Unforgettable... with Love is the twelfth studio album by American singer Natalie Cole, released on June 11, 1991, through Elektra Records. It serves as a profound tribute to her late father, legendary jazz crooner Nat "King" Cole, and features her renditions of his most iconic standards. Musical Significance and Production
The album marked a major artistic shift for Natalie Cole, transitioning her from R&B and pop toward the Great American Songbook. It was produced by a high-profile team including David Foster, Tommy LiPuma, and her then-husband André Fischer.
The Virtual Duet: The centerpiece of the album is the title track, "Unforgettable," which used groundbreaking multitrack technology to create a "virtual duet" between Natalie and her father by splicing his original 1961 vocal recording into the track.
Musicianship: The record features a blend of big band and intimate jazz arrangements, with piano contributions from Natalie's uncle, Ike Cole, and renowned musicians like Joe Sample and David "Fathead" Newman. Tracklist (1991 Original)
The album contains 22 standards, running approximately 73 minutes. The Very Thought of You Paper Moon Route 66 Mona Lisa L-O-V-E Smile Lush Life That Sunday, That Summer Orange Colored Sky Medley: For Sentimental Reasons / Tenderly / Autumn Leaves Straighten Up and Fly Right Avalon Don't Get Around Much Anymore Too Young Nature Boy Darling, Je Vous Aime Beaucoup Almost Like Being in Love Thou Swell Non Dimenticar Our Love Is Here to Stay Unforgettable (Duet with Nat King Cole) Commercial Success and Awards
" likely contains a digital copy of Natalie Cole’s twelfth studio album, Unforgettable... with Love . Released on June 11, 1991 Elektra Records
, this album was a monumental shift for Cole, moving away from her established R&B sound to record jazz-influenced pop standards previously performed by her father, Nat King Cole. Album Overview Significance: It served as Natalie Cole's debut for Elektra Records and became the biggest success of her career. Commercial Success:
The album sold over 7 million copies and has been certified 7x Platinum. Critical Acclaim: seven Grammy Awards in 1992, including Album of the Year The Iconic Title Track The standout feature of the album is the title track, " Unforgettable
," which was a pioneering "virtual duet". Natalie’s vocals were digitally layered over her father’s original 1951 recording, creating a sentimental bridge between generations. This specific track won four additional Grammys, including Record of the Year The Great American Songbook Foundation Full Tracklist (Standard 1991 Edition)
The original release contains 22 tracks with a total runtime of approximately 74 minutes:
Released on June 11, 1991, through Elektra Records Unforgettable… with Love
represents the definitive artistic pivot of Natalie Cole’s career. After spending over 15 years establishing herself as an R&B and soul powerhouse, Cole took the momentous step of embracing her father's legacy—jazz legend Nat King Cole—by recording a 22-track homage to the Great American Songbook. Artistic Significance and Impact
The album was more than a tribute; it was a "major comeback" that transformed Cole into a household name for a new generation. Genre Crossing
: At a time when gangsta rap was dominating the charts, Cole successfully reintroduced traditional jazz standards to the pop mainstream. Technological Innovation
: The centerpiece of the album is the title track, "Unforgettable," a "virtual duet" created by splicing Nat King Cole's original 1951 vocals with Natalie’s contemporary performance. Historical Achievement : Cole became the first African-American woman to win the Grammy for Album of the Year for this work. Critical Success and Commercial Reach
The project was both a critical darling and a massive commercial success, certified 7× Platinum by the RIAA with over 14 million copies sold worldwide. Grammy Awards
: In 1992, the album and its title track swept the Grammys, winning Record of the Year Album of the Year Song of the Year among seven total awards. Chart Performance : The album spent five weeks at the top of the Billboard 200 chart in the summer of 1991. Production and Remastering
The album's "lush orchestration" was managed by legendary producers André Fischer, David Foster, and Tommy LiPuma. In 2021, a 30th Anniversary Edition was released by Craft Recordings
, featuring newly remastered audio and bonus tracks like "At Last". Purchase Options
If you are looking to own a physical copy, several versions are available across different platforms: Original 1991 Vinyl : Collectible copies can be found on sites like 30th Anniversary Reissue : Modern 180g vinyl and CD editions are available at LA Phil Store technical recording process behind the virtual duet, or are you interested in a track-by-track breakdown of the album?
