Nat King Cole Vinyl Records & Discography

Who is Nat King Cole? A Brief Career Overview

Introducing the smooth and velvety voice that defined an era--Nat King Cole! Born Nathaniel Adams Coles on March 17, 1919, this legendary American singer, jazz pianist, and actor rose to fame with his soulful smoothness, effortlessly crossing genres from jazz to pop and adult contemporary. Often recognized simply as "Nat King Cole," his remarkable career transcended the music industry, showcasing groundbreaking achievements that made him a trailblazer in an era marked by racial tension.

Cole's enchanting baritone voice graced the charts with over 150 singles reaching Billboard's Pop, R&B, and Country charts, earning him the affectionate title of "The Voice of the Century." His contributions to music, including classics like "Unforgettable," "Mona Lisa," and "When I Fall In Love," solidified his place in music history, especially as collectors sought out his stunning vinyl releases that articulated a world of emotion and artistry. Nat King Cole's influence in the vinyl community remains influential, making him not just a celebrated icon but a cornerstone of vinyl culture.

Nat King Cole's Early Life and Background

Nathaniel Adams Coles was born in Montgomery, Alabama, but would soon call Chicago home after his family relocated when he was just four years old. Growing up in the vibrant Bronzeville neighborhood, Nat was surrounded by an array of musical influences, with his mother serving as the church organist and his father's influence as a Baptist minister paving a path for his artistic expression. It was here that Nat discovered his passion for music--beginning formal piano lessons by the age of 12 and building a repertoire that spanned jazz, gospel, and classical sounds.

As a child, Nat's musical talent blossomed early. He performed for the first time at just four years old, belting out tunes in church. He was heavily involved in music programs during his high school years, sneaking out to soak in the sounds of legendary artists like Louis Armstrong and Earl Hines in local clubs. These formative experiences shaped his affinity for vinyl records, setting the stage for his future as one of the greatest vocalists the world has ever known.

The Musical Influences That Shaped Nat King Cole's Sound

Nat King Cole's sound was a beautiful mosaic of musical influences that helped him craft his signature style. His love for jazz was deeply rooted in the works of predecessors like Louis Armstrong and Duke Ellington, whose improvisational flair he absorbed during his club-hopping escapades in Chicago. The ease with which he transitioned between vocal pop and jazz instrumental showcased this formative influence.

Moreover, early inspirations from gospel music reflected in his improvisational skills on the piano and his emotional depth when delivering lyrics. Cole admired iconic jazz records, including those from fellow artists on vinyl, including Okeh and Columbia records, which undoubtedly influenced his own recordings. This confluence of genres and influences is what set Cole apart as a multidimensional artist beloved by many.

How Nat King Cole Entered the Music Industry

Nat King Cole made his undeniable entrance into the music industry as he formed The King Cole Trio in the late 1930s. Initially venturing into jazz as a pianist, Nat quickly transitioned to become the group's lead vocalist, encouraged by a nightclub patron's insistence that he sing. His charismatic performances led to more vocal requests, eventually marking the Trios' shift towards popular music that appealed to the masses.

With the trio's success, Nat recorded tracks on vinyl under various pseudonyms, as Capitol Records sought to create a brand around his unique sound. Challenges abounded, especially with race-related barriers in the industry, yet Cole pushed through, gaining admiration for his soulful voice and innovative approaches to jazz. His journey culminated in signing with Capitol Records, significantly contributing to the label's identity and securing his legacy as "The House That Nat Built."

Nat King Cole's Breakthrough and Rise to Fame

Nat King Cole's breakthrough moment can be traced to "The Christmas Song" in 1946, a beloved classic that continues to resonate with listeners today. Its vinyl release helped it achieve massive airtime, climbing the charts and solidifying Cole's place in music history. As a staple of the holiday season, this song, along with others like "Mona Lisa" and "Unforgettable," gave Cole extraordinary commercial success with millions of records sold worldwide.

From the enthusiastic public reception to numerous accolades, Cole's rise to fame transformed his career trajectory. He became a television personality with his own show, the first variety program hosted by an African American, showcasing his versatile talents while breaking racial barriers. Nat King Cole's sustained success ultimately transformed him into a household name and established him as an influential figure in music--a true legend.

How Personal Life Shaped Nat King Cole's Music

Nat King Cole's music was deeply intertwined with the intricate stories of his personal life. His marriage to singer Maria Hawkins enriched his artistry, but his struggles with racial discrimination posed challenges that influenced his perspective. Throughout his career, Cole faced prejudice, landing him in controversial situations that informed his songwriting and the emotional outreach of his performances.

He was known for his thoughtful lyrics and strong sense of community, actively participating in civil rights issues and showcasing empathy through his music. Personal relationships and family, particularly his daughter Natalie Cole, greatly influenced his legacy, as their collaborative duet on "Unforgettable" brought his music to a new generation. Nut King Cole's journey through life's challenges is reflected in his empathetic artistry and timeless classics.