He got his start in music by performing in local clubs in Chicago in the 1930s. In 1943, he formed the Nat King Cole Trio, which became one of the most popular and successful jazz groups of the 1940s. Cole’s smooth, velvety voice and distinctive piano playing made him a popular crossover artist, with hits such as “Unforgettable” and “Mona Lisa” becoming popular with both jazz and pop audiences. He continued to record and perform until his death in 1965.
Nat King Cole shares a birthday with these jazz musicians:
- Abraham Burton
- Adam Troy
- Andrew Gavin Webber
- Bob Leto
- Chris Flaherty
- Daniel Levin
- Devin S. Norris
- Elis Regina
- Elisa Caleb
- Eric Watson
- Glennis Houston
- Haavisto
- Jared Wilson
- Jason Keene
- Jerry Senfluk
- Jessica Williams
- John Curtright
- Linley Hamilton
- Lovie Lee
- Maria Viana
- Nicole Henry
- Omar Kamal
- Pat Sprakes
- Paul Horn
- Paula Shocron
- Pepe Gasparini
- Ramon Climent
- Robert Crozier
- Ron Oswanski
- Roy McGrath
- Ruben Caban
- William Meek