Nat King Cole Quotes, the velvet-voiced jazz legend who turned every note into gold, once said, “The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return”—a timeless truth from a man whose warmth lit up the world. With his smooth baritone and soulful piano, he’s a beacon of grace and resilience. Below are 15 authentic Nat King Cole quotes—sourced from interviews, statements, and songs—shimmering with his gentle spirit. Every word is pure Nat, verbatim and true!
15 Nat King Cole Quotes
- “The greatest thing you’ll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return.” (“Nature Boy,” Single, 1948)
- “Unforgettable in every way, and forever more, that’s how you’ll stay.” (“Unforgettable,” Single, 1951)
- “If you smile through your fear and sorrow, life’s still worthwhile.” (“Smile,” Single, 1954)
- “I’m an interpreter of stories—sitting at my piano, telling tales.” (Interview, Voice of America, c. 1950s)
- “I started out to become a jazz pianist—that’s my heart.” (Interview, DownBeat, July 1960)
- “Music is emotional—you feel it or you don’t.” (Interview, Ebony, November 1961)
- “I may be helping to bring harmony through my music.” (Interview, Jet, March 15, 1979)
- “L-O-V-E—love is all that I can give to you!” (“L-O-V-E,” Single, 1964)
- “People don’t slip—time catches up with them.” (Interview, TIME, March 25, 1957)
- “I’m not playing for musicians—just the guy who works all day.” (Interview, The New York Times, April 28, 1974)
- “There’s just one thing I can’t figure out—my income tax!” (Interview, Billboard, September 20, 1985)
- “I felt something impossible—then I was a father.” (Interview, Ebony, November 1961)
- “Straighten up and fly right—don’t let the buzzards win!” (“Straighten Up and Fly Right,” Single, 1943)
- “I’m a musician at heart—singing came by chance.” (Interview, Jet, March 15, 1979)
- “Mona Lisa—does that smile mean you’re mine?” (“Mona Lisa,” Single, 1950)
Nat King Cole’s words are a battle cry for anyone ready to rise, love, and find harmony—proof that grace starts with a fearless soul.
These quotes push you to shake off the blues, fight with a melody, and shine with timeless soul, straight from a king who’s lived it all with fierce heart.
Which Nat line gets you swaying? Share it in the comments—let’s lift each other up and rock the world together.
Emma Thompson
Hi, I'm Emma Thompson, founder of MyLittleDesire. I share relationship advice, love quotes, and thoughtful gift ideas to help you express your feelings and strengthen your bonds. Let's celebrate love together!
Email – business@mylittledesire.com
