Nat King Cole was one of the most iconic and beloved musicians in American history, a true master of his craft whose music continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world. From his early days as a jazz pianist to his later career as a vocalist and entertainer, Nat King Cole left an indelible mark on the music industry and on American culture as a whole. But beyond his talent and his accomplishments, Nat King Cole was also a trailblazer, breaking down barriers for black entertainers and paving the way for future generations of musicians and artists. In this report, we will explore the life, career, and legacy of Nat King Cole, delving into the personal and professional triumphs and challenges that shaped his incredible journey.
Nat King Cole Personal Life
Nat King Cole, born Nathaniel Adams Coles on March 17, 1919, was an American singer, pianist, and actor. He is best known for his smooth baritone voice and his numerous hit songs, such as “Unforgettable,” “Mona Lisa,” and “Nature Boy.” Cole first gained fame as a jazz pianist, leading the Nat King Cole Trio, before transitioning to a successful solo career as a singer.
In his personal life, Nat King Cole was married twice. His first marriage was to Nadine Robinson in 1937, but the couple divorced in 1948. Cole’s second marriage was to Maria Hawkins Ellington in 1948, and they remained together until his death in 1965. Maria was a singer who had worked with Duke Ellington’s orchestra but was not related to him. Nat and Maria had five children: Natalie, Carole (adopted daughter of Maria’s sister), Nat Kelly, Casey, and Timolin.
Throughout his career, Cole faced significant racial discrimination. Despite his success, he and his family were often subjected to racism, especially when they moved to an all-white neighborhood in Los Angeles. Cole used his fame to advocate for civil rights and broke barriers as the first African-American to host a national television variety show, “The Nat King Cole Show,” which aired from 1956 to 1957.
Nat King Cole was a heavy smoker, which ultimately led to his battle with lung cancer. He passed away on February 15, 1965, at the age of 45. Despite his untimely death, Cole’s influence on the music industry is still felt today, and his recordings continue to be celebrated and enjoyed by fans around the world.
Nat King Cole Awards
1990 – Alabama Jazz Hall of Fame
1990 – Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award
1992 – Songwriters Hall of Fame
1994 – United States Postage Stamp
1997 – Downbeat Jazz Hall of Fame
2000 – Rock and Roll Hall of Fame
2007 – Hit Parade Hall of Fame
2013 – Latin Songwriters Hall of Fame
2020 – National Rhythm & Blues Hall of Fame
Quotes About Nat King Cole
“Nat Cole was one of the greatest jazz pianists and singers of our time, a true master of his craft.” – Quincy Jones
“He was just the ultimate musician, the ultimate gentleman. He could do anything, and he did it with such grace and style.” – Tony Bennett
“Nat King Cole was a trailblazer in so many ways. He broke down barriers and paved the way for generations of Black musicians to come.” – Diana Krall
“Nat Cole was a consummate musician, but he was also a great entertainer. He knew how to connect with an audience and make them feel something special.” – Harry Connick Jr.
“Nat King Cole had a voice like velvet, and he sang with such emotion and sincerity. He was a true icon.” – Norah Jones
“Nat King Cole was one of the most elegant and sophisticated performers of his time. He made everything look easy, but that was just his natural talent shining through.” – Jamie Cullum
“Nat King Cole was a genius. He had the ability to make you feel something every time he opened his mouth.” – Ray Charles
“Nat King Cole’s music is timeless. It’s as relevant today as it was when he first recorded it.” – Michael Bublé
“Nat King Cole had a voice that was pure magic. He could take a simple song and turn it into something truly extraordinary.” – Celine Dion
“Nat King Cole was not only a great musician, but he was also a great humanitarian. He used his fame and his platform to advocate for civil rights and social justice.” – Herbie Hancock
Nat King Cole and the Golden Age of Television: How His Show Changed the Music Industry Forever
In the 1950s, television was a new and exciting medium that captivated American audiences. It was a time of great change in American culture, and television played a significant role in shaping the way people saw the world. Nat King Cole’s iconic television show was a groundbreaking achievement that set a new standard for music programming on television and broke down barriers for black entertainers.
