Kurt Elling - Nature Boy - Jazz and Orchestra

Thursday April 17th 2008, Opera House, Sydney, Australia
Nature Boy with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra.
Described by New York Times as 'the standout male jazz vocalist of our times', Kurt Elling's smooth four-octave baritone voice is matched only by his emotional range: from quietly crooned love songs to virtuosic vocal displayed. For multi-award winner and 2008 Grammy Award nominee, Elling, it's about communication. He says 'I want people to be surprised, to be moved, to laugh, to remember something important they may have forgotten, I want them to have what they need.'

[@MichaelGoldenberg]

Clearly, Kurt Elling's passion is frightening to some. Their loss. I've seen him six or seven times in person and he never disappoints. The best male jazz singer on the planet.

[@pepegreenos4359]

have you visited other plents?

[@MichaelGoldenberg]

@@pepegreenos4359 Only the jazz clubs.

[@toolboxevolution7456]

Period.

[@patrickscutella836]

I envy the freedom he sings with.

[@phillipbledsoejr.6667]

is there a version of this song on spotify?

[@felixade]

15yrs in and I still love these presentations by Kurt Elling ❤️

[@MidaliaLebron]

I don't know what some of these people are talking about. Music isn't about perfection, it's about how it conveys emotion and I LOVE THIS RENDITION. I am a new Kurt Elling fan!!! Amazing voice..

[@TheGarageboyz]

Ya? He gets slagged? He's the only one I can think that caught my interest in this genre

[@petercallaway3376]

Kurt Elling is the apex male jazz singer/vocalese/scatmaster of this era. Drummer Kobie Watkins solo was dexterous and the epitome rhythmic finesse. He played one song on my self produced CD “PERFECT PEACE” and we used to Jam at the Velvet Lounge in Chicago 20 years ago. Bassist Rob Amster played a trio gig with me at DePaul University. Pianist Lawrence Hobgood is from Chicago too and a virtuoso of course! I have seen Kurt Elling perform with Mark Murphy, Kevin Mahogany, and the legendary Jon Hendricks! Kurt Elling used to jam with the legendary 🎷 player Von Freeman in the 80’s & 90’s on the Chicago’s South side. Again, Kurt Elling is one of the best jazz male singers of all time!,🎤🎹🎺🎻🎸🥁🎷🪕🎼

[@Mentagasm]

Greetings Peter, from Chicago.

[@Mentagasm]

Kobie Watkins cooks man.

[@camifangloria]

No clue, this performance made me cry several times since I first listened him (at age 8, I can still feel those goosebumps). I cant believe this man is a human 😅

[@marvinhaley4001]

Thanks for giving the accurate names.

[@tardop]

I love how the drummer totally gets lost in his solo. A true master of his art. I love this video.

[@joncraven9434]

Not lost at all. Just too complicated for you.

[@tardop]

@@joncraven9434 the word "lost", in this context, means to get absorbed, transcend. But thank you for your answer. Have a great day!

[@danteleiva7155]

U were wishing someone to replicate u so u could feel interesting right

[@NicolasCharly]

@@danteleiva7155 Why so much animosity?

[@jeper1969]

@@danteleiva7155 “ let’s start some fights on KZbin !”

[@HanlonRazor]

As a musician, I am amazed at how he uses his voice. Absolutely astounding.

[@Mentagasm]

Its wonderful seeing him live in person as well. He is from Chicago so I would get to catch him a lot. He's a very nice cat too.

[@Mentagasm]

He also circular breathes while singing in some instances to which is a Marvelous thing to behold.

[@louise_rose]

Agree! Just saw another live version of this with Kurt, band and orchestra on Mezzo - not sure what venue it was,, likely some opera house or concert hall in Europe - and I was just riveted. Incredible rhythmic control, swing and versatility in the use of his range. He's clearly listened a great deal to Sinatra and Ella Fitzgerald but he makes those stylings completely his own. The orchestra clearly love working with him too. )

[@kipwhite6532]

@@Mentagasm LOL, that is great!