Album Review: Natalie Cole, “Unforgettable…With Love” (1991)
Lyrically the song is much lighter fare in comparison to my other favorite (“Non dimenticar means don't forget you are my darling/ WordPress.com
Natalie Cole's 1991 album, Unforgettable... with Love, stands as a monumental achievement in music history, serving both as a profound tribute to her father, Nat King Cole, and a defining pivot in her own career. Released on Elektra Records, this twelfth studio album marked a departure from her R&B roots and cemented her status as a premiere jazz and pop chanteuse. Historical and Cultural Context
For nearly twenty years, Natalie Cole had famously resisted recording her father’s material in an effort to forge her own musical identity. By the late 1980s, however, her shift toward pop standards began with albums like Everlasting. This culminated in the 1991 release of Unforgettable... with Love, a collection of 22 tracks—or 24 on some editions—that reimagined classics previously made famous by Nat King Cole. Production and Technical Innovation
The album was a collaborative powerhouse, produced by David Foster, Tommy LiPuma, and André Fischer. A key technical highlight was the "virtual duet" on the title track, "Unforgettable." Unforgettable
Technological Marvel: Engineers used multitrack recording to fuse Natalie's new vocals with her father’s 1951 studio recording, creating a "sonic bridge" between generations.
Musical Contributions: The arrangements featured lush strings and swing rhythms, with piano accompaniment on several tracks by Natalie’s uncle, Ike Cole. Critical Success and Impact
Grammy Sweep: At the 1992 Grammy Awards, the project won seven awards, including the "Big Three": Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Song of the Year.
Commercial Dominance: The album spent five weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 and has since been certified 7× platinum by the RIAA, with over 14 million copies sold worldwide.
Legacy: Natalie became the first African-American woman to win the Grammy for Album of the Year for this work. It spurred a series of successful follow-ups, including Stardust and Still Unforgettable.
Unforgettable... With Love (1991) is the landmark tribute album by Natalie Cole dedicated to her late father, the legendary Nat King Cole. Released by Elektra Records, it marked a pivotal transition in her career from R&B and pop to jazz and traditional standards. The Story Behind the Music
For years, Natalie Cole had resisted performing her father's repertoire to establish her own musical identity. However, after overcoming a high-profile battle with drug addiction in the 1980s, she felt ready to pay homage to his legacy. The project became a family affair, featuring piano accompaniment by her uncle, Ike Cole, on several tracks.
The album's centerpiece is the title track, "Unforgettable," which utilized then-revolutionary studio technology to create a "virtual duet". By isolating her father's 1961 stereo recording and layering her own vocals over it, producers David Foster and Tommy LiPuma created a seamless performance that felt like a dialogue across generations. Critical and Commercial Success
The album was an immediate sensation, spending five weeks at No. 1 on the Billboard 200.
Natalie Cole - Unforgettable… With Love – Elektra Records
A Daughter’s Tribute: Natalie Cole’s Unforgettable... With Love
In June 1991, Natalie Cole released her twelfth studio album, Unforgettable... With Love Elektra Records
. It wasn't just a comeback; it was a defining "rebranding" that saw her embrace the legacy of her father, jazz legend Nat King Cole, by covering 22 of his classic standards. Audiophile Audition The Landmark "Virtual Duet" The centerpiece of the album is the title track, " Unforgettable ," a revolutionary "virtual duet" produced by David Foster. Technological Marvel
: Engineers took Nat’s original 1951 studio recording and fused it with new instrumental backing and Natalie’s live vocals. Emotional Resonance
: Producer David Foster recalls Natalie and her mother crying as they heard Nat's voice "answering" her in the studio for the first time. Cultural Impact
: The song peaked at #3 on the Billboard Adult Contemporary chart and became a symbol of bridging generational musical gaps. The Great American Songbook Foundation Critical and Commercial Sweep
The album was a juggernaut during the 1992 award season, sweeping the major categories at the 34th Annual Grammy Awards
Natalie Cole - Unforgettable… With Love – Elektra Records
You're referring to the iconic album "Unforgettable" by Natalie Cole, released in 1991 on Elektra Records!
Here's a brief story behind this timeless classic:
The Album
"Unforgettable" is a collaborative album by Natalie Cole, daughter of jazz legend Nat King Cole. The album features Natalie Cole reinterpreting her father's classic hits, along with some new compositions. The project was a tribute to her father's legacy and a way to introduce his music to a new generation.