In the early days of television, programming was limited to news and variety shows, with little focus on music and entertainment. But Nat King Cole saw the potential of television to reach new audiences and showcase his music to a wider audience. His television show, “The Nat King Cole Show,” premiered in 1956 and quickly became a cultural phenomenon.
The show was a showcase for Cole’s immense talent and his unique style of music, which blended elements of jazz, pop, and R&B. But it was also a groundbreaking achievement in television history, featuring live music performances, multi-camera setups, and on-screen graphics that were cutting-edge for their time. The show set a new standard for musical programming on television and helped pave the way for future generations of musicians and performers.
Perhaps even more importantly, Nat King Cole’s television show broke down barriers for black entertainers on television. At a time when racial segregation was still the norm in many parts of the country, Cole’s show was a powerful statement of inclusion and diversity. It helped change the way people saw black entertainers and paved the way for future generations of black performers to find success in the music industry.
The legacy of Nat King Cole’s television show can still be felt today, more than half a century after its debut. His technical innovations and his commitment to diversity and inclusion continue to inspire musicians and entertainers around the world. The show was a true masterpiece of music and television, and it set a new standard for excellence that still resonates today.
In conclusion, Nat King Cole’s television show was a game-changer for the music industry and American culture. It broke down barriers for black entertainers on television and set a new standard for musical programming. Cole’s immense talent and his commitment to diversity and inclusion continue to inspire musicians and performers around the world, reminding us of the power of music and the transformative impact of great art.
Nat King Cole’s Top 10 Hits: A Look Back at His Most Iconic Songs
Nat King Cole is a legend of American music, known for his soulful voice and timeless songs. Over the course of his career, he recorded countless hits that continue to resonate with audiences today. In this article, we’ll take a look back at his top 10 hits and explore the legacy of his most iconic songs.
- Unforgettable
“Unforgettable” is perhaps Nat King Cole’s most famous song, with a melody and lyrics that have become a standard of popular music. Originally written by Irving Gordon in 1951, the song was recorded by Cole in 1956 and became an instant classic. Its timeless appeal has ensured that it continues to be a popular choice for weddings and romantic occasions. - Mona Lisa
“Mona Lisa” is another one of Nat King Cole’s most famous songs, a haunting ballad that tells the story of the famous painting by Leonardo da Vinci. Originally recorded in 1950, the song was a hit and remains a classic of American popular music. - L-O-V-E
“L-O-V-E” is an upbeat and catchy song that captures the feeling of falling in love. Released in 1964, the song has become a pop culture phenomenon, appearing in countless movies, TV shows, and commercials. - Route 66
“Route 66” is a classic of the American road trip, a song that captures the feeling of adventure and possibility that comes with driving across the country. Originally recorded in 1946, the song has become a cultural icon, inspiring countless travelers to hit the open road. - Nature Boy
“Nature Boy” is a song that captures the spirit of the countercultural movements of the 1960s. Originally recorded in 1948, the song was written by Eden Ahbez and tells the story of a free-spirited wanderer who lives in harmony with nature. - The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire)
“The Christmas Song” is a holiday classic that has become a staple of Christmas music playlists. Originally recorded in 1946, the song captures the warm and cozy feeling of the holiday season, with its lyrics about chestnuts roasting on an open fire and Jack Frost nipping at your nose. - When I Fall in Love
“When I Fall in Love” is a romantic ballad that captures the feeling of falling in love. Originally recorded in 1956, the song has become a timeless classic, covered by countless artists over the years. - Smile”
“Smile” is a song that encourages us to find hope and happiness even in difficult times. Originally written by Charlie Chaplin, the song was recorded by Nat King Cole in 1954 and has become a source of comfort and inspiration to many. - Stardust
“Stardust” is a dreamy and ethereal song that captures the feeling of nostalgia. Originally written in 1927, the song has been covered by countless artists over the years, but Nat King Cole’s version remains one of the most beloved. - Too Young
“Too Young” is a song about the joys and sorrows of youth, with its lyrics about falling in love too early and having to say goodbye too soon. Originally recorded in 1951, the song remains a classic of American popular music.
