The Nat King Cole Story
Nat King Cole · 1961
103 min · 36 tracks · jazz
A suave blend of jazz and pop, characterized by Nat King Cole's velvety voice and sophisticated arrangements.
Why this album works
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.
- Best for
- steady, consistent energy levels long, immersive listening sessions contemplative evening ambiance
- Context
- 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.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Dave Brubeck· Bing Crosby· Dean Martin· Ella Fitzgerald· Andy Williams· Ray Charles· Tony Bennett· Chet Atkins
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 Straighten Up and Fly Right 2:36
- 2 Sweet Lorraine 3:22
- 3 It’s Only a Paper Moon 2:57
- 4 (Get Your Kicks on) Route 66 2:56
- 5 (I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons 3:04
- 6 The Christmas Song (Merry Christmas to You) Standout 3:11
- 7 Nature Boy Standout 2:53
- 8 Lush Life 3:46
- 9 Calypso Blues 3:25
- 10 Mona Lisa 3:27
- 11 Orange Colored Sky 2:33
- 12 Too Young 3:24
- 13 Unforgettable Standout 3:27
- 14 Somewhere Along the Way 3:00
- 15 Walkin’ My Baby Back Home 2:42
- 16 Pretend 2:45
- 17 Blue Gardenia 3:04
- 18 I Am in Love 2:33
Disc 2
- 1 Answer Me, My Love 2:55
- 2 Smile 2:53
- 3 Darling, je vous aime beaucoup 2:48
- 4 The Sand and the Sea 2:41
- 5 If I May 2:57
- 6 A Blossom Fell 2:41
- 7 To the Ends of the Earth 2:25
- 8 Night Lights 2:48
- 9 Ballerina 2:41
- 10 Stardust 3:14
- 11 Send for Me 2:30
- 12 St. Louis Blues 2:24
- 13 Looking Back 2:26
- 14 Non dimenticar 3:07
- 15 Paradise 3:11
- 16 Oh, Mary, Don’t You Weep 1:55
- 17 Ay, Cosita Linda 2:13
- 18 Wild Is Love 2:48
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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