[@uniquerz2337]

Taehyung's taste never disappoint. Whenever he suggests an artist or a song u know it's a gem

[@maryoa3665]

🙄

[@forwhy8723]

@@maryoa3665 😷

[@andeleon6838]

Ew kpop

[@QuestionmarkCosmo]

Who tf is taehyung?

[@sheLuvsManny]

@@forwhy8723yu mad

[@StewartGartland]

Kurt is such a cat, some of these jazz contemporaries are such monsters, the art just grows and grows. Kurt's ability to roar and soar then swoop down to softness and delicacy amply illustrates a singer at the very top of his game. Kurt is another of the many great objects to study in jazz.

[@dhblaloc]

This is why Kurt Elling is my favorite jazz singer. Simply amazing.

[@M0DALsoul]

almost 12 years later and i still cant stop watching this

[@PurveyorOfCuriosities]

I was turning a radio dial one Summer day in Chicago and I stumbled upon Orbert Davis' radio show. His guest that day was Kurt Elling, and during the interview Kurt spoke about the late great Mark Murphy. I knew Kurt Elling's name because he's a Chicago Son, but I didn't know his music. Shamefully, I didn't know Mark Murphy's name at all, but I had heard a few of his songs. Not only did that interview lead me here, it lead me to an amazing songbook of both Elling's and Mark Murphy's songs. So much value discovered from randomly turning a radio dial one Summer day in Chicago. My Creator has since bathed me in some of the best Jazz music, nay, some of the best music ever made. I am so blessed.

[@CommandanteMarco]

He is killing it. Every time I listen to his passionate interpretation it makes me lose some tears. The drum solo is nailing it too...

[@MeelaESQ]

That drummer is EVERYTHING!

[@petercallaway3376]

MeelaESQ Kobie Watkins from Chicago.

[@entitlementkid]

I just shed tears as well. I love it! This group is tight and Elling’s voice is magic. What a gift!

[@nibyafternight1983]

One of the most underrated jazz singers of our era

[@josephcollins3734]

Why doesn't Kurt Elling get more airplay on jazz stations? Come DJs, wake up! He is truly a treasure and one of a kind!

[@leslankhorst2479]

ABSOLUTELY JAW DROPPING vocals and musicianship ALL THE WAY AROUND!!! Wow!! And I say this as a vocalist...Wow!

[@turtle5252]

We all talk about great Kurt's voice, but can we appreciate the drummer work🔥

[@marvinhaley4001]

Oh yes ,yes , yes❤❤❤

[@Pontiac127]

Perfection. Heart and soul. Not too much, not too little💯

[@bournemouthlass]

I'd never heard of Kurt Elling before doing a KZbin search for Nature Boy, what a joy. I so love discovering new artists.

[@mikotondria]

Exactly the same for me. Then one day, one magic day he passed our way - to our little town in the midwest. My friend works there and got us 2nd row seats. I couldn't believe the thrill when I could see him just waiting to come on stage ! HE'S A REAL PERSON ! It was absolutely 2 of the finest hours of existence anyone could ever hope for. I couldn't even cry. It was beyond too much.

[@georgegoodrich4723]

Same here. My vocal coach turned me on to him. He really soars.

[@maravillosisima]

bournemouthlass I

[@bobelston6105]

Goes for me too, thanks to catching him on Jazz FM.

[@jffost5843]

Same thing just happened to me - 2 years later... Fantastic!!

[@matthewbarbour8651]

one of the best jazz singers on the planet

[@sourTRON]

He sings with so much soul. I wish i was there to witness this performance.

[@jsphotos]

Genius voice and incredible drummer!

[@kobiewatkins4364]

Thanks!!

[@chillionaire69]

I was there aswell!... My eyes got wet when he sung "lush life"... that was a magic moment ill treasure for ever..

[@NessaSpring]

I seriously cannot get over how incredible this guy is. Just unbelievable. Best. singer. ever. period.

[@pipersnakis]

There are very few who make my eyes tear-u,p but Kurt Elling does it for me and leaves me wanting to hear more. This performance almost had me crying like a baby and I am three quarters of a century old. I have heard all the greats in that time and Elling outstrips them all IMHO! The pianist and drummer are apt players to meld with this singer...not everyone could!

