Nat King Cole

Nat King Cole was born in 1919 in Alabama. He became one of the most loved singers in America. Cole had a warm, gentle voice that people loved to listen to. He also played the piano beautifully. He sang jazz and pop music.

His Music

Cole started out as a jazz piano player in small clubs. Later, he became famous for songs like Unforgettable, Mona Lisa, and The Christmas Song. His voice was soft and easy to understand. He recorded hundreds of songs. Many of his songs are still played today, especially at Christmas time.

A photograph of singer Nat King Cole at a New York theater.
A photograph of singer Nat King Cole at a New York theater. (The Library of Congress / Wikimedia Commons)

His Life

Cole grew up in Chicago and learned music from his mother. He moved to California to start his music career. He became the first African American person to have his own TV show in 1956. At that time, many places in America were not fair to Black people. He worked hard to break down those walls. He died in 1965.

Fun Facts

  • His nickname King came from a song about a jolly old soul named King Cole.
  • His daughter Natalie Cole was also a famous singer.
  • Years later, Natalie made a duet song with her father using his old recording.

Did You Know?

Nat King Cole sold more than 50 million records during his career.