This collaborative album between Nat King Cole and pianist George Shearing was recorded in 1961 and released in 1962 by Capitol Records. Production was handled by Lee Gillette, a frequent collaborator of Cole. The album combines Cole's smooth voice with Shearing's characteristic style, known for his block chord piano technique.
The album reached number 5 on the Billboard Pop Albums chart and was well received by critics, highlighting the chemistry between the two musicians. It includes jazz and pop standards such as 'September Song' and 'Let There Be Love', arranged to showcase the interaction between voice and piano.
Nat King Cole Sings/George Shearing Plays is considered one of the best collaborative works of Cole's career, demonstrating his versatility as a vocalist. Shearing, who was blind, had developed a unique style that perfectly complemented Cole's phrasing, resulting in a timeless vocal jazz album.