About the song
Certainly! Here’s an introduction to the song “Mona Lisa” by Nat King Cole:
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“Mona Lisa,” performed by the legendary Nat King Cole, is a timeless classic that has captivated listeners for decades. Released in 1950, this enchanting ballad was composed by the prolific songwriting duo Jay Livingston and Ray Evans. It quickly became one of Cole’s signature songs, solidifying his status as a musical icon.
The song was featured in the film “Captain Carey, U.S.A.” and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song in 1950. “Mona Lisa” was later included in Nat King Cole’s album “Unforgettable” in 1952, an album that showcased Cole’s smooth, velvety voice and impeccable phrasing, earning him a place among the greatest vocalists of his time.
“Mona Lisa” achieved remarkable success on the charts, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed for eight weeks. Its popularity was further cemented when it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame in 1992, a testament to its enduring appeal and significant impact on the music industry.
The lyrics of “Mona Lisa” poetically explore the enigmatic smile of Leonardo da Vinci’s famous painting, comparing it to the mysterious allure of a romantic interest. Nat King Cole’s tender, expressive delivery of the song brings out the melancholy and longing inherent in the lyrics, making it a deeply emotional listening experience.
Nat King Cole’s rendition of “Mona Lisa” remains a beloved classic, cherished by listeners of all ages. Its elegant melody, coupled with Cole’s sublime interpretation, ensures that “Mona Lisa” continues to be a highlight in the rich tapestry of American music history.
Video
Lyrics
Mona Lisa, Mona Lisa, men have named you
You’re so like the lady with the mystic smile
Is it only ’cause you’re lonely they have blamed you?
For that Mona Lisa strangeness in your smile?
Do you smile to tempt a lover, Mona Lisa?
Or is this your way to hide a broken heart?
Many dreams have been brought to your doorstep
They just lie there and they die there
Are you warm, are you real, Mona Lisa?
Or just a cold and lonely lovely work of art?
Do you smile to tempt a lover, Mona Lisa?
Or is this your way to hide a broken heart?
Many dreams have been brought to your doorstep
They just lie there and they die there
Are you warm, are you real, Mona Lisa?
Or just a cold and lonely lovely work of art?
Mona Lisa, Mona Lisa