Nat King Cole’s top 10 hits continue to captivate and inspire audiences today. Whether you’re in the mood for a romantic ballad or an upbeat tune, there’s a Nat King Cole song for every occasion. As we listen to these
The Perfect Pair: How the Natalie Cole and Nat King Cole Duet on ‘Unforgettable’ Was a Technical Triumph
Natalie Cole and her father, Nat King Cole, are two of the most iconic musicians in American history. Their collaboration on “Unforgettable” is a testament to their immense talent and the technical mastery they brought to their music. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the technical brilliance of their duet and its lasting impact on music.
Nat King Cole was one of the most influential vocalists of the 20th century, with a smooth, velvety voice that captured the essence of classic American jazz and pop. He was known for his impeccable phrasing, his breath control, and his ability to convey emotion through his singing.
Natalie Cole, on the other hand, was a trailblazing musician in her own right, known for her rich, soulful voice and her mastery of harmony and improvisation. Her music drew from a wide range of influences, including jazz, R&B, and pop, and her technical skills were unmatched.
The collaboration between Natalie and Nat King Cole on “Unforgettable” was a technical triumph, blending their unique voices into a seamless duet that continues to captivate audiences today. The song was recorded in 1991, more than 25 years after Nat King Cole’s death, using advanced technology to combine his original vocals with Natalie’s performance.
The challenges involved in creating the duet were significant, including matching the tempo and pitch of Nat King Cole’s original recording and synchronizing his vocals with Natalie’s performance. But the result was a stunning masterpiece of musical excellence, a true testament to the mastery of both artists.
The duet between Natalie and Nat King Cole on “Unforgettable” had a profound influence on music that was felt far beyond their generation. The technical and musical excellence of their collaboration inspired many other musicians to explore the possibilities of vocal duets. Frank Sinatra was one of the first to follow in their footsteps with his duet albums “Duets I” and “Duets II.” But he was not alone. Other legendary musicians, including Ray Charles, Tony Bennett, Bob Marley, Elton John, Kenny G, Barbra Streisand, and Dionne Warwick, were all inspired by the Natalie and Nat King Cole duet and went on to record their own iconic duet albums. The impact of their influence can still be heard in the music of today and is a testament to the enduring legacy of their technical brilliance and musical excellence.
The duet between Natalie and Nat King Cole on “Unforgettable” was a technical triumph that continues to inspire and captivate audiences today. Their unique voices and immense talent came together to create a masterpiece of music that transcends time and generations. Their legacy continues to inspire musicians and music lovers around the world, reminding us of the enduring power of music and the technical excellence it can achieve.
Nat King Cole and the Civil Rights Movement: How His Music Made a Difference
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Nat King Cole was not only one of the greatest musicians of his time, but he was also an icon of the Civil Rights Movement. With his soulful voice and stirring lyrics, he challenged racial stereotypes and prejudices, paving the way for future generations to fight for social justice and equality.
In the 1950s and 1960s, the Civil Rights Movement was in full swing. Black Americans were fighting for their right to vote, to attend the same schools as white Americans, and to be treated with the same respect and dignity as their white counterparts. Music played an important role in the movement, with artists using their platform to raise awareness and inspire change.
Nat King Cole was no exception. He used his music and his public image to challenge the racial barriers that existed in American society. As an African American artist in a predominantly white industry, he faced numerous challenges and obstacles. Despite this, he remained true to his vision and used his music to speak out against discrimination.
One of the most powerful examples of this was his song “We Are Americans Too”, which he recorded in 1956. The song was a response to the bombing of a church in Birmingham, Alabama, which killed four young Black girls. In the song, Nat King Cole sings about the tragedy and the need for change, saying, “Alabama’s got me so upset / Tennessee made me lose my rest / And everybody knows about Mississippi goddam.”
The song was controversial at the time, with many radio stations refusing to play it. But it became a rallying cry for the Civil Rights Movement, and it remains a powerful reminder of the struggles faced by Black Americans in the fight for racial justice.
Nat King Cole’s personal experiences with discrimination also informed his music. He was denied entry to hotels and restaurants because of his race, and he was forced to stay in separate accommodations from his white band members. Despite this, he remained committed to his music and his message, never backing down in the face of adversity.
