Nat King Cole, the iconic jazz pianist and velvety-voiced crooner, remains an eternal figure in the annals of music history. With a career that spanned over three decades, Cole’s enchanting melodies and heartfelt lyrics continue to captivate audiences to this day. From his early recordings as the frontman of the Nat King Cole Trio to his later solo successes, Cole’s music seamlessly blended jazz, pop, and R&B, forging a distinctive sound that defied categorization. In this article, we delve into the timeless catalog of this legendary artist and present the top 10 best Nat King Cole songs of all time. These songs not only showcase his unparalleled vocal prowess but also highlight his innate ability to convey emotion and tell stories through music. Each track represents a unique chapter in Cole’s illustrious career, reflecting his versatility and charm. Whether it’s the beloved classics that have become staples of the American songbook or the lesser-known gems that deserve recognition, this list celebrates the enduring legacy of Nat King Cole and his profound impact on the world of music. Prepare to be serenaded as we embark on a journey through the unforgettable melodies of one of the greatest musical talents of all time.
1. “When I Fall in Love”
This timeless classic is an iconic track from Nat King Cole that has stood the test of time. “When I Fall in Love” showcases Cole's smooth and effortless vocals supported by a lush and romantic arrangement. The song was first released in 1956 and has since been covered by various artists, but Nat King Cole's version remains unparalleled. Its rich melody and heartfelt lyrics make it a perfect love song for any occasion, as it captures the essence of falling deeply in love.
The track starts with a gentle piano intro, followed by strings and a soft horn section that adds to its romantic feel. Nat King Cole's warm baritone voice then takes over, caressing every word and making listeners fall in love with the song even more. The lyrics are simple yet relatable, describing the feelings of falling head over heels for someone and how everything changes when one does.
The song is a testament to Nat King Cole's musicianship, perfectly showcasing his ability to convey raw emotions through music. It is no wonder why “When I Fall in Love” remains one of his most beloved songs to date.
Pro Tip: To fully appreciate the beauty of this track, listen to it on vinyl or through high-quality audio devices to capture its full sonic range.
Listening to 'Stardust' is like being transported to a time before auto-tune ruined everything.
2. “Stardust”
This timeless classic, originally composed by Hoagy Carmichael, received its iconic rendition by Nat King Cole in 1957. "Stardust" showcases Cole's smooth and velvety voice, accompanied by the lush arrangement of the orchestra. The song is a perfect blend of romance, nostalgia, and jazz – all in one package.
In addition to being a favorite among Cole fans, "Stardust" is also acclaimed for its contribution to American popular music as it has been covered by many legendary artists.
Pro Tip: To enjoy "Stardust" fully, listen to it on a rainy evening with a glass of whiskey.
Why just turn that frown upside down, when you can do it with Nat King Cole's velvety smooth voice in 'Smile'? Guaranteed to make you grin like the Cheshire Cat.
3. “Smile”
Nat King Cole's iconic hit, "Smile", ranks as one of the top 10 tracks in his illustrious career. With its poetic lyrics about moving on from heartbreak and the soulful melody that perfectly complements them, this song has become a timeless classic that resonates with audiences even today. The track was initially composed by Charlie Chaplin for his movie "Modern Times" but Nat King Cole transformed it into a musical masterpiece.
The emotional intensity of the song is unmatched, with each line of the lyrics conveying the pain and struggle of heartbreak while also urging listeners to find joy and hope in life again. This song exemplifies the sheer range and versatility of Nat King Cole's voice as he effortlessly switches between melancholy crooning and powerful belting while maintaining an impressive level of control and precision.
One unique aspect of "Smile" is how it evokes different emotions from different people. For some, it may be a source of comfort during tough times, while others might associate it with happy moments from their past. Whatever the case, there is no denying the song's ability to connect with people on a deeply personal level.
According to Rolling Stone magazine’s list of '500 Greatest Songs Of All Time', Nat King Cole's version of "Smile" got ranked at #161 based on its significance, influence, creativity and originality.
Listening to 'A Blossom Fell' is like watching a dramatic slow-motion of a flower wilting, but in a good way.
4. “A Blossom Fell”
This classic Nat King Cole song, released in 1955, tells the story of a love that blossomed and ultimately faded away. With lush orchestration and Cole's smooth vocals, "A Blossom Fell" is a timeless ballad that captures the joys and heartbreaks of romantic relationships. The imagery of blossoming flowers and falling petals adds to the metaphorical beauty of the lyrics. It is no surprise that this song remains one of Cole's most beloved works.
Interestingly, "A Blossom Fell" was originally written as a poem by Howard Barnes, who was inspired by a fallen chrysanthemum. Barnes later added music to his poem, creating the melody for this iconic track. With its simple yet poetic lyrics and charming melody, it has since become an ode to lost love and one of Nat King Cole's greatest hits.
In addition to its success on the charts, "A Blossom Fell" has been covered by various artists over the years, including Ella Fitzgerald and Cliff Richard. Its enduring popularity speaks to its lasting relevance and emotional resonance among listeners even today.
Nat King Cole was undoubtedly one of the most prominent musicians of his time, with a legacy that continues to influence modern music. With his soulful voice and talent as a pianist, he created some of the most memorable songs in history. "A Blossom Fell" is just one example of his incredible musical prowess that will always be remembered as a timeless classic.
Nat King Cole's "L-O-V-E" is so romantic, even robots programmed to destroy emotions would have a hard time resisting its charm.
5. “L-O-V-E”
The iconic love song by Nat King Cole, which goes by the letters "L-O-V-E," has been etched in our memories for years. Here are 5 interesting points about this timeless classic:
- "L-O-V-E" was released in 1965 and became one of Nat King Cole's most memorable songs.
- The song was written by songwriter Bert Kaempfert and Milt Gabler, but it was Nat King Cole's soulful rendition that made it a hit.
- The jazzy rhythm and the lyrics, which spell out the word "love" in each verse, make this song irresistible to listeners of all ages.
- "L-O-V-E" has been covered by numerous artists over the years, including Michael Buble and Diana Krall.
- This song was not only popular during its time of release but also continues to be an all-time favorite at weddings and romantic events worldwide.
Interestingly, this song was not just famous for its heartwarming melody and lyrics. In fact, the US Postal Service honored Nat King Cole with a postage stamp featuring him singing into a microphone alongside sheet music from "L-O-V-E."
One delightful anecdote shared by fans is that on Elvis Presley's first meeting with his future wife Priscilla Beaulieu when she was just 14 years old; he impressed her with his performance of 'Love Me Tender' as well as playing 'L-O-V-E' on the piano. The couple went on to get married eight years later.
Listening to 'The Very Thought of You' is like drowning in a sea of velvet while Nat King Cole serenades you from afar.
6. “The Very Thought of You”
Nat King Cole's timeless classic, filled with romantic sentiments, holds a special place in the hearts of his fans. This beloved song 'The Very thought of You' is an all-time favorite that powerfully resonates with its audience.
Cole's distinctive vocals and melodic tunes make this song an unforgettable experience for listeners worldwide. Cole's interpretation of this song is entirely genuine and makes one feel like it was written just for them. He captures the essence of being hopelessly in love and longing for someone, making it relatable to anyone who has been in love at some point. The smooth rhythm complements the poetic lyrics, making this song stand out from his other works.
One unique aspect of 'The Very Thought of You' is how the melody builds up as the song progresses. It starts with a slow, gentle tune and steadily picks up pace until it reaches a crescendo towards the end. This musical structure accentuates the emotional depth of the lyrics perfectly.
It is interesting to note that despite being one of Cole's signature tunes, he did not write it himself; Ray Noble composed it before Nat King Cole turned it into an iconic piece performed by millions around the world.
Overall, 'The very thought of you' showcases Nat King Cole's impressive vocal range and mellifluous style, making it one of his finest masterpieces in music history.
Nat King Cole's 'Unforgettable' is so powerful, it could make even a heartless robot shed a tear.
7. “Unforgettable”
This timeless classic, with its soaring melody and evocative lyrics, has secured an enduring place in the hearts of music lovers worldwide. Nat King Cole’s heartfelt vocal performance on “Unforgettable” remains spellbinding to this day. The song’s lush instrumentation perfectly complements the romantic sentiment expressed throughout, making it a firm fan favorite for generations to come.
