Nat King Cole’s prodigious career for three decades was somewhat of a watershed moment for America. During a period of significant racism and social upheaval, Cole broke the color barrier in various ways during his career– despite facing intense discrimination Cole recorded over 100 songs that landed on the pop charts, became the top-selling act on Capitol Records during the 40’s (despite being the only black musician on the label), and from 1956 to 1957 he hosted a variety series on NBC entitled The Nat King Cole Show which gave him the distinction of being the first African American to host a nationally broadcasted television show.
His 1957 album Just One Of Those Things is perhaps his most beloved album, encompassing all of the things that made him a constant figure in the charts during the course of his career. His baritone voice, draped in honey with what sounds like perfect pitch, jumps out of your speakers with clarity and poise in a way that only those old albums truly can. His piano playing sounds like a dalliance through open meadows, playfully ambling alongside the big band arrangements and creating a world for three minutes at a time that are punctuated with his storytelling. One thing I appreciated most about this album is how smooth the whole thing sounds– there isn’t a single note or decision that feels forced, capturing the cool and carefree mood of Cole in every moment.
Standout Songs: “A Cottage For Sale”, “These Foolish Things (Remind Me Of You)”, “Don’t Get Around Much Anymore”
