Nat King Cole The Piano Style Of Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole is one of the most influential musicians of the 20th century. His smooth voice, relaxed demeanor, and impeccable piano playing have earned him a place in music history. In this article, we'll explore the piano style of Nat King Cole and its impact on music.
The Early Years
Nat King Cole was born in Montgomery, Alabama in 1919. His family moved to Chicago when he was still a child. He began playing piano at a very young age, and by the time he was a teenager, he was a professional musician. One of his earliest influences was the jazz pianist Earl Hines, who was a major figure in the Chicago jazz scene.
The Nat King Cole Trio
In 1937, Cole formed the Nat King Cole Trio with guitarist Oscar Moore and bassist Wesley Prince. This trio would become one of the most popular and influential groups in jazz history. Cole's piano playing was at the center of the group's sound, and his relaxed, swinging style was a major influence on other pianists of the time.
The group's success led to Cole signing a recording contract with Capitol Records in 1943. His first hit for the label was "Straighten Up and Fly Right," which he co-wrote with lyricist Irving Mills. The song's catchy melody and clever lyrics made it a hit with both pop and jazz audiences.
Cole's Piano Style
What made Nat King Cole's piano playing so special? For starters, he had a unique touch on the keys. His playing was very percussive, with a strong emphasis on the rhythm. He also had a great sense of melody, and his solos were always melodic and memorable.
Cole was a master of the bebop style of jazz, which was characterized by fast tempos, complex harmonies, and virtuosic solos. But he was also capable of playing in a more relaxed, bluesy style, which was perfect for ballads and slow songs.
In addition to his technical skill, Cole was a great improviser. He could take a simple melody and turn it into a dazzling, virtuosic solo. His solos were always tasteful and never overbearing.
The Legacy of Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole's influence on music cannot be overstated. He was a pioneer of the jazz piano style, and his innovations have been felt by generations of musicians. Some of the artists who have cited Cole as an influence include Diana Krall, Harry Connick Jr., and Michael Bublé.
Cole was also an important figure in the Civil Rights Movement. He was one of the first African Americans to host his own television show, and his success paved the way for other black performers.
Nat King Cole died in 1965 at the age of 45, but his music lives on. His recordings continue to be best-sellers, and his influence can be heard in the music of countless artists across many genres.
Conclusion
Nat King Cole was a true musical genius, and his piano playing was a major part of his success. His unique touch and impeccable sense of rhythm and melody have influenced countless pianists and musicians over the years. His legacy is still felt today, and his music will continue to be enjoyed for generations to come.