[@macevedoruiz]

Kurt Elling's is the definitive version of Nature Boy - one of the most haunting songs ever composed.

[@hypnotherapycw]

not with him rewriting the lyrics. that's BULLSHIT. listen to Nat King Cole. the CORRECT lyrics.

[@Silliboi-_-]

@@hypnotherapycw kalm down sir

[@wendyhugo7234]

V tiene un gusto exquisito , vaya si no lo hubiera mencionando ( que le gusta este artista) , no habría escuchado esta canción

[@tedgroves3884]

Kurt does such a great job with this rendition of "Nature Boy". It is right up there and maybe even better than Nat King Coles version. I just cannot stop listening to Kurt and this beautiful song. I have become addicted!

[@honeyb.craine323]

The absolute best to EVER do it!! Kurt Elling is the truth!!!

[@mehtavideo]

I was born in the same magic year as Kurt-67'-and have gone back singing after 12 years. This is so so so inspirational! God bless all your hard work and talent Mr Elling. If i can even get 3/4 of the way to that greatness I'd be amazed.

[@Cheese_Meister]

This was definitely a good night for the singer and drummer.

[@kobiewatkins4364]

Thanks!!

[@thechronicler1066]

I discovered Elling about 20 years ago, and I'm glad my enthusiasm for his sound stands as I see this clip now in 2020. I would hope others feel the same of the great Kurt Elling, still?

[@grouchysmurff]

My x showed me Kurt about 4 years ago and i've been addicted ever sense.

[@PhilCherry3]

That drum solo! Oh My!!!

[@MidaliaLebron]

I showed up last night in SF at a rehearsal with my choir, the Oakland Interfaith Gospel Choir for a Duke Ellington Tribute concert we're doing at Grace Cathedral to see Kurt Elling on stage! He's singing with us!!! I couldn't believe it. I couldn't stop staring at him and he was looking at me like what is her problem..lol.

[@ShiruSama1]

How was the experience?

[@MidaliaLebron]

It was awesome. It was incredible really. He's great.

[@petercallaway3420]

The best drum solo I ever heard Kobie Watkins play live. Chicago cat all the way. Bar setting and a drummer to be emulated!

[@sameelatif]

2seconds into the drum solo i had to scroll down to find this comment hahaha bless

[@800pieds]

Some guys have everything. Pitch, rythm, and a voice ring that just blows you away. Boy, those low notes... Glad this one had the good idea to sing jazz.

[@user-wx5ol2bm1e]

I'm amazed! Thanks to Taehyung for recommending such a great musician! It's scary to think that I could pass by such a performer in my life and never hear him!

[@nataliedejagermusic6923]

I could watch this over and over. Wow. Amazing band, incredible vocals, ridiculous drum solo.

[@mikotondria]

+Natalie de Jager Music *I do watch this over and over. I stream it as I drive along, singing my feet off. Best song/performance ever.

[@user-ry7xh7fj5v]

I THINK I JUST DIED AND WENT TO HEAVEN

[@samueljunus4639]

welcome to heaven...

[@bcafoe]

Took the words right out of my mouth! Goose bumps here.. Wow

[@chrisdunbar1891]

just discovered him and heaven is right.

[@susiemichell447]

Me too

[@nebojsamatic1984]

yepp. Heaven.

[@guetem1]

ooof, one of the best jazz ballads I have heard in this century

[@tamarakirson3542]

We saw him recently with DeeDee Bridgewater. The two of them together was extraordinary musical chemistry! On his own, this man has always captivated me, and thankfully, he and Ms. Bridgewater did solos : )

[@michaelrob]

Unbelievable. i mean the man is amazing.

[@DivaRoots]

Between his scat solo and the drummers solo, this song TOTALLY sends me. Kurt is magnificent!! An mp3 of this would be completely fabulous!!

[@kobiewatkins4364]

Thank You!!!

