Nat King Cole – Biography
Nat King Cole was born in 1919 in Montgomery, Alabama. He dropped out of high school to pursue a career in music, moving to Los Angeles and playing piano in night clubs before forming his own band called The King Cole Trio. Once audiences found out that Cole was an even better singer than piano player, the Trio’s popularity really took off: they were the only all-black group signed to Capitol Records, while also being the best-selling act of the entire decade.
Cole brought an easy listening sophistication to jazz and pop music, and he released many famous singles and standards throughout his career. As one of the greatest and most recognizable singers of the 20th century, his music has retained its timeless sense of nostalgia. Keep reading below for Nat King Cole music reviews and accolades.
Discography
- The King Cole Trio (1944) A-
- King Cole at the Piano (1950) A-
- Penthouse Serenade (1952) B+
- Unforgettable (1952) B+
- Nat King Cole Sings for Two in Love (1953) A-
Accolades
- Colin’s Review Music Hall of Fame
- 1940s Greatest Albums – #10
- 1940s Best Songs – #17
- 1940s Artists of the Decade – #7