About the song
“Nature Boy,” initially recorded by Nat King Cole, stands as a timeless piece of musical history, released on March 29, 1948, under Capitol Records. Written by the enigmatic Eden Ahbez, the song carries a unique mystique and philosophical depth, inspired by Ahbez’s admiration for the Naturmensch (nature man) lifestyle and his association with the Los Angeles-based “Nature Boys” subculture of the 1940s.
The song quickly rose to prominence despite the challenges posed by the American Federation of Musicians (AFM) ban of 1948, reaching the top of the Billboard music charts and selling over a million copies. “Nature Boy” not only catapulted Nat King Cole to solo stardom but also marked his introduction to a broader, predominantly white music market, solidifying his status as a crossover artist.
However, its success was not without controversy. “Nature Boy” became embroiled in legal disputes, notably with Yiddish composer Herman Yablokoff, who claimed that the song plagiarized his composition “Shvayg mayn harts” (Be Still My Heart). Eventually, ahbez and Yablokoff settled out of court, allowing the song to continue its legacy unimpeded.
The enduring appeal of “Nature Boy” transcends its initial release. It has become a quintessential pop and jazz standard, covered by numerous artists including Frank Sinatra, Sarah Vaughan, and more recently, Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga. Its inclusion in films such as The Boy with Green Hair, The Talented Mr. Ripley, and Moulin Rouge! further cemented its cultural impact, with David Bowie contributing a memorable rendition for the latter.
In recognition of its significance, “Nature Boy” received the Grammy Hall of Fame Award in 1999, solidifying its place in the pantheon of musical classics. Beyond its melodic allure, the song continues to resonate for its philosophical underpinnings and its ability to evoke a sense of introspection and wonderment, making it a timeless piece cherished by generations of listeners worldwide.
Video
Lyrics
There was a boy
A very strange enchanted boy
They say he wandered very far
Very far
Over land and sea
A little shy
And sad of eye
But very wise was he
And then one day
One magic day he passed my way
And while we spoken of many things
Fools and kings
This he said to me
The greatest thing
You’ll ever learn
Is just to love
And be loved in return
And then one day
One magic day he passed my way
And while we spoken of many things
Fools and kings
This he said to me
The greatest thing you’ll ever learn
Is just to love
And be loved
In return