[@turtleforte]

Genius, what incredible range, mastering the art of skat. Wow, he's glorious❤ whoever he frightens is not open to real music and the immeasurable beauty of his vocals.

[@everdayjoyful]

Wow. Holy talent he has!

[@hottubz1965]

+김나연 Are you speaking Yoda-ese? :)

[@omko73]

+hottubz1965 lol

[@Bgrenimann]

He plays with upper structurers like a sax player! amazing!!

[@MrMikkyn]

I've never seen an orchestra have so much fun before!

[@douglasblack5061]

Reinvention of jazz skatting with a versatile twist. Impeccable.

[@douglasblack5061]

Check him out at Newport in 2001! Clean.

[@prod.jayblack687]

This perfomance was perfect

[@attoruc]

I was at this concert. Thanks for putting up this song. Such a great interpretation.

[@Ettenyl56jioni]

Got to congratulate Mr. Kurt Elling for furthering the style that the great Ella Fitzgerald invented, known as Scat, and bringing it to yet another level. Bravo!

[@cuthbertgeorge]

My jaw currently resides on the floor. will remain there. i am humbled. consummate showman enjoying each moment sung.

[@aksimtaioreunin5385]

One of the best songs in jazz..

[@Hstls7]

Best version I ever heard can't stop listening to it

[@Pilsen.Oficial]

Be my mom please

[@jannmikoingelrabagogamingc6012]

After 2 years of searching this performance again after forgetting it...it felt God sent to me that I have finally discovered it again! 😭💖

[@jannmikoingelrabagogamingc6012]

Can we take a moment to appreciate the chops this drummer had, really?

[@blitz4sure]

This Mo Fo is friggin' AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!! Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaah! And the drummer gave it all he had and a little more!

[@kobiewatkins4364]

Thanks!!!

[@ronaldbrumwell8414]

Scatting: Speaking tongues with the gods of Jazz!

[@joaoomar]

He´s a musician, not only a singer!!! Wonderful!!

[@kamahama2985]

JEEEEZZZZZZZZZZZ thats the most freakin' performance I've ever seen!!!! both solos were just amazing!!! loved his scat!!! what a great proposal melodic and rithmic proposal! A new way of understanding!! just great!

[@HambaTT]

I get tingles every time I watch this, wish it where available on DVD :(

[@kafunky]

Love love love Kurt Elling! I am honored to be living in the city that is hosting him at the Jazz Festival :) Only mad love and respect for this genius!!

[@michaelgerle3804]

Oh my God- I love this version. Kurt Elling= the best male singer alive!

[@bitofingeralastname6794]

Michael Gerle Stunningly, and embarrassingly, clueless.

[@michaelgerle3804]

Bitofinger Alastname Bitofinger - who are you to judge me? I don´t want to know what kind of music you like. Fuck you:-)

[@bitofingeralastname6794]

heheheh

[@PjBeatzrd]

+Bitofinger Alastname PREACH

[@pepegreenos4359]

+Michael Gerle im on your side

[@patrickscutella836]

Love the freedom he sings with.

[@virginiahippisleycox7405]

He's having fun and enjoying every moment. Compare his freedom and fun to the somewhat serious faces of the orchestra doing their wonderful work....I think they themselves are also amazed at the improvisation. Admiration it's called.

[@loopyman76]

WOW! I LOVE this guy. Kurt is SICK with the vocals. Just SICK! The music is on point, too! Now THIS is what you call REAL music.

[@GilBelford]

I think Kurt is an amazing singer that does something different and has an amazing sense of rhythm.

[@Nocturnal11Guy]

I'm wondering why anyone would hit the dislike button on this rendition? Great job Kurt on this song. You did justice to it. My opinion

[@kipwhite6532]

His presence in concert is electrifying.

[@angelavl5916]

Se imaginan canciones con un estilo asi y el de Sammy Davis en su mixtape. Taehyung en verdad tiene tan buen gusto.

[@lc-78]

I'm sure there will be songs in Tae's mixtape with this style

[@calypsoulz]

His sound is really defined I’m definitely not surprised tae likes this

[@nicolewn3522]

Yes 🥺🤔

[@imaflowerlostinkooksthighs6333]

@@calypsoulz mee too

[@Dan_Dropper]

Who's Tae? Tae Kwon Do?

