By: Jaclyn Breeze
Nat King Cole was born in 1919 and grew up in Chicago. His mother realized when he was very young that he was musically inclined and began giving him piano lessons. By age 23 he was an accomplished pianist, and by the time he was a teenager he was performing in jazz clubs as a pianist. In the 30s, he formed his own group named the King Cole Trio. They gained popularity for blending jazz with elements of swing and pop.
He was also a beloved vocalist, and signed with Capitol Records in the 50s and released multiple hit songs. His style appealed to a wide audience, and he became one of the first African American artists to have significant commercial success. He hosted a radio show called King Cole Trio time, which was the first radio show hosted by a black man. He also had a TV show called The Nat King Cole Show, and he was also featured in a few movies. He passed away in 1965 from illness.
He is credited with opening the doors for future generations of African American musicians. His awards include GRAMMYS, Golden Globes, a Lifetime Achievement Award from the National Academy of Recordings Arts and Sciences, and has been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. His music has remained popular since his death, even topping the charts again in 1991.
Listen to some of his work here:
It’s Only a Paper Moon & Sweet Lorraine
King Cole For Kids
Nat King Cole made a whole album of music just for kids!
It can be streamed on Apple Music or Spotify
Here is a blog all about the album!