Description
Nate King Cole – Ultimate – Double 180 Gram Vinyl Records
Nat King Cole’s Ultimate is a lovingly curated compilation album that celebrates the extraordinary career of one of the most iconic voices in music history. Released in various editions over the years, this collection brings together many of Cole’s timeless classics, showcasing his unmatched ability to blend jazz, pop, and romantic balladry into a unique style that captivated audiences worldwide.
Ultimate serves as both an introduction for new listeners and a nostalgic journey for long-time fans, encapsulating the essence of a career that spanned decades and left an indelible mark on the world of music.
Born Nathaniel Adams Coles on March 17, 1919, Nat King Cole began his career as a jazz pianist, leading the influential Nat King Cole Trio in the late 1930s and early 1940s. Though his talent on the piano earned him acclaim, it was his velvety baritone voice that brought him international fame.
As one of the first Black artists to achieve mainstream success in the United States, Cole broke racial barriers in the music industry and became a cultural icon. Songs like Unforgettable and Mona Lisa not only topped the charts but also became emblematic of 20th-century romantic music. His charm, elegance, and warmth resonated with audiences, and his contributions to music continue to influence artists across genres.
The tracklist for Ultimate includes many of Cole’s most beloved songs, reflecting the depth and range of his artistry.
Ultimate highlights Nat King Cole’s journey from jazz pianist to romantic balladeer. His early work with the Nat King Cole Trio is characterized by its sophisticated jazz arrangements, witty lyrics, and rhythmic drive. Songs like Straighten Up and Fly Right reflect the trio’s groundbreaking contributions to jazz.
As his career progressed, Cole transitioned into lushly orchestrated pop ballads, often working with renowned arrangers like Gordon Jenkins and Nelson Riddle. These recordings, such as Unforgettable and When I Fall in Love, feature sweeping strings and meticulous arrangements that frame Cole’s voice with elegance and grandeur.
Nat King Cole was not only a musical pioneer but also a trailblazer in breaking racial barriers. In 1956, he became the first Black artist to host a national television program in the United States, The Nat King Cole Show. Despite its cancellation due to lack of sponsorship—a result of racial prejudice—Cole’s achievements paved the way for future generations of Black artists in the entertainment industry.
Cole’s music transcended racial and cultural boundaries, earning him a global audience and cementing his place as a symbol of sophistication and timeless artistry. His influence can be heard in the work of artists ranging from Ray Charles to Michael Bublé.
Ultimate has been praised for its ability to distill Cole’s extensive catalog into a cohesive listening experience. Critics and fans alike appreciate the way the compilation captures the essence of his artistry—his unmatched vocal delivery, his innovative jazz beginnings, and his transformation into a global pop icon.
The timeless nature of Cole’s music ensures that Ultimate remains a staple for those seeking a deeper appreciation of his contributions to music and culture. His voice continues to be synonymous with romance, elegance, and emotional depth, making him an enduring figure in the world of music.
Ultimate is a fitting tribute to Nat King Cole’s unparalleled career. With its selection of timeless classics, it captures the breadth and depth of his artistry, showcasing why he remains one of the most celebrated and influential musicians of all time. Whether you’re drawn to his jazzy roots or his lush ballads, Ultimate offers something for everyone, serving as both a gateway into Cole’s world and a heartfelt reminder of why his music continues to resonate across generations.
Limited edition clear vinyl LP! As part of the celebration of the global entertainment legend’s centennial year, this collection showcases Nat King Cole’s music on 2-LP. It includes an exclusive new duet of “The Girl From Ipanema,” pairing Cole’s original vocals with newly recorded vocals by Blue Note Records artist Gregory Porter, whose much lauded 2018 album tribute to Cole, Nat King Cole and Me was nominated for a GRAMMY. Ultimate includes all the Nat King Cole favorites such as Unforgettable, L-O-V-E, Nature Boy, Mona Lisa, Route 66 & more.
Brand new, never played and still in the factory plastic sealed
Track Listing
(Get Your Kicks On) Route 66
Straighten Up And Fly Right
(I Love You) For Sentimental Reasons
Sweet Lorraine
Unforgettable
Walkin’ My Baby Back Home
Mona Lisa
Pretend
Quizas, Quizas, Quizas (Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps)
Love Me As Though There Were No Tomorrow
Stardust
Orange Colored Sky
When I Fall In Love
The Very Thought Of You
Perfidia
Let There Be Love
Those Lazy-Hazy-Crazy Days Of Summer
L-O-V-E
Smile
Nature Boy
The Girl From Ipanema (with Gregory Porter)