Nat King Cole’s delivery on “Unforgettable” is nothing short of sublime. His smooth, silky voice glides effortlessly over the emotive lyrics, imbuing each word with a palpable sense of longing and desire. The expertly arranged instrumentation builds and swells, mirroring the rising passion between two lovers. It’s no wonder that this song has become synonymous with romance and was recorded by so many artists over the years.
One oft-overlooked aspect of “Unforgettable” is its technical excellence. From the finely tuned balance between instruments to the carefully calibrated vocal levels, everything about this recording screams perfection. Nat King Cole was at his absolute peak during the recording sessions for this song, pouring all his heart and soul into every note.
Legend has it that “Unforgettable” was written by Irving Gordon after he saw a picture of actress Jane Wyman holding her infant daughter. The sight apparently moved him so profoundly that he penned the lyrics about everlasting love on a paper napkin right then and there. It’s amazing to think that such an enduring classic came into existence in such ordinary circumstances – proof that true genius can emerge from even the most unexpected places.
Nat King Cole's 'The Christmas Song' is the only thing that can make the holiday season feel festive instead of stressful.
8. “The Christmas Song”
With its iconic opening line, "Chestnuts roasting on an open fire", this Nat King Cole classic is synonymous with the festive season. Its velvety-smooth vocals combined with a gentle jazz melody make it one of his most beloved songs of all time. Originally titled "Merry Christmas to You", the song was written by Mel Tormé and Bob Wells in 1944. Nat King Cole recorded his version in 1946 and it quickly became a hit, earning him the nickname "The Christmas King". This timeless classic is a staple for any holiday playlist.
Listening to Nat King Cole's 'Nature Boy' is like taking a musical stroll through a magical forest while wearing a fedora.
9. “Nature Boy”
This iconic Nat King Cole song, popularly known as the "Nature Boy," is a timeless classic that boasts of profound lyrics and enchanting melodies. Its soothing yet powerful notes evoke a sense of tranquility in listeners, making it a favorite across generations. The song's whimsical yet thought-provoking lyrics tell the story of a free-spirited person with an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and wisdom, urging listeners to embrace their inner nature.
This masterpiece bears testimony to Nat King Cole's exceptional musical prowess as he effortlessly blends jazz and pop genres, creating a unique sound that resonates with audiences worldwide. Its remarkable popularity has led to numerous covers by many prominent artists over the years, further cementing its place in music history.
Despite being released over seven decades ago, "Nature Boy" remains relevant today with its themes of self-discovery and mindfulness. It brings to light the universal human desire for inner fulfillment, making it an evergreen favorite that will continue to inspire generations to come.
Interestingly, this song's inspiration comes from an encounter between Cole's guitarist and the eccentric Eden Ahbez, who allegedly lived under the stars and claimed to be from another planet. Ahbez's philosophy of living in harmony with nature inspired him to pen these beautiful lyrics that have since become synonymous with the legendary Nat King Cole.
Nat King Cole's smooth voice could make snakes want to dance, so it's no surprise 'Pretend' made the list of his top 10 songs.
10. “Pretend”
This entry in the top 10 Nat King Cole songs is a sentimental hit that tugs at the heartstrings. "Pretend" was released in 1953 and remains a classic today. With its lyrics about unrequited love, this ballad features Cole's signature smooth tone and captivating piano playing. The song has been covered by various artists over the years, highlighting its timelessness. Many listeners connect with this emotional track on a personal level, making it a beloved addition to any playlist.
When listening to "Pretend," one can't help but be drawn in by the melancholic melody and relatable storyline. Cole's raw yet refined vocal delivery perfectly captures the feelings of longing and heartbreak expressed in the lyrics. Furthermore, the simple yet striking piano accompaniment creates a sense of intimacy between the artist and listener.
One unique aspect of this track is how it manages to balance a somber tone with a hint of optimism. Although the protagonist's love interest may never return his affections, they can still pretend and find solace in their imagination. This added layer of complexity elevates "Pretend" from being just another sad love song into an enduring piece of art.
For those wanting to incorporate this classic tune into their music collection, consider pairing it with other timeless ballads like "Unchained Melody" or "The Way You Look Tonight." These songs share similar themes and emotions while showcasing different artists' interpretations. Additionally, incorporating more Nat King Cole hits like "Mona Lisa" or "Too Young" will create a seamless playlist that transports listeners back in time to an era of unforgettable music.
Samuel Moore 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.
