Nat King Cole Biography

Short Summary

Nat King Cole was an American jazz pianist and vocalist whose smooth baritone voice and elegant style made him one of the most popular and influential musicians of the 20th century. Known for hits like "Unforgettable" and "Mona Lisa," his contributions to music transcended genres, paving the way for future African American artists. Beyond his music career, he made significant strides in breaking racial barriers in the entertainment industry.

Early Life & Education

Nathaniel Adams Coles was born on March 17, 1919, in Montgomery, Alabama. His family moved to Chicago, Illinois, during his early childhood, where his father, Edward Coles, became a Baptist minister. Exposed to the church's gospel music and his mother Perlina's piano lessons, he developed a passion for music early on. Dropping out of high school to pursue a music career, he adopted the stage name Nat King Cole, a nod to his love for the nursery rhyme about Old King Cole. His early influences included jazz legends like Earl Hines and Louis Armstrong.

Career Highlights

Cole's career began to take off in the late 1930s as the leader of the Nat King Cole Trio. His smooth, velvety voice and knack for blending jazz with popular music captivated audiences. The 1940s and 1950s saw him achieve massive success with hits like "The Christmas Song" and "Nature Boy." In 1956, he broke new ground with "The Nat King Cole Show," becoming the first African American to host a national television variety show. His career continued to flourish until his untimely death in 1965.

Major Achievements

First African American to host a national television show, "The Nat King Cole Show," in 1956.
Winner of the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 1990, recognizing his lasting impact on music.
Inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000 as an early influence.
Sold over 50 million records worldwide, with hits like "Mona Lisa" and "Unforgettable."

Famous Quotes

"I may be helping to bring harmony between people through my music."
"I am an American citizen, first class."

Interesting Facts

Nat King Cole learned to play the organ at the age of four.
He was a passionate baseball fan and played semi-professionally.
He recorded over 100 songs that became hits on the pop charts.
His daughter Natalie Cole became a successful singer, continuing his musical legacy.
Cole was an avid smoker, which contributed to his early death from lung cancer.

Legacy / Influence

Nat King Cole's legacy is profound, both musically and culturally. His pioneering efforts in television and music opened doors for African American artists in mainstream media. His smooth vocal style and ability to transcend different musical genres have influenced countless artists across generations. His timeless recordings continue to resonate with audiences, ensuring his place as a seminal figure in American music history.