Nat King Cole can indeed be considered a crooner, although his style and repertoire set him apart from other artists in the genre. While crooners were typically associated with white singers performing romantic pop music, Cole, an African American artist, embraced this style and made it his own.
To understand Cole's classification as a crooner, it is important to first define what a crooner is. A crooner is a singer who delivers romantic or sentimental songs with a smooth, mellow, and often intimate vocal style. They are known for their ability to convey emotion through their vocals, often accompanied by orchestral arrangements. Popular crooners of the time included Frank Sinatra, Bing Crosby, and Perry Como.
Nat King Cole, with his velvety smooth voice and effortless delivery, fit into this mold. However, what set him apart was his ability to infuse his own unique style and interpretation into his performances. While he did perform romantic pop music associated with white singers, he also incorporated elements of jazz and Rhythm and Blues into his songs, giving them a distinct flavor.
One of Cole's notable characteristics as a crooner was his ability to convey deep emotions through his singing. Whether it was longing, heartbreak, or joy, he had a way of connecting with his audience and evoking powerful feelings. His rendition of songs like “Unforgettable,” “Mona Lisa,” and “The Very Thought of You” showcased his mastery of the crooner style, leaving a lasting impact on listeners.
Another aspect that solidifies Cole's status as a crooner is his association with orchestral arrangements. Crooners were often accompanied by lush, sweeping orchestras that enhanced the romantic and sentimental nature of their performances. Cole frequently collaborated with orchestras and arrangers, such as Nelson Riddle and Gordon Jenkins, to create rich and elegant musical backdrops for his vocals.
It is worth noting that while Cole embraced the crooner style, he also made significant contributions to jazz music. He was an accomplished pianist and bandleader, and his earlier recordings showcased his talent for improvisation and swing. However, as his career progressed, he leaned more towards the pop-oriented crooner style, appealing to a broader audience.
Nat King Cole can be considered a crooner due to his smooth, mellow vocal style, his ability to convey deep emotions, and his association with orchestral arrangements. While he incorporated elements of jazz and Rhythm and Blues into his music, his performances of romantic pop songs aligned with the crooner tradition. Cole's unique blend of musical influences and his undeniable talent set him apart as a crooner with his own distinct style and legacy.