Nat King Cole was an acclaimed 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 mark on popular music. He first rose to fame as the leader of the Nat King Cole Trio, which was known for its jazz and swing performances. His move to solo work produced hits such as “Unforgettable,” “Mona Lisa,” and “The Christmas Song” (also known as “Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire”). Cole’s warm vocals and elegant charm made him a popular figure in music and entertainment.
1. Stand upright and fly properly
“Straighten Up and Fly Right” is a classic song popularized by Nat King Cole and his trio. Released in 1943, the song was a huge hit, showcasing Cole’s smooth, engaging style. Written by Cole and Irving Mills, the song has a catchy melody and clever lyrics that combine humor with the message of staying on the right track and staying out of trouble. Its swinging rhythm and Cole’s distinctive vocals helped make it a memorable and timeless piece in the jazz and pop genres. “Straighten Up and Fly Right” remains one of Nat King Cole’s best-known songs and is 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 longing for a perfect romantic relationship, with themes of lasting love and devotion. The track became one of Cole’s most popular hits and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Its romantic mood and Cole’s heartfelt delivery have made “When I Fall in Love” a classic, enduring staple of the jazz and pop music repertoire.
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 known for its soft, melancholy melody and Cole’s velvety vocals.
The lyrics of “Stardust” evoke a sense of nostalgia and longing, reflecting on past love stories and cherished memories. Nat King Cole’s rendition is celebrated for its warmth and emotional depth, with his rich, soothing voice perfectly complementing the introspective and wistful nature of the song.
“Stardust” remains a timeless classic 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 of American music.
4. Unforgettable
“Unforgettable” by Nat King Cole is a timeless classic, first recorded in 1951. Written by Irving Gordon, the song features a lush orchestral arrangement and Cole’s smooth, warm vocals.
The lyrics express deep admiration and awe towards someone 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 famous songs and is known for its enduring appeal and emotional resonance. The song has been covered by many artists and remains a classic example of Cole’s extraordinary ability to convey heartfelt emotions through music.
5. Mona Lisa
“Mona Lisa” is a classic song sung by Nat King Cole in 1950. Written by Ray Evans and Jay Livingston, the song was a huge hit and became one of Cole’s best known pieces. The track is named after the famous 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 vocals and a sophisticated arrangement that captures the romantic and wistful essence of the lyrics. “Mona Lisa” remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its elegant melody and Cole’s captivating performance.
6. Country Boy
“Nature Boy” is a classic song first recorded by Nat King Cole in 1948. Written by Eden Ahbez, the song offers a unique blend of jazz and pop with a dreamy, mystical quality.
The lyrics tell the story of an “outdoorsman” who travels the world in search of the deeper meaning of life and wisdom and finally discovers that “the greatest thing you can ever learn is to love and be loved in return.”
Cole’s performance of “Nature Boy” features soft, warm vocals and a hauntingly beautiful melody. The mix of introspective lyrics and Cole’s emotional delivery has made the song a timeless classic, celebrated for its poetic and philosophical content.
7. Too young
“Too Young” is a romantic ballad by Nat King Cole, released in 1951. Written by Sidney Lippman and Sylvia Dee, the song features Cole’s soft, delicate vocals and a lush orchestral arrangement.
The lyrics of “Too Young” deal with youthful love and the bittersweet realization that you’re too young to fully understand or appreciate its depth. Cole’s performance captures the song’s wistfulness and gentle nostalgia.
“Too Young” became a huge hit and is often remembered for its enchanting melody and Cole’s soulful delivery, cementing 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, later added 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 1954 version is one of the best-known interpretations of the song. His soft, soothing vocals add an extra layer of warmth and tenderness to the song’s already deeply emotional and hopeful lyrics.
The song’s message promotes resilience and positivity, embodying the idea that even in the face of adversity, you can find reasons to smile and carry on. “Smile” has become a timeless classic that has been covered by many artists over the years and continues to remain a beloved part of Nat King Cole’s legacy.
9. Pretend
“Pretend” is a song by Nat King Cole, released in 1960. The song was written by Jack Lawrence and showcases Cole’s smooth and soulful singing 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 intact. The track is known for its soulful delivery and melancholy melody, highlighting Cole’s ability to convey deep emotions through his music. “Pretend” remains a cherished part of Nat King Cole’s repertoire and is appreciated for its lyrical depth and Cole’s masterful performance.
10. LOVE
“LOVE” is a classic song by Nat King Cole from 1965. The song was written by Bert Kaempfert, Milt Gabler and Bob Russell and features a playful and cheerful 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, captivating vocals add charm and joy to the song, making it a wonderful and unforgettable piece.
Celebrated for its catchy melody and the way it captures the essence of romantic affection, “LOVE” 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 collaborator with Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us on social media below.