[@michellehilliard2349]

I always hold my breath when it comes to the drummer solo

[@mantra3930]

Same same sameeee

[@ronaldnapier2736]

I recently heard Renee Fleming praise Kurt's jazz singing when an interviewer asked her to name some of the singers of today that she greatly admires. . After listening to this piece, I can easily understand why she did. Renee began her early singing career in jazz and later mixed her repertoire with classical and opera. She is known world-wide as one of the finest classically-trained singers of our time. Kurt is an amazing choice.

[@Cheese_Meister]

That drum solo gets me every time.

[@jelleepit]

Audio chocolate.

[@lavoxii]

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 A magic day he passed my way And while we spoke 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 The greatest thing you'll ever learn Is just to love and be loved in return

[@mrashershow]

Ive probably watched this about 1000000000000000 times

[@kamelattit8110]

I discovered Kurt Elling 20 years ago. I have 3 albums from him and i still love this voice and this version

[@peterjohntitus]

LOL I love the lady's facial expression when Kurt Elling scats lol (4:05)

[@Kenyaprince]

I was wondering if anyone else caught that too.

[@bovelakeyukon]

His octave range is nothing less than a Miracle! WOW!!!

[@ssr7736]

I love how his scat solo is reminiscent of a trumpet, which is what the great Ella did in her solos, evoke another music instrument. I've always been a big fan of his, he came to my college, UNT and mentored us.

[@wecanthandletruths]

Just the best rendition of this song I have ever heard.

[@jonijane59]

I second that: Just about the best rendition of that song EVER!

[@CIancyy]

FANTASTIC. This is the most original, innovative version of this I've ever heard. Unreal voice on him!

[@yihunediepeveen3419]

This really leaves you speechless, filled with intense joy because of the skills and passion displayed here

[@ahmedajabi2654]

That drum solo is just perfect!!!

[@Britparsley]

I loooooooove his rendition of 'Nature Boy'

[@jesuistonpereluke]

How can you decide to pull the "unlike" button ? seriously ! even if it's not your type of music HOW could anybody truely dislike it ???? (gonna see him live in 10 days hiiiiiiiiiiiii)

[@RobynGant]

Dayum! Wow! Excellent Nature boy rendition! Go Kurt!

[@veresquivel]

His voice is perfect!

[@thebaldchemist]

Brilliant just brilliant.

[@Greatpercy]

I caught Kurt's Gig at The Queen Elizabeth Hall on the 18th Nov' in London,he just blew us all away with his awesome talent.I've been lucky to see him a few times and where the venue permits, he is always a pleasure to meet after the show to discuss music.He is in short a "Gentleman".Thanks Kurt, you are the man.

[@toolboxevolution7456]

At the Herbst (unknown years ago), he evolved into buddhist growl chanting for a LONG TIME! I forget what song he used to get us out there, but What's creepy is I knew he was going to do it. I've seen him in concert several times, but that was a truly bizarre experience. He did it exceedingly well though then brought us back. It was crazy

[@BarbYoungPPCStrategies]

So excited to see him tomorrow night in Cambridge. Will be the third time to see him live.

[@tinafaltermeier9303]

Wow! What an amazing singer!! His music goes directly to the bones!

[@theSOUNDofYAZIK]

I am highly impressed with his vocal skills, notes he chooses! Awesome singer, showman! I've heard he runs workshops around Europe - he needs to come to Poland again!

[@savedbychrist23]

You haven't lived until you've heard this voice in person!

[@felecialewis5193]

2016 and Kurt still puts it down.

[@janovewaldner1]

Wao, I find his voice very steady and firm.

[@makininiliwaambieni37]

Love scatting...so creative!!!

[@jacquelinepatriciodaluz8830]

Thank you Kurt 💋

[@ladyploveroflife5014]

been following gin since 2000. he skats marvelously! I wish he had more songs skatting. However, it doesn't make him. He's great regardless.