1. A Jazz Pianist Before a Vocal Legend
Before becoming an iconic crooner, Nat King Cole was a highly respected jazz pianist. In fact, his initial success came as the leader of the Nat King Cole Trio, formed in 1937. The trio’s unique lineup—piano, bass, and guitar, with no drummer—was revolutionary at the time. Cole’s piano playing was influential, and he was admired by fellow musicians for his sophisticated and melodic style. It wasn’t until later that he became known for his smooth, velvet-like voice that captivated audiences worldwide.
2. The First African American to Host a National Television Show
Nat King Cole broke racial barriers in the entertainment industry by becoming the first African American to host a national television show. “The Nat King Cole Show” debuted on NBC in 1956, showcasing Cole’s immense talent as a singer and performer. Despite its popularity and Cole’s star power, the show struggled to secure national sponsors due to racial prejudice. Cole ended the show after a year, famously stating, “Madison Avenue is afraid of the dark.”
3. A Passionate Civil Rights Advocate
Nat King Cole used his platform to fight against racial discrimination. In 1948, he and his family faced a violent attack after moving into an all-white neighborhood in Los Angeles. This incident fueled his commitment to civil rights. He was also involved in various initiatives and donated money to support the movement, though he preferred to work behind the scenes rather than be a public face of activism.
4. A Multi-Lingual Performer
Nat King Cole’s appeal was truly global, and he recorded songs in several languages, including Spanish, Portuguese, and French. His album “Cole Español” (1958) was particularly popular in Latin America, showcasing his ability to sing fluently in Spanish. Cole’s linguistic versatility helped him reach international audiences and solidified his status as a global music icon.
5. The Inspiration for “Unforgettable”
“Unforgettable” is one of Nat King Cole’s most famous songs, and it became even more iconic when his daughter, Natalie Cole, recorded a duet with his original vocals in 1991, 26 years after his death. The technology used to create this “virtual duet” was groundbreaking at the time, and the song became a worldwide hit, earning multiple Grammy Awards. The song’s enduring legacy is a testament to Cole’s timeless appeal and the deep bond between father and daughter.
These five curiosities reveal the depth and impact of Nat King Cole’s life and career, showing that his contributions to music and culture extended far beyond his smooth vocals. His legacy as a trailblazer, advocate, and global artist continues to resonate today.
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