The Concept
The idea for the album was born when Natalie Cole was approached by her record label, Elektra Records, to produce a tribute album to her father's music. Natalie was initially hesitant, feeling that she couldn't match her father's iconic voice. However, with the support of her team, she decided to take on the challenge. Quincy Jones, who arranged and conducted the strings
The Recording Process
Natalie Cole worked with renowned producers, including Kenneth "Babyface" Edmonds, Phil Ramone, and Nat King Cole's original arranger, Dick Reynolds. The recording process was a labor of love, with Natalie Cole pouring her heart and soul into each track. She reimagined her father's classics, such as "Unforgettable," "Orange Colored Sky," and "The Very Thought of You," while also recording new songs, like "With Love."
The Hit Single: "Unforgettable"
The title track, "Unforgettable," was released as a single and became a massive hit, reaching No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1991. The song earned Natalie Cole a Grammy Award for Record of the Year and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance in 1992.
Awards and Legacy
"Unforgettable" was a commercial success, selling over 4 million copies in the United States and achieving 4x Platinum certification by the RIAA. The album earned Natalie Cole multiple Grammy nominations, including Album of the Year and Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Female Artist.
The album's success helped revive Nat King Cole's legacy, introducing his music to a new audience. Natalie Cole's interpretation of her father's classics has been praised for its sensitivity and respect, showcasing her own vocal talents while honoring her father's memory.
Impact on Music History
"Unforgettable" has become a landmark album in music history, bridging the gap between jazz, pop, and R&B. The album's success paved the way for future tribute albums and collaborations between artists and their family members.
Natalie Cole's "Unforgettable" is a testament to her father's enduring legacy and a celebration of their shared musical heritage.
Was there something specific you'd like to know about Natalie Cole or the album "Unforgettable"? I'm here to help!
The report for the album Unforgettable... with Love by Natalie Cole , released in 1991 under Elektra Records, is as follows: Album Overview Artist: Natalie Cole Release Date: June 11, 1991 Label: Elektra Records Format: Originally released on CD and double vinyl (2xLP) Genre: Vocal Jazz, Traditional Pop, Big Band, and Standards
Production: Produced by André Fischer, David Foster, and Tommy LiPuma Significance and Background
Tribute to Legacy: This album was a tribute to her father, Nat King Cole, featuring covers of standards he made famous.
Technological Innovation: It is most famous for its title track, "Unforgettable," which used multitrack recording technology to create a "virtual duet" between Natalie and her father, who had passed away in 1965.
Career Comeback: The album marked a significant transition for Natalie Cole from R&B to traditional pop, becoming the biggest success of her career.
Album Review: Natalie Cole, “Unforgettable…With Love” (1991)
Introduction
Natalie Cole, the daughter of legendary musician Nat King Cole, released her iconic album "Unforgettable... With Love" in 1991. This album marked a significant milestone in her career, as she paid tribute to her father's musical legacy while showcasing her own artistic talents. Produced by David Foster and released under Elektra Records, "Unforgettable... With Love" became a critically acclaimed and commercially successful album, winning multiple Grammy Awards and solidifying Natalie Cole's position as a respected jazz and R&B artist.
Background and Inspiration
Natalie Cole grew up surrounded by music, with her father's legendary voice and piano playing influencing her from a young age. However, she initially rebelled against her father's genre, opting for a more rock-oriented sound in her early career. It wasn't until the late 1980s that Natalie Cole began to explore her jazz roots, eventually leading to the creation of "Unforgettable... With Love".
The album was conceived as a tribute to Nat King Cole, featuring reworked versions of his classic hits, as well as new material that paid homage to his musical style. Natalie Cole wanted to introduce her father's music to a new generation of listeners while showcasing her own unique interpretation and vocal style.
Musical Style and Collaborations
"Unforgettable... With Love" is a masterclass in blending classic jazz with contemporary R&B and pop sensibilities. Natalie Cole's soulful, velvety voice brings a fresh perspective to her father's timeless songs, while the album's lush arrangements and production provide a rich sonic backdrop. losing the dynamic range
The album features collaborations with an impressive array of musicians, including:
Tracklist and Notable Songs
The album's tracklist includes:
Notable songs include:
Reception and Legacy
"Unforgettable... With Love" received widespread critical acclaim upon its release. The album won six Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best Female Pop Vocal Performance. The album's commercial success was equally impressive, with it reaching platinum certification in the United States and selling over 4 million copies worldwide.
