Nat King Cole was the first to make Bobby Troup’s now-immortal song “Route 66” a national hit.
Here is Cole, performing the song in 1950. Cole was known for his ultra-smooth voice, but he also was an outstanding jazz pianist. Here, you can see both those talents on display.
I remember watching Nat King Cole’s 15 minute network (ABC, I think) TV program in 1953 and 54. We actually got extra credit in junior high school music class for writing a brief summary of each program. He’s one of the real class acts from that era. I wish I could say that I remember him as he sang “Get Your Kicks on Route 66,” but I can’t. But what are the odds…? Really.