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The Nat King Cole Story cover

The Nat King Cole Story

Nat King Cole

Album 1961
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About this album

Sound: "A suave blend of jazz and pop, characterized by Nat King Cole's velvety voice and sophisticated arrangements."

Where they were

Released in January 1961, 'The Nat King Cole Story' came at a pivotal moment in Cole's career, following his transition from a successful trio format to a solo artist. This album encapsulated his greatest hits and showcased his evolution as a performer, solidifying his status in the music industry just prior to his untimely passing in 1965.

Why it matters

This compilation album holds significant cultural importance as it features some of Cole's most beloved songs, including 'Unforgettable' and 'The Christmas Song', which have become staples in American music. The album reached No. 2 on the Billboard charts, highlighting its commercial success and lasting impact on the jazz genre.

Essential tracks

  • "Unforgettable" — 'Unforgettable' is arguably Cole's signature song, with its haunting melody and heartfelt delivery exemplifying his unique vocal style.
  • "Nature Boy" — With its introspective lyrics and minimalist arrangement, 'Nature Boy' showcases Cole's ability to convey deep emotion through music.
  • "The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas to You)" — This timeless holiday classic has become synonymous with Christmas celebrations, reflecting Cole's warm vocal style and seasonal charm.
  • "(Get Your Kicks on) Route 66" — 'Route 66' captures the spirit of travel and adventure, with an upbeat rhythm that aligns perfectly with Cole's smooth delivery.

Release Date

January 1, 1961

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

Disc 1

  1. 1 Straighten Up and Fly Right 2:36
  2. 2 Sweet Lorraine 3:22
  3. 3 It’s Only a Paper Moon 2:57
  4. 4 (Get Your Kicks on) Route 66 2:56
  5. 5 (I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons 3:04
  6. 6 The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas to You) 3:11
  7. 7 Nature Boy 2:53
  8. 8 Lush Life 3:46
  9. 9 Calypso Blues 3:25
  10. 10 Mona Lisa 3:27
  11. 11 Orange Colored Sky 2:33
  12. 12 Too Young 3:24
  13. 13 Unforgettable 3:27
  14. 14 Somewhere Along the Way 3:00
  15. 15 Walkin’ My Baby Back Home 2:42
  16. 16 Pretend 2:45
  17. 17 Blue Gardenia 3:04
  18. 18 I Am in Love 2:33

Disc 2

  1. 1 Answer Me, My Love 2:55
  2. 2 Smile 2:53
  3. 3 Darling, je vous aime beaucoup 2:48
  4. 4 The Sand and the Sea 2:41
  5. 5 If I May 2:57
  6. 6 A Blossom Fell 2:41
  7. 7 To the Ends of the Earth 2:25
  8. 8 Night Lights 2:48
  9. 9 Ballerina 2:41
  10. 10 Stardust 3:14
  11. 11 Send for Me 2:30
  12. 12 St. Louis Blues 2:24
  13. 13 Looking Back 2:26
  14. 14 Non dimenticar 3:07
  15. 15 Paradise 3:11
  16. 16 Oh, Mary, Don’t You Weep 1:55
  17. 17 Ay, Cosita Linda 2:13
  18. 18 Wild Is Love 2:48

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