It's Only a Paper Moon - Nat King Cole
"It's Only a Paper Moon" is a classic jazz standard performed by the legendary Nat King Cole. The song was composed by Harold Arlen with lyrics by E.Y. Harburg and Billy Rose, and was first featured in the 1933 musical "The Great Magoo." The theme of the song revolves around the idea of illusion and fantasy, with the lyrics describing a world that is only a paper moon, where things may not be as they seem. Despite the uncertainty and impermanence of this paper moon world, the singer finds comfort and solace in this dreamlike setting. Nat King Cole's smooth and velvety voice perfectly captures the wistful and dreamy essence of the song. His impeccable phrasing and heartfelt delivery bring out the emotional depth of the lyrics, making it a truly captivating listening experience. Notable facts about the song include its enduring popularity and numerous covers by other artists over the years. It has been featured in various films, TV shows, and commercials, solidifying its status as a timeless classic in the American songbook. Overall, "It's Only a Paper Moon" is a beautiful and poignant song that showcases Nat King Cole's talent as a vocalist and his ability to convey complex emotions through music. It remains a beloved favorite among jazz enthusiasts and music lovers alike.
Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole was born on March 17, 1919, in Montgomery, Alabama. He was an American singer, songwriter, and pianist who became one of the most iconic and influential jazz musicians of the 20th century. Cole grew up in Chicago, where he learned to play the piano at a young age and began performing in jazz clubs around the city. In the 1940s, Cole formed the Nat King Cole Trio, which quickly gained popularity for their smooth, sophisticated sound. Cole's velvety voice and impeccable piano skills set him apart from other musicians of the time, earning him a reputation as one of the greatest jazz performers of his generation. Cole's career took off in the 1950s when he signed with Capitol Records and released a string of hit songs, including "Unforgettable," "Mona Lisa," and "Nature Boy." His smooth, romantic ballads and infectious swing music made him a household name and earned him numerous awards and accolades, including several Grammy Awards. In addition to his success as a musician, Cole also broke barriers as an African American artist in a predominantly white industry. He faced discrimination and segregation throughout his career but never let it deter him from pursuing his passion for music. Cole's influence on the music industry was immense, as he paved the way for future generations of African American musicians to achieve success in the mainstream. Tragically, Cole's life was cut short when he died of lung cancer in 1965 at the age of 45. Despite his untimely death, his music continues to resonate with audiences around the world, and his legacy lives on through his timeless songs and enduring influence on the jazz and pop music genres. Nat King Cole will always be remembered as a true musical legend who left an indelible mark on the world of music.