How to Get Into Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole transformed the musical landscape with his smooth, velvety voice that transcended the boundaries of jazz, creating a timeless connection with listeners.
Getting into Nat King Cole can be daunting with a vast catalog spanning decades. This guide provides a clear entry point starting with 'Love Is the Thing', showcasing his smooth vocal style and rich harmonies. You'll learn how to navigate through his essential works and discover the varied sounds that define his timeless appeal.
Start here
Love Is the Thing
1957
Best starting point
Instantly engaging with a memorable melody, it encapsulates Cole's charm and style, making it an ideal standalone introduction.
Is this for you?
Good fit if you like
- romantic evenings for two
- steady pacing for relaxation
- velvet voice and lush orchestration
- intimate moments of reflection
- background ambiance at dinner
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy tracks
- prefer standalone singles
Songs to start with
If you'd rather pick a song than an album.
-
1
"Cachito" — from Cole Español (1958)
establishes the sonic palette early
-
2
"September Song" — from Nat King Cole Sings/George Shearing Plays (1962)
establishes the emotional core of the record
-
3
"Those Lazy-Hazy-Crazy Days of Summer" — from Those Lazy Town-Hazy-Crazy Days of Summer (1963)
establishes the sonic palette early
-
4
"Tell Me All About Yourself" — from Tell Me All About Yourself (1960)
establishes the sonic palette early
-
5
"Harlem Blues" — from St. Louis Blues (1963)
accessible entry with immediate hook
-
6
"Welcome to the Club" — from Welcome to the Club (1959)
establishes the sonic palette early
Listening paths
Pick a path through Nat King Cole's catalog.
Explore the core of Nat King Cole's timeless music.
Start with Nat King Cole's most inviting albums.
Delve into the varied styles and themes in his catalog.
Go deeper
Common questions
Where should I start with Nat King Cole?
Start with Love Is the Thing (1957).
What does Nat King Cole sound like?
Each track unfolds with a gentle swing, layering smooth melodies over rich harmonic textures that breathe life into the listener's imagination. Rooted in jazz.
How many albums does Nat King Cole have?
Nat King Cole has 81 releases in their discography, including 57 albums and 6 EPs.