Some Hidden Facts About Nat King Cole

Physical Statistics

Height (Tall)	6’0″
Weight	81 kg
Profession	Singer, pianist, and television personality
Eye Color	Brown
Shoe Size (UK)	9
Hair Color	Black

Note: This table provides the physical statistics of Nat King Cole, who was an American singer, pianist, and television personality.

Unknown Facts about Nat King Cole

Nat King Cole: The Man Behind the Music

Nat King Cole is a name that has become synonymous with smooth jazz and romantic ballads. He was one of the most successful artists of his time, and his music continues to be celebrated today. But how much do you really know about the man behind the music? What were his early years like? What inspired him to pursue a career in music? In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the life and career of Nat King Cole and uncover some little-known facts about this legendary musician.

The Rise to Fame

Nat King Cole’s rise to fame was nothing short of meteoric. He started his career as a jazz pianist, playing in various nightclubs and bars, and it wasn’t long before his unique style caught the attention of record producers. His first hit, “Straighten Up and Fly Right,” was released in 1943, and it quickly became a sensation. Over the next few years, Cole released a string of hits, including “Mona Lisa” and “Unforgettable,” which cemented his status as one of the most popular and influential musicians of his time.

The Legacy of Nat King Cole

Today, Nat King Cole is remembered not only for his music but also for the significant impact he had on the music industry as a whole. He was one of the first African American artists to achieve mainstream success, paving the way for countless others who would follow in his footsteps. Cole’s smooth, sophisticated style continues to inspire musicians around the world, and his music remains as popular today as it was during his lifetime. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the legacy of Nat King Cole and explore some of the reasons why his music continues to resonate with listeners of all ages and backgrounds.

Nat King Cole: A Musical Genius

Early Life and Career

Childhood and Family

Nat King Cole was born on March 17, 1919, in Montgomery, Alabama. His parents were Reverend Edward James Cole and Perlina Adams. The family moved to Chicago when Nat was still a child. Nat’s mother was a church pianist, and she taught him how to play the piano at a young age.

Musical Talent and Education

Nat King Cole’s musical talent was apparent from a young age. He began formal piano lessons at the age of 12 and quickly developed his skills. He dropped out of high school to pursue a career in music, and by the age of 16, he was playing in jazz clubs in Chicago.

Early Career and Success

In the late 1930s, Nat King Cole formed the King Cole Trio with guitarist Oscar Moore and bassist Wesley Prince. They began performing in Los Angeles and quickly gained a following. Their first hit song, “Sweet Lorraine,” was released in 1940. The trio’s popularity continued to grow, and they became one of the most successful jazz groups of the 1940s.

Rise to Fame

The Nat King Cole Show

In 1956, Nat King Cole became the first African American to host his own television show, The Nat King Cole Show. The show was groundbreaking at the time, but it faced many challenges due to racism and segregation. Despite these obstacles, Cole continued to produce the show until 1957.

Crossover Success

Nat King Cole’s music appealed to a wide audience, and he became one of the first African American artists to achieve mainstream success. His 1951 recording of “Unforgettable” became one of his most popular songs and remains a classic to this day. Cole also had success with pop songs like “Mona Lisa” and “Nature Boy.”

Influence on Music

Nat King Cole’s smooth, melodic voice and unique style had a profound influence on music. He paved the way for future African American artists to achieve mainstream success and helped to break down racial barriers in the music industry. His music continues to inspire and influence musicians today.

Legacy and Honors

Grammy Awards

Nat King Cole won nine Grammy Awards during his career, including Best Performance by a Pop Single Artist and Best Performance by a Male Vocalist. He was also awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1990, and his recordings have been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.

Hollywood Walk of Fame

In 1960, Nat King Cole was awarded a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. He was also inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2000.

Impact on Civil Rights Movement

Nat King Cole’s success as an African American artist helped to break down racial barriers and pave the way for future generations. He used his platform to speak out against racism and segregation and helped to raise awareness for the civil rights movement.

The Nat King Cole Society

The Nat King Cole Society was established in 1989 to preserve and promote his legacy. The society actively works to promote his music and to educate future generations about his contributions to music and civil rights.

Nat King Cole Stamp

In 1994, the United States Postal Service issued a stamp honoring Nat King Cole as part of its Black Heritage series. The stamp features a portrait of Cole and the words “The Man and His Music.”

Nat King Cole’s impact on music and the civil rights movement is immeasurable. His smooth, melodic voice and unique style continue to inspire and influence musicians today. His legacy lives on through his music and the many honors and awards he received during his career.

Nat King Cole was an American singer, pianist, and songwriter who is considered one of the greatest jazz vocalists of all time. His smooth, velvety voice and impeccable phrasing made him a household name, and his music continues to captivate audiences to this day. Cole’s legacy is one of talent, perseverance, and trailblazing, and his impact on the music industry cannot be overstated.

Cole’s career spanned over three decades, during which he released countless hit songs and albums. He was the first African American to host a television show, and his success helped pave the way for other black musicians and entertainers. His music crossed racial and cultural boundaries, and his popularity reached audiences around the world.

Beyond his musical contributions, Cole was also a civil rights activist who used his platform to speak out against racism and discrimination. He faced numerous challenges throughout his career, but he never let these obstacles dampen his spirit or his love for music.

In conclusion, Nat King Cole was a trailblazing musician, a civil rights activist, and a beloved icon whose music continues to inspire and delight audiences to this day. He left an indelible mark on the music industry and paved the way for future generations of artists. His legacy is a testament to the power of perseverance, passion, and talent.