Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole Cole c. June 1947 Background information Birth name Nathaniel Adams Coles Also known as Nat Cole Born (1919-03-17)March 17, 1919 Montgomery, Alabama, U.S. Died February 15, 1965(1965-02-15) (aged 45) Santa Monica, California, U.S. Genres Vocal jazz, swing, traditional pop Occupation(s) Vocalist, pianist Instruments Piano, vocals, organ Years active 1935–1965 Labels Capitol Associated acts Natalie Cole, Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin Nathaniel Adams Coles (March 17, 1919 – February 15, 1965), known professionally as Nat King Cole, was an American singer who first came to prominence as a leading jazz pianist. He was widely noted for his soft, baritone voice, which he used to perform in big band and jazz genres. Cole was one of the first African Americans to host a television variety show, The Nat King Cole Show, and has maintained worldwide popularity since his death from lung cancer in February 1965.