Johnny Mathis~Live~Tribute to Nat King Cole~ Cole Trio Medley & Stardust

This is the third in a series of four videos honoring Johnny's upcoming special birthday on September 30th, from his Tribute to Nat King Cole, 1983, UK. In between the pieces, Johnny offers a perspective into Cole's development from jazz pianist to ballad singer, and describes the marriage of the beautiful composition of the song "Stardust" with Cole's unique gifts as a singer, as an "Irresistible combination". I am sure I am not alone in appreciating the 'irresistible essence' Johnny brings to this whole Cole special via his impeccable reverence to Cole's original arrangements, shared with the same level of perfection and dedication he describes Cole bringing to his music and work.

Timing is everything 'they say'. Please check the link below sharing news of the Nat King Cole (Generation Hope) Foundation's honoring of Johnny on November 20th, Boca Raton FL, by Nat's twin daughters, Timolin and Casey Cole, at the 'Stardust Affair" (..... how appropriate!). Johnny will receive the "Nat King Cole Lifetime Achievement Award of Unforgettable Music." To quote :

"Johnny Mathis, for more than 50 years, has been one of the most celebrated singers in the world, and we are thrilled to recognize this wonderful man with the Nat King Cole Lifetime Achievement Award for Unforgettable Music," said Timolin Cole. "By raising funds for music education, perhaps we will help inspire a future Johnny Mathis or Nat King Cole." While ardent and new fans celebrate Johnny's 'other worldly' voice, gifts of expression, style and gentle self, it's wonderful and so fitting for him to receive another such honor - and from an organization embodying the spirit of a man whose music meant to so much to him as a developing artist. (The foundation was founded in 2008.) http://www.sys-con.com/node/1532377

What a wonderful tribute - and in Johnny's 75th year! I think this clearly fits the category of 'Kismet'. I love what Tavis Smiley said in his interview of Johnny two years ago- or so- around the release of "Night to Remember" ........ "And we are very fortunate to live in the time of one, Johnny Mathis, a legend in his own time."

Please enjoy these two pieces: first, a medley from the Cole Trio (you'll have to listen to know which ones.....), and "Stardust", one of the most defining songs of Cole's legacy. Kick back - (not too far- for these first numbers may inspire you to get up and 'swing'!). And then get ready to 'melt' as "Stardust" touches your heart.

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[mcoble84]

Takes me back to my 20's and at 78 that is hard to do.

[lenoremewton]

@mcoble84 - I would think- closing eyes and listening to the music would transport you! And as another singer used to say "Young At Heart"! Enjoy.

[mageorge1955]

This is exquisite. Thank you.

[lenoremewton]

@mageorge1955 - you're very welcome- glad to be able to share it-. Johnny doing what is probably among his favorite things to do- sing the songs of Nat King Cole and honor him. Enjoy.

[catinhotlanta]

What is amazing to me is that he is able to take someone else's signature song and make it his own. As in this special, "Too Young", "Unforgettable" & "Stardust" are now his songs. He hijacked "Moon River" from Andy Williams, does a comparable rendition of "The Way We Were" via Streisand and no one has done "Maria" after hearing his version.

Thank you for the Cole tribute. I hadn't seen any of this (how did I miss it???) and it is obvious he was in great form for this special.

[lenoremewton]

@catinhotlanta - you're so welcome- it's hard to find YT videos- b/c so many people have Johnny videos up now- can't blame them- they all get hidden. Enjoy, enjoy! the last one includes Johnny singing "Unforgettable'- i think he is wonderful in all of these.

[mcoble84]

What a wonderful medley and no one can sing it like JohnnyMathis.Took me back to the 50s.

[lenoremewton]

@catinhotlanta - There will be no one- never- he is truly, truly one of a kind. Aren't we lucky to have been around during these wonderful years? Enjoy:)

[catinhotlanta]

Can you imagine someone doing a tribute to Johnny say some 20 years or so from now? Who could possibly sing remotely like him, with his passion and interpretation? I doubt that person has been born.

[lenoremewton]

@beweau - I'm so sorry for your loss. Johnny has a god given talent of a voice that soothes souls- i do not say this lightly - i've heard this from many and it is my own experience- and in fact what drew to him/his music during a challenging time in life. I'm so glad your'e enjoying these- and thanks to others who share as well. Take care.