Nat King Cole was a celebrated American jazz and pop singer, pianist, and actor born on March 17, 1919, in Montgomery, Alabama. Known for his smooth, velvety voice and sophisticated style, Cole’s career spanned several decades and left a lasting impact on popular music. He first gained fame as the leader of the Nat King Cole Trio, known for their jazz and swing performances. His transition to solo work brought hits like “Unforgettable,” “Mona Lisa,” and “The Christmas Song” (also known as “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire”). Cole’s warm vocal delivery and elegant charm made him a beloved figure in both music and entertainment.
1. Straighten Up and Fly Right
“Straighten Up and Fly Right” is a classic song popularized by Nat King Cole and his Trio. Released in 1943, the song was a significant hit, showcasing Cole’s smooth, engaging style. Written by Cole and Irving Mills, the song features a catchy melody and clever lyrics that combine humor with a message about staying on the right path and avoiding trouble. Its swing rhythm and Cole’s distinctive vocals helped make it a memorable and enduring piece in the jazz and pop genres. “Straighten Up and Fly Right” remains one of Nat King Cole’s signature songs, celebrated for its charm and timeless appeal.
2. When I Fall in Love
“When I Fall in Love” is a timeless ballad popularized by Nat King Cole. Released in 1956, the song features Cole’s signature smooth and velvety vocals, accompanied by lush orchestration. The lyrics express a deep and hopeful yearning for a perfect romantic relationship, with themes of enduring love and commitment. The track became one of Cole’s most beloved hits and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its romantic sentiment and Cole’s heartfelt delivery have solidified “When I Fall in Love” as a classic, enduring staple in the jazz and pop music repertoires.
3. Stardust
“Stardust” by Nat King Cole is a classic jazz ballad from his 1957 album of the same name. The song, originally composed by Hoagy Carmichael with lyrics by Mitchell Parish, is renowned for its smooth, melancholic melody and Cole’s velvety vocal delivery.
The lyrics of “Stardust” evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, reflecting on past romance and cherished memories. Nat King Cole’s interpretation is celebrated for its warmth and emotional depth, with his rich, soothing voice perfectly complementing the song’s introspective and wistful nature.
“Stardust” remains a timeless standard in jazz and pop music, admired for its lyrical beauty and Cole’s masterful performance. It continues to be a defining piece of Cole’s legacy and a cherished classic in American music.
4. Unforgettable
“Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole is a timeless standard first recorded in 1951. Written by Irving Gordon, the song features a lush orchestral arrangement and Cole’s smooth, warm vocals.
The lyrics express a deep sense of admiration and reverence for someone who is unforgettable and cherished. Cole’s performance is both tender and evocative, capturing the essence of romantic longing and appreciation.
“Unforgettable” became one of Nat King Cole’s most iconic songs, known for its enduring appeal and emotional resonance. It has been covered by many artists and remains a classic example of Cole’s exceptional ability to convey heartfelt emotion through music.
5. Mona Lisa
“Mona Lisa” is a classic song famously performed by Nat King Cole, released in 1950. Written by Ray Evans and Jay Livingston, the song was a major hit and became one of Cole’s signature pieces. The track is named after the iconic painting by Leonardo da Vinci, and its lyrics describe a mysterious and enchanting woman, drawing a parallel to the enigmatic nature of the Mona Lisa. The song features Cole’s smooth, velvety voice and a sophisticated arrangement, capturing the romantic and wistful essence of the lyrics. “Mona Lisa” remains a timeless standard, celebrated for its elegant melody and Cole’s captivating performance.
6. Nature Boy
“Nature Boy” is a classic song first recorded by Nat King Cole in 1948. Written by Eden Ahbez, the song features a unique blend of jazz and pop with a dreamy, mystical quality.
The lyrics tell the story of a “nature boy” who travels the world in search of life’s deeper meaning and wisdom, ultimately discovering that “the greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.”
Cole’s performance of “Nature Boy” is characterized by his smooth, warm vocals and a hauntingly beautiful melody. The song’s blend of introspective lyrics and Cole’s emotive delivery has made it a timeless classic, celebrated for its poetic and philosophical content.
7. Too Young
“Too Young” is a romantic ballad performed by Nat King Cole, released in 1951. Written by Sidney Lippman and Sylvia Dee, the song features Cole’s smooth, tender vocals and a lush orchestral arrangement.
The lyrics of “Too Young” reflect on the theme of youthful love and the bittersweet realization that one is too young to fully understand or appreciate its depth. Cole’s performance captures the song’s sense of wistfulness and gentle nostalgia.
“Too Young” became a major hit and is often remembered for its charming melody and Cole’s emotive delivery, solidifying its place as a classic in his repertoire and a beloved standard in the world of romantic ballads.
8. Smile
“Smile” is a classic song with music by Charles Chaplin, originally composed for the 1936 film *Modern Times*. The lyrics, added later by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons, give the song a poignant and uplifting message about finding strength and hope in difficult times.
Nat King Cole’s version, released in 1954, is one of the most well-known renditions of the song. His smooth, soothing vocal delivery adds a layer of warmth and tenderness to the song’s already deeply emotional and hopeful lyrics.
The song’s message encourages resilience and positivity, embodying the idea that even in the face of adversity, one can find reasons to smile and move forward. “Smile” has become a timeless classic, covered by many artists over the years, and remains a beloved part of Nat King Cole’s legacy.
9. Pretend
“Pretend” is a song by Nat King Cole, released in 1960. Written by Jack Lawrence, the song showcases Cole’s smooth and emotive vocal style. The lyrics reflect a poignant longing for a lost love, with the narrator asking to “pretend” that their love is still alive and the relationship is intact. The track is known for its heartfelt delivery and melancholic melody, highlighting Cole’s ability to convey deep emotion through his music. “Pretend” remains a cherished part of Nat King Cole’s repertoire, appreciated for its lyrical depth and Cole’s masterful performance.
10. L-O-V-E
“L-O-V-E” is a classic song performed by Nat King Cole, released in 1965. Written by Bert Kaempfert, Milt Gabler, and Bob Russell, the song features a playful and upbeat melody with a jazzy arrangement.
The lyrics spell out the word “love” and describe the different facets and feelings associated with it. Nat King Cole’s warm, engaging vocals bring a sense of charm and joy to the song, making it a delightful and memorable piece.
“L-O-V-E” is celebrated for its catchy tune and the way it captures the essence of romantic affection. It remains one of Nat King Cole’s most iconic songs and a timeless favorite in the world of romantic 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.
