The Songwriting Legacy of Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole

When discussing legendary American vocalists, Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole are often celebrated for their influential singing careers. However, both artists do have a rich history as songwriter and collaborator. This article delves into the songwriting contributions of these two musical geniuses, exploring their roles as composers and how their unique talents combined to create timeless classics.

Frank Sinatra's Songwriting Credit

Frank Sinatra was primarily known as a premier performer and interpreter of songs rather than a songwriter. Sinatra did, however, contribute to the songwriting process through collaboration. He is credited with co-writing seven songs, revealing a side many are less familiar with. Some of his notable collaborations include:

I’m a Fool to Want You (1951) Mistletoe and Holly (1957) Mr. Success (1958) Peachtree Street (1950) Sheila (1949) Take My Love (1950) This Love of Mine (1941)

These songs highlight Sinatra's ability to contribute not only to the lyrics but also to the overall creative process, often influencing the tempo and interpretation of the recordings.

Nat King Cole's Prolific Songwriting Career

Nat King Cole, on the other hand, was a much more prolific songwriter. Renowned for his rich baritone voice, Cole was also a skilled jazz pianist and the leader of the King Cole Trio. His repertoire includes hits like “Straighten Up and Fly Right,” showcasing his talent as a solo performer and bandleader.

Among his numerous works, some notable songs include:

Straighten Up and Fly Right (1943) Beautiful Moons Ago I’m an Errand Boy for Rhythm Sheila This Love of Mine (1941)

Furthermore, Cole's songwriting career was often collaborative, with some of his works being co-created with other talented musicians like Ovland Moore, Don George, or Irving Mills. Notably, Cole penned a few songs on his own, including:

I’m a Shy Guy (1945) My Mother Told Me (1949)

His transition from being a songwriter to a focus on performing songs written by others is well-documented. After gaining greater success as a singer, Cole largely ceased songwriting, dedicating his energy to live performances and recording.

Collaborations and Credits

While Sinatra and Cole are not extensively recognized as individual songwriters, it is important to note that an artist's name can appear on songwriting credits even if they contributed minimally to the composition. For instance, if an artist significantly altered the tempo or lyrics of a song, they might still be listed as a co-writer.

Nevertheless, the contributions of both artists to the music industry extend beyond their performances. Sinatra's co-writing credits showcase his creative input in the recording process, while Cole’s extensive songwriting portfolio highlights his enduring talent as a musician and composer.