dreamy picture of love and nostalgia, using celestial imagery to convey a sense of timelessness and beauty.
Carmichael’s haunting melody and Parish’s evocative lyrics combine to create a musical masterpiece that has resonated across decades. “Stardust” has been covered by countless artists in various genres, solidifying its status as a classic. The song’s enduring appeal lies in its ability to transport listeners to a realm of romanticism and wistful contemplation.
Nat King Cole’s interpretation, in particular, captures the essence of the song’s sentiment, making it one of the definitive versions. “Stardust” remains a symbol of the enduring power of great songwriting and the ability of music to evoke deep and timeless emotions.
8. “Route 66”
“Route 66,” originally composed by Bobby Troup and famously performed by Nat King Cole, is an iconic American jazz and rhythm and blues song that pays homage to the historic U.S. Route 66. Released in 1946, the song became a symbol of the open road and the adventure associated with the cross-country journey along this legendary highway.
The lyrics of “Route 66” describe the various stops and attractions along the route, from Chicago to Los Angeles, capturing the essence of the American road trip. Nat King Cole’s smooth and charismatic vocal delivery adds a jazzy and cool vibe to the song, making it an enduring classic.
The upbeat tempo and swinging rhythm, accompanied by vibrant instrumentation, mirror the excitement and energy of a road trip. “Route 66” has been covered by numerous artists over the years, solidifying its status as a standard in the American songbook. The song not only celebrates the physical journey along Route 66 but also serves as a cultural touchstone, embodying the spirit of exploration and the allure of the open highway in American popular music.
9. “Smile”
“Smile” is a poignant and uplifting song that has been interpreted and recorded by various artists, but it is most famously associated with Nat King Cole. Written by Charlie Chaplin, Geoffrey Parsons, and John Turner, the song was initially composed as an instrumental piece for Chaplin’s 1936 film “Modern Times.” Later, lyrics were added, and it became the song we know today.
Nat King Cole’s rendition of “Smile” is particularly memorable. Released in 1954, Cole’s version is characterized by his smooth, velvety voice and a heartfelt delivery that conveys the emotional depth of the lyrics. The song encourages listeners to “smile, though your heart is aching” and reflects on finding solace and hope even in challenging times.
“Smile” has since become a timeless classic, covered by numerous artists across genres. The simplicity of its melody, coupled with its universal message of resilience and optimism, has contributed to the song’s enduring popularity. Whether used in films, television, or as a source of comfort during difficult moments, “Smile” remains a touching and reassuring piece that transcends generations.
10. “Quizás, Quizás, Quizás” (Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps)
“Quizás, Quizás, Quizás” is a classic Latin American song that was written by Cuban songwriter Osvaldo Farrés in 1947. The English version, titled “Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps,” was later adapted with lyrics by Joe Davis. The song has been widely performed and recorded in both English and Spanish, becoming a standard in the Latin music repertoire.
The lyrics of the song express uncertainty and indecision in a romantic context, with the singer asking questions about the possibility of love. The repeated use of “Quizás” in Spanish or “Perhaps” in English adds a sense of ambiguity and longing to the song.
One of the most famous versions of “Quizás, Quizás, Quizás” in Spanish was recorded by Nat King Cole. In English, it has been covered by various artists, including Doris Day, Cake, and most notably by Pussycat Dolls in a more contemporary adaptation.
The song’s enduring popularity lies in its catchy melody, rhythmic charm, and the emotional depth conveyed through its lyrics, making it a timeless piece in both Latin and popular music.
Edward Tomlin is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
