Nat King Cole

Nathaniel Adams Coles, known as Nat King Cole, was one of the most successful and influential vocalists of the twentieth century and an underappreciated jazz pianist whose trio format (piano, guitar, bass) influenced countless subsequent combos. His smooth, intimate vocal style was directly descended from Leroy Carr's urbane blues approach, and his early trio recordings for Capitol featured sophisticated blues-inflected jazz. His crossover to pop balladry with 'Unforgettable,' 'Mona Lisa,' and 'Nature Boy' made him one of the biggest recording stars in the world and the first African American to host a national television show. His piano playing, particularly on early recordings, demonstrates a deep blues foundation.