The album's impact extends beyond its commercial success, as it helped introduce Nat King Cole's music to a new generation of listeners. "Unforgettable... With Love" also solidified Natalie Cole's position as a respected jazz and R&B artist, paving the way for future projects.
Conclusion
Natalie Cole's "Unforgettable... With Love" is a landmark album that pays tribute to her father's musical legacy while showcasing her own artistic talents. The album's masterful blend of classic jazz and contemporary R&B, coupled with its impressive collaborations and production, has made it a timeless classic. As a testament to its enduring appeal, "Unforgettable... With Love" continues to inspire new generations of listeners and remains one of the most iconic and beloved albums in Natalie Cole's discography.
The following report summarizes the details of the 1991 studio album Unforgettable... with Love by Natalie Cole. Album Title: Unforgettable... with Love (often referred to simply as Unforgettable Natalie Cole Release Date: June 11, 1991 Elektra Records (catalog numbers: E1-61049, 61049-1) Originally released as a double LP, CD, and cassette Jazz, Traditional Pop, Swing Concept and Production The album served as a tribute to Natalie Cole's father, Nat King Cole
, featuring her covers of standards he previously performed. It was her debut release for Elektra Records and marked a major career comeback and shift from R&B to jazz standards. Producers: André Fischer, David Foster, and Tommy LiPuma Key Feature:
The title track "Unforgettable" is a "virtual duet" created by digitally blending Natalie's vocals with her father's original 1951 recording. Personnel: Features piano accompaniment by her uncle, , on several tracks.
The standard release includes 22 tracks, primarily classic American standards: The Very Thought of You Paper Moon This Can't Be Love That Sunday That Summer Orange Colored Sky (For Sentimental Reasons / Tenderly / Autumn Leaves) Straighten Up and Fly Right Don't Get Around Much Anymore Nature Boy Darling, Je Vous Aime Beaucoup Almost Like Being in Love Thou Swell Non Dimenticar Our Love Is Here to Stay Unforgettable (Duet with Nat King Cole) Achievements and Impact
The album featured 22 carefully curated songs, including:
Other tracks like “Smile,” “Nature Boy,” and “Too Young” further cemented the album as a definitive songbook interpretation.
Released on June 11, 1991, Unforgettable... with Love debuted to widespread acclaim. Critics praised Natalie for avoiding karaoke-style mimicry; instead, she interpreted the songs with lived-in emotion, wisdom, and a vocal clarity that suggested she had finally made peace with her father’s towering shadow.
Commercially, the album was a juggernaut. It peaked at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart and spent over 100 weeks on the album chart. It sold over 14 million copies worldwide, becoming Natalie Cole’s best-selling album and one of Elektra Records’ biggest releases of the era.
At the 34th Annual Grammy Awards in 1992, the album won an astonishing six Grammy Awards, including:
Natalie Cole became the first artist to win Album of the Year posthumously for a duet with a deceased parent—a record that still stands.
The original Unforgettable... with Love was masterfully engineered. The album was recorded using high-end analog equipment, then digitally mastered for CD—a format that, in 1991, offered 16-bit/44.1kHz fidelity. A poorly ripped .rar file might be further compressed to 128kbps or 192kbps MP3, losing the dynamic range, the warmth of the orchestra, and the subtlety of Natalie’s vibrato. The legendary duet’s spatial separation—Nat’s vintage mono vocal against Natalie’s modern stereo performance—becomes muddied.
Both albums, "Unforgettable" and "With Love," highlight Natalie Cole's dedication to preserving the legacy of great American standards while making them accessible to a new generation. "Unforgettable" earned Natalie Cole multiple Grammy Awards in 1992, including Album of the Year and Record of the Year for the title track.
Natalie Cole's work, including these albums, leaves a lasting legacy in the music industry. Her ability to blend genres and generations has inspired many artists. Despite the challenges she faced, both personally and professionally, her discography remains a testament to her talent and enduring appeal.
"Unforgettable" is perhaps Natalie Cole's most iconic album. Released in 1991 by Elektra Records, this album marked a significant point in her career. It was a collaboration with her father, Nat King Cole, achieved through the use of vocals and recordings from her father's extensive catalog. The project combined Natalie's voice with her father's original recordings, creating duets from songs he made famous. This innovative approach won critical acclaim and commercial success.
Key Tracks: