Nat King Cole was an American jazz pianist and vocalist, born Nathaniel Adams Coles on March 17, 1919. He is renowned for his smooth, velvety voice and his contributions to jazz and pop music. Cole began his career as a jazz pianist, forming the Nat King Cole Trio in the 1940s, which gained significant popularity for its sophisticated blend of jazz and pop.
His vocal career took off in the 1950s with hits like “Unforgettable,” “Mona Lisa,” and “The Christmas Song,” which became timeless classics. Cole’s style combined elements of jazz, blues, and pop, earning him a place as one of the most influential vocalists of the 20th century. His legacy continues through his enduring recordings and significant impact on music.
1. Straighten Up and Fly Right
“Straighten Up and Fly Right” is a classic song by Nat King Cole and his Trio, first recorded in 1943. Written by Cole and Irving Mills, the song is a jazz and swing standard with a catchy, upbeat melody and playful lyrics. The track was inspired by a humorous story Cole’s father told him about a bird and a monkey, which Cole used as a metaphor for straightening out one’s life and making the right choices. The song’s smooth rhythm, Cole’s distinctive vocal style, and its memorable chorus helped make it a hit and a defining piece of Cole’s early career.
2. When I Fall in Love
“When I Fall in Love” is a timeless ballad made famous by Nat King Cole, released in 1957. The song was written by Edward Heyman and Victor Young, and it became one of Cole’s signature hits. Known for its lush orchestration and Cole’s warm, emotive delivery, the track explores the theme of love with a sense of anticipation and hope. The song’s rich melody and heartfelt lyrics have made it a classic, and it has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Nat King Cole’s rendition remains one of the most beloved and enduring versions of this romantic standard.
3. Stardust
“Stardust” is a classic jazz standard composed by Hoagy Carmichael with lyrics by Mitchell Parish. Originally written in 1927, the song has become one of the most recorded and enduring pieces in American music history. Nat King Cole’s rendition of “Stardust,” recorded in 1957, is particularly celebrated for its smooth, emotive vocals and sophisticated arrangement. Cole’s version is renowned for its lush orchestration and the way he conveys the song’s nostalgic and reflective mood. “Stardust” remains a beloved standard, admired for its timeless melody and the emotional depth of its performances.
4. Unforgettable
“Unforgettable” is a timeless classic performed by Nat King Cole, originally recorded in 1951. Written by Irving Gordon, the song is renowned for its smooth, romantic lyrics and Cole’s warm, velvety vocals.
The track features a lush orchestral arrangement that perfectly complements Cole’s sophisticated and emotive delivery. The lyrics celebrate a deep, enduring love, capturing a sense of nostalgia and admiration. “Unforgettable” has been praised for its timeless appeal and has become one of Nat King Cole’s signature songs.
The song was later re-recorded by Cole in 1961 for the album *Unforgettable*, and it has since become an enduring standard, often associated with the golden age of jazz and popular music. It remains a beloved piece in Cole’s discography and continues to be celebrated for its elegance and emotional resonance.
5. Mona Lisa
“Mona Lisa” is a classic song performed by Nat King Cole, released in 1950. Written by Jay Livingston and Ray Evans, the song was featured in the film *Captain Carey, U.S.A.* and became one of Cole’s most iconic hits. The track is known for its smooth, mellow melody and Cole’s velvety, emotive vocals. The lyrics draw a comparison between the enigmatic smile of the Mona Lisa and the allure of a captivating woman. “Mona Lisa” was a major commercial success, earning Cole an Academy Award for Best Original Song and cementing its place as a timeless standard in American music.
6. Nature Boy
“Nature Boy” is a classic song originally written by eden ahbez and first recorded by Nat King Cole in 1948. The song’s mystical and introspective lyrics, combined with Cole’s smooth and emotive vocal delivery, helped it become a hit.
The lyrics tell the story of a “Nature Boy” who shares a profound, philosophical message about love and life. The song features a haunting melody and a distinctive orchestral arrangement, which adds to its ethereal and timeless quality.
“Nature Boy” became one of Nat King Cole’s signature hits and is celebrated for its poetic lyrics and memorable melody. It has been covered by numerous artists over the years, further cementing its place as a classic in American music.
7. Too Young
“Too Young” is a poignant ballad performed by Nat King Cole, released in 1951. Written by Sidney Lippman and Sylvia Dee, the song explores themes of youthful love and the pain of having to part ways too soon.
Nat King Cole’s tender and expressive vocals bring depth to the song, which features a simple, yet evocative melody. The orchestral arrangement complements Cole’s delivery, enhancing the emotional impact of the lyrics.
“Too Young” became one of Cole’s early hits, reaching a wide audience and contributing to his growing popularity. The song remains a cherished part of Cole’s legacy, admired for its heartfelt sentiment and Cole’s masterful performance.
8. Smile
“Smile” is a poignant song with music by Charles Chaplin, originally composed for his 1936 film *Modern Times*. The lyrics, written later by John Turner and Geoffrey Parsons, were first published in 1954. The song’s message is about finding joy and resilience despite life’s difficulties. Nat King Cole’s version, recorded in 1954, is celebrated for its warm, tender delivery and emotive interpretation. His rendition has become one of the most enduring and heartfelt versions of the song, emphasizing its theme of hope and positivity. “Smile” remains a beloved classic, praised for its timeless melody and uplifting message.
9. Pretend
“Pretend” is a classic song performed by Nat King Cole, released in 1953. Written by Jack Lawrence, the song is a tender ballad that explores themes of longing and the pain of unfulfilled love.
The lyrics convey a sense of wistful nostalgia and emotional depth, with Cole’s warm, velvety voice delivering the song’s poignant message. The arrangement features a lush orchestral backdrop that enhances the song’s melancholic tone.
“Pretend” became a popular hit for Cole, showcasing his ability to convey deep emotion through his smooth vocal style. The song remains a beloved part of Cole’s repertoire, admired for its beautiful melody and heartfelt lyrics.
10. L-O-V-E
“L-O-V-E” is a charming and upbeat song performed by Nat King Cole, released in 1965. Written by Bert Kaempfert, Milt Gabler, and it was a significant hit in Cole’s later career. The song is celebrated for its catchy melody and Cole’s smooth, engaging vocals. The lyrics spell out the word “love” in a playful and affectionate way, highlighting the different aspects and expressions of love. The song’s joyful, feel-good nature and Cole’s charismatic delivery make it a memorable and enduring classic, often associated with romantic and sentimental occasions.
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.
