A Tribute to the Great Nat King Cole

R&B / Soul · 1965 · 9 tracks

A Tribute to the Great Nat King Cole

November 1, 1965 · Tamla

Imagine stepping into a dimly lit, elegant lounge in the mid-1960s, where Marvin Gaye, before his funk and social commentary eras, is delivering a masterclass in classic vocal interpretation.

This album is pure romance and sophisticated melancholy, draped in rich strings, gentle brass, and a rhythm section that swings with understated grace. It's the sound of a young legend paying homage to an icon, proving his versatility and timeless appeal as a crooner. Perfect for setting a romantic mood or simply luxuriating in the beauty of a bygone era's vocal artistry.

Tracklist · 9 Tracks

01

Nature Boy

2:53

02

Ramblin’ Rose

2:54

03

Too Young

3:50

04

Pretend

2:52

08

To the Ends of the Earth

2:21

09

Sweet Lorraine

2:51

10

It’s Only a Paper Moon

2:28

11

Send for Me

3:01

12

Calypso Blues

4:05

Moments Worth Listening For

The way Gaye's voice effortlessly glides through the melody of "Mona Lisa," showcasing his incredible control and reverence for the original.

The dramatic, swelling string arrangement that elevates "Unforgettable," providing a rich tapestry for Gaye's tender delivery.

The subtle, yet intricate piano solo in "Nature Boy," which offers a moment of instrumental elegance amidst the vocal prowess.

The seamless blend of Gaye's soulful inflections with the classic big band brass in "Too Young," demonstrating his ability to honor tradition while imbuing it with his own spirit.

Where This Album Departs

How does A Tribute to the Great Nat King Cole sound next to the rest of Marvin Gaye's catalogue?

Medium Energy-2.6σ

It runs markedly cooler and more held-back than this artist's baseline.

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