Home Latest ‘The Christmas Song’ – The Nat King Cole Trio – TOTD
‘The Christmas Song’ – The Nat King Cole Trio – TOTD

‘The Christmas Song’ – The Nat King Cole Trio – TOTD

0
0
On these twelve days before the 25th I’ll be selecting my twelve favorite Christmas tunes that may not be obscure but are rarely on Christmas compilations or piped through shopping center speakers.

Yes you know the song and yes Nat King Cole recorded the one you always hear but this particular recording is not the one you know. The one you know was recorded in 1961 for Cole’s solo Christmas album. This one was recorded in 1946 by The Nat King Cole Trio. It’s the same song but I think it’s the superior version.

You’ll hear the familiar guitar lick at the beginning by Oscar Moore but instead of a sweeping string section, he’s accompanied by Nat King Cole on piano and Johnny Miller on the double bass. And that’s it. By and large I prefer a “less is more” approach to music and this rendition of ‘The Christmas Song’ is partly why. Also, you’ll notice a slightly more syncopated style in the music and especially the vocals. That’s because this recording was intended for more of a jazz audience than the later, more mainstream version. But still, the same warmth and comfort of the more popular version remains.

If you have an interest in alternate recordings of famous songs I would recommend listening to this. For me, Nat King Cole, Johnny Miller and Oscar Moore create the same Christmas feeling an entire studio full of musicians can.

Facebook
Twitter
YouTube
Instagram
SOCIALICON