Today, Nat King Cole’s legacy lives on. His music continues to inspire new generations of artists and activists, and his message of love, equality, and social justice is as relevant as ever. As we continue to fight for racial justice and equality, we can look to Nat King Cole as an inspiration and a guide.
Nat King Cole’s contributions to the Civil Rights Movement cannot be overstated. His music and his message played a crucial role in the fight for racial justice, challenging stereotypes and prejudices and inspiring change. As we continue to confront the challenges of our time, we can look to Nat King Cole as a shining example of what it means to be a true artist and a true advocate for social justice.
From Tony Bennett to Barbra Streisand: The Musicians Inspired by Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole was a trailblazing musician who left an indelible mark on the music industry and American culture. From his smooth, velvety voice to his unique style of music that blended elements of jazz, pop, and R&B, Nat King Cole’s influence can be heard in the music of countless musicians who followed in his footsteps. In this blog post, we will explore the legacy of Nat King Cole and the musicians who were inspired by his talent and creativity, from Tony Bennett to Barbra Streisand and beyond.
One musician who was deeply inspired by Nat King Cole was Johnny Mathis. Growing up, Mathis listened to Cole as his father’s favorite singer in the 1940s, later meeting and becoming friends with him after moving to Beverly Hills in 1958. “Nat King Cole was the God of popular music in our house,” Mathis says with a laugh. “That is the way that I fell in love with his music, is through his piano playing, then of course, I occasionally listened to him singing — that wasn’t too bad either.”
Tony Bennett was another musician who was inspired by Nat King Cole’s talent and style. In an interview with NPR, Bennett discussed how he was influenced by Cole’s music and how it helped shape his own style. “He was my mentor, my idol,” Bennett said. “I tried to emulate him as much as I could.” Bennett and Cole even collaborated on a few songs, including “Can’t We Be Friends” and “The Greatest Inventor of Them All.”
Barbra Streisand was also a fan of Nat King Cole’s music, and his influence can be heard in many of her recordings. Streisand once said in an interview, “Nat King Cole was the ultimate musician-singer. He could play anything and sing anything, and he always sounded great.” Streisand’s admiration for Cole was evident in her 1978 album “Songbird,” which featured a cover of Cole’s hit song “When I Fall in Love.”
Other musicians who were inspired by Nat King Cole include Diana Krall, Michael Bublé, and Gregory Porter. Their music reflects Cole’s influence, with smooth jazz arrangements, soulful vocals, and a blend of musical genres that echoes Cole’s own unique style.
Nat King Cole’s legacy lives on in the music of these and many other musicians who were inspired by his talent, creativity, and passion for music. His influence can be heard in countless recordings and live performances, and his impact on the music industry and American culture as a whole continues to be felt to this day.
The Heartbreak of Nat King Cole’s Battle with Cancer
Nat King Cole was one of the most beloved musicians of the 20th century, known for his smooth, velvety voice and his unique style of music that blended elements of jazz, pop, and R&B. But behind the scenes, he was battling a devastating illness that would ultimately take his life. Nat King Cole’s battle with cancer was a heartbreak for his fans and loved ones, and it left a lasting impact on the music industry and American culture.
Cole was diagnosed with lung cancer in 1964, at the height of his fame and success. The diagnosis was a shock to his fans and loved ones, who had always known him as a picture of health and vitality. But as Cole began his battle with cancer, it quickly became clear that this was a fight he would not win.
Despite his illness, Cole continued to perform and record music, driven by his immense passion and dedication to his craft. But his battle with cancer took a toll on his personal life as well, straining his relationships with his family and friends and forcing him to confront his own mortality in a way that few people ever have to.
The heartbreak of Nat King Cole’s battle with cancer was felt by his fans and loved ones around the world. His music, which had always been a source of comfort and inspiration to so many, now took on a new meaning, as people listened to his songs with a sense of sadness and loss.
But even in the midst of his illness, Nat King Cole remained an inspiration to others. His bravery and determination in the face of cancer inspired others to fight their own battles with illness and to cherish the time they had with their loved ones.
Today, Nat King Cole’s legacy lives on, inspiring and captivating audiences around the world. His music continues to touch the hearts and souls of people everywhere, reminding us of the power of great art to connect us to something greater than ourselves.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nat King Cole
