42 Facts About Natalie Cole

Early Life and Musical Background

Natalie Cole was born on February 6, 1950, in Los Angeles, California. She was the daughter of the legendary Nat King Cole and Maria Hawkins Ellington. With such a renowned musical lineage, it was no surprise that Natalie developed a deep love for music from a young age.

The Name “Natalie”

Natalie Cole was named after her father’s hit song, “Natalie,” which was released in It was a tribute to her and reflected the immense pride Nat King Cole had for his daughter.

Musical Influences

Growing up in a musical household, Natalie was exposed to a wide range of musical genres and influences. She was particularly inspired by Aretha Franklin, Billie Holiday, and Dinah Washington, whose music helped shape her own unique style.

Education and Career Beginnings

Natalie attended the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she pursued a major in Child Psychology. Although her passion for music was undeniable, she initially wanted to explore a career in psychology. However, fate had other plans for her.

Natalie’s First Album

In 1975, Natalie released her debut album, “Inseparable,” which gained instant recognition and success. The album included her first major hit, “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love),” which won her a Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance.

Grammy Awards and Achievements

Natalie Cole was the proud recipient of a total of nine Grammy Awards throughout her illustrious career. Her awards encompassed various categories, including Best New Artist, Best R&B Performance, and Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album.

Unforgettable Duet with Nat King Cole

In a magical moment of music history, Natalie Cole recorded a virtual duet of the song “Unforgettable” with her late father, Nat King Cole. The iconic duet won three Grammy Awards, including Album of the Year and Record of the Year.

Acting Career

Besides her musical endeavors, Natalie Cole also ventured into acting. She appeared in popular TV shows such as “Grey’s Anatomy” and “Touched by an Angel.” Her talent and versatility shone through in every role she undertook.

Battle with Drug Addiction

Natalie Cole openly spoke about her struggles with drug addiction, which she battled for many years. She became an advocate for addiction recovery and dedicated herself to helping others overcome similar challenges.

Philanthropic Work

Natalie was actively involved in various philanthropic efforts, including organizations focused on AIDS awareness and education. She used her platform and resources to make a positive impact on the world.

A Talented Songwriter

In addition to her exceptional vocal abilities, Natalie Cole was also a talented songwriter. She co-wrote several of her hit songs, infusing them with her personal experiences and emotions.

Multilingual Skills

Natalie had a knack for languages and could speak multiple languages fluently, including French and Spanish. This linguistic talent allowed her to connect with audiences worldwide.

A Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

In 1979, Natalie Cole received a well-deserved star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, honoring her immense contributions to the music industry.

Her Autobiography

In 2000, Natalie released her autobiography, “Angel on My Shoulder,” where she shared her journey, triumphs, and struggles with honesty and vulnerability.

Collaboration with Andrea Bocelli

Natalie teamed up with the renowned Italian tenor, Andrea Bocelli, for a beautiful rendition of the classic song “The Prayer.” Their impeccable vocal harmonies enchanted audiences worldwide.

Inspirational Performances

Natalie Cole had a powerful stage presence and captivated audiences with her soulful performances. Her ability to convey emotion through her voice was truly awe-inspiring.

Rhythm and Blues Hall of Fame

In 2017, Natalie Cole was posthumously inducted into the Rhythm and Blues Music Hall of Fame, cementing her legacy in the genre she loved.

Musical Collaborations

Natalie collaborated with numerous legendary artists during her career, including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, and Ray Charles. These collaborations showcased her versatility as an artist.

Honoring Her Father’s Legacy

Natalie released an album titled “Still Unforgettable” in 2008 as a tribute to her father, Nat King Cole. The album featured reimagined versions of her father’s songs and received critical acclaim.

Romantic Relationships

Natalie Cole had several high-profile romantic relationships throughout her life. She was married three times and had one son named Robert Adam Yancy.

The Natalie Cole Collection

Natalie’s immense success and impact on the music industry led to the release of “The Natalie Cole Collection,” a compilation album that showcased her iconic hits and celebrated her incredible career.

Billboard Chart Success

Natalie had multiple chart-topping hits throughout her career, including “Jump Start,” “Pink Cadillac,” and “Miss You Like Crazy.” Her songs consistently dominated the Billboard charts.

Stellar Discography

Natalie Cole released a total of 21 studio albums, each showcasing her versatility and evolution as an artist. Her discography boasts a wide range of musical styles, from R&B to jazz and pop.

A Voice of Resilience

Natalie Cole faced numerous personal and professional challenges throughout her life. However, she always bounced back with resilience and continued to create music that touched the hearts of millions.

Accolades and Recognitions

In addition to multiple Grammy Awards, Natalie Cole received numerous other accolades, including American Music Awards, NAACP Image Awards, and a Soul Train Music Award.

International Success

Natalie’s talent transcended borders, and she achieved remarkable success internationally. Her music