Nat King Cole (1919-1965) was an American jazz pianist and vocalist who became one of the most iconic and beloved figures in popular music. Known for his smooth and velvety voice, Cole achieved great success in multiple genres, including jazz, pop, and rhythm and blues.
Cole’s career spanned several decades, beginning in the late 1930s. He initially gained fame as a jazz pianist and bandleader before transitioning to become a solo vocalist. His distinctive voice and impeccable phrasing led to numerous hit songs, including classics like “Unforgettable,” “Mona Lisa,” and “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire).”
Beyond his musical achievements, Nat King Cole broke racial barriers in the entertainment industry, becoming the first African-American to host a nationwide television variety show in 1956. His influence on popular music is profound, and his recordings continue to be cherished by listeners worldwide for their timeless quality and emotional resonance.
1. Straighten Up and Fly Right
“Straighten Up and Fly Right” is a classic song performed by Nat King Cole, released in 1943. It’s one of his early hits and exemplifies his skillful blend of jazz and pop influences.
The song’s lyrics tell a story with a moral lesson, using folk-like imagery to convey a message of perseverance and determination. The catchy refrain “Cool down, papa, don’t you blow your top” became a signature line for Nat King Cole and contributed to the song’s popularity.
“Straighten Up and Fly Right” was co-written by Nat King Cole and his friend, Irving Mills. Its upbeat tempo, playful lyrics, and Cole’s smooth vocals made it a hit during the swing era. The song’s enduring appeal has led to numerous cover versions by various artists over the years, solidifying its status as a classic in American popular music.
2. When I Fall in Love
“When I Fall in Love” is a timeless ballad performed by Nat King Cole, released in 1956 on his album “Love Is the Thing.” It’s one of Cole’s most iconic recordings, known for its lush orchestration, heartfelt lyrics, and his velvety smooth vocals.
The song, composed by Victor Young with lyrics by Edward Heyman, explores the emotions and vulnerability of falling in love. Nat King Cole’s rendition is characterized by its tender and sincere delivery, capturing the romantic essence of the lyrics.
“When I Fall in Love” became a major hit for Nat King Cole, reaching high positions on the charts and becoming a beloved classic. Its enduring popularity has led to numerous cover versions by artists across various genres, solidifying its status as a standard in romantic balladry.
Nat King Cole’s interpretation of “When I Fall in Love” remains a testament to his vocal prowess and ability to convey deep emotion through music, making it a timeless treasure in the Great American Songbook.
3. Stardust
“Stardust” is a classic song that has been performed by numerous artists, including Nat King Cole. It was composed in 1927 by Hoagy Carmichael with lyrics added later by Mitchell Parish. The song has become a jazz and pop standard, beloved for its romantic and nostalgic lyrics.
Nat King Cole’s rendition of “Stardust” is particularly renowned for its smooth and mellow interpretation, highlighting his velvety voice and impeccable phrasing. His version, recorded in 1957, captures the essence of the song’s longing and wistful mood, evoking a sense of timeless romance.
Lyrically, “Stardust” paints a poetic picture of love and memories. It describes how a melody (symbolized by stardust) brings back cherished moments and emotions from the past. The lyrics express yearning and nostalgia, reflecting on the beauty of love and its enduring impact.
Musically, “Stardust” features a lush orchestration that complements Nat King Cole’s vocals. The arrangement typically includes sweeping strings and gentle piano, creating a dreamy and evocative atmosphere. Cole’s smooth delivery and emotional depth elevate the song, making it a timeless classic in the American songbook.
Overall, Nat King Cole’s rendition of “Stardust” remains a definitive interpretation of the song, celebrated for its elegance, emotive power, and enduring appeal. It continues to captivate listeners with its heartfelt lyrics and Cole’s unparalleled vocal talent, solidifying its place as one of the most beloved interpretations of this iconic song.
4. Unforgettable
“Unforgettable” is a classic song performed by Nat King Cole, released in 1951. It’s one of his most famous recordings, known for its beautiful melody and poignant lyrics about enduring love.
The song was written by Irving Gordon and became a signature tune for Nat King Cole. His smooth and velvety voice, accompanied by lush orchestration, created a timeless ballad that resonated with audiences then and continues to do so today.
“Unforgettable” was originally released as a single and later included on the album of the same name. It became a major hit, reaching high positions on the charts and earning critical acclaim. In 1991, Natalie Cole, Nat King Cole’s daughter, released a posthumous duet version of “Unforgettable” with her father’s original recording, which became a chart-topping success.
The enduring popularity of “Unforgettable” has cemented its place as a classic in popular music history, showcasing Nat King Cole’s exceptional talent as a vocalist and his ability to evoke deep emotions through his music.
5. Mona Lisa
“Mona Lisa” is a classic song famously performed by Nat King Cole. It was written by Ray Evans and Jay Livingston for the 1950 film “Captain Carey, U.S.A.,” where it won the Academy Award for Best Original Song.
The song is characterized by its romantic lyrics that liken the subject, Mona Lisa, to a mysterious and enigmatic figure. Nat King Cole’s rendition, released in 1950, became one of his signature songs. His smooth and velvety voice, combined with the song’s gentle orchestration, created a timeless and evocative atmosphere.
Lyrically, “Mona Lisa” paints a vivid portrait of the famed painting by Leonardo da Vinci, describing Mona Lisa’s smile and capturing the fascination and allure she embodies. The lyrics reflect on the longing and admiration for her beauty and the desire to understand the secrets behind her enigmatic expression.
Musically, Nat King Cole’s interpretation of “Mona Lisa” features a delicate orchestration, typically with strings and piano, that enhances the song’s romantic and nostalgic feel. Cole’s heartfelt delivery and impeccable phrasing convey the song’s emotional depth and poetic imagery, making it a classic in the Great American Songbook.
Overall, “Mona Lisa” remains a timeless masterpiece in popular music, celebrated for its lyrical beauty, Nat King Cole’s exceptional vocal performance, and its enduring appeal. It continues to captivate audiences with its elegant melody and evocative storytelling, solidifying its status as one of the most beloved songs of all time.
6. Nature Boy
“Nature Boy” is a song written by eden ahbez in 1947. It has been performed by numerous artists over the years, but one of the most famous renditions is by Nat King Cole. Released in 1948, Nat King Cole’s version became a major hit and remains one of his most iconic songs.
Lyrically, “Nature Boy” tells the story of a “strange enchanted boy” who shares wisdom about the importance of love and nature. The lyrics reflect themes of spirituality, peace, and the search for meaning in life. The song’s central message, encapsulated in the line “The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return,” emphasizes the power of love as a transformative force.
Musically, Nat King Cole’s rendition of “Nature Boy” features a gentle and haunting melody, accompanied by lush orchestration that includes strings and piano. Cole’s smooth and resonant voice lends a sense of intimacy and depth to the song, enhancing its emotional impact and poetic beauty.
“Nature Boy” became a critical and commercial success for Nat King Cole, reaching the top of the charts in both the United States and the United Kingdom. Its enduring popularity has made it a classic in the jazz and pop genres, with its timeless message resonating with audiences across generations.
Overall, “Nature Boy” remains a masterpiece in popular music, celebrated for its lyrical depth, haunting melody, and Nat King Cole’s soulful interpretation. It continues to captivate listeners with its timeless themes and remains a testament to the enduring power of music to inspire and uplift.
7. Too Young
“Too Young” is a classic song performed by Nat King Cole, released in 1951. It’s a romantic ballad that became one of his signature songs and a major hit during the early 1950s.
The song, composed by Sidney Lippman with lyrics by Sylvia Dee, explores the theme of young love and the feelings of being too young to fully understand or appreciate it. Nat King Cole’s smooth and emotive vocal delivery, backed by lush orchestration, captured the innocence and sweetness of the lyrics.
“Too Young” topped the charts in the United States and became one of Nat King Cole’s most successful recordings. Its popularity was further solidified by Cole’s charismatic performance style and the song’s relatable lyrics, which resonated with listeners of all ages.
“Too Young” remains a timeless classic in Nat King Cole’s repertoire, showcasing his ability to blend jazz, pop, and romantic balladry into songs that continue to enchant audiences decades after their initial release.
8. Smile
“Smile” is a song famously performed by Nat King Cole, among many other artists. Originally composed by Charlie Chaplin as an instrumental piece for his 1936 film “Modern Times,” the song gained lyrics in 1954 by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons. Nat King Cole’s rendition, released in 1954, is perhaps the most renowned interpretation.
Nat King Cole’s version of “Smile” is characterized by its gentle and comforting melody, accompanied by his soothing vocals. The lyrics convey a message of hope and resilience, encouraging listeners to keep smiling even in the face of adversity.
“Smile” became one of Nat King Cole’s signature songs and remains a beloved classic in the Great American Songbook. Its timeless appeal has led to numerous covers by artists across various genres, solidifying its status as an enduring anthem of positivity and perseverance.
9. Pretend
“Pretend” is a classic song famously performed by Nat King Cole. It was written by Lew Douglas, Cliff Parman, and Frank Levere, and Nat King Cole’s rendition, released in 1953, became one of his notable hits.
Lyrically, “Pretend” explores themes of love and longing, where the singer imagines a scenario where everything is perfect and love is everlasting. The lyrics convey a sense of yearning and desire to escape reality, with lines like “Pretend you’re happy when you’re blue” reflecting the song’s poignant sentiment.
Musically, Nat King Cole’s interpretation of “Pretend” features a lush orchestration typical of the era, with sweeping strings and gentle piano accompaniment. Cole’s smooth and velvety voice brings emotional depth to the song, capturing the romantic essence and wistful longing expressed in the lyrics.
“Pretend” became a popular hit for Nat King Cole, reaching the charts and becoming a beloved standard in the American songbook. Its timeless appeal lies in its heartfelt lyrics, memorable melody, and Cole’s masterful vocal delivery, making it a classic example of his ability to evoke emotions through music.
Overall, “Pretend” remains a cherished song in Nat King Cole’s repertoire, celebrated for its romantic themes, beautiful arrangement, and enduring popularity among fans of classic pop and jazz music.
10. L-O-V-E
“L-O-V-E” is a classic song performed by Nat King Cole, released in 1965 on his album of the same name. It’s one of his most recognizable recordings, known for its upbeat tempo, catchy melody, and joyful lyrics celebrating love.
The song “L-O-V-E” was composed by Bert Kaempfert with lyrics by Milt Gabler. Nat King Cole’s rendition features his smooth and charismatic vocals, backed by a lively arrangement that includes brass instruments and a swinging rhythm section. The playful spelling out of “L-O-V-E” in the chorus adds to the song’s charm and appeal.
“L-O-V-E” became a major hit for Nat King Cole, reaching high positions on the charts and becoming a staple in his live performances. Its cheerful and infectious melody has made it a favorite for weddings, romantic occasions, and celebrations of love.
Over the years, “L-O-V-E” has been covered by numerous artists and remains a timeless classic that continues to captivate audiences with its message of love and its catchy, feel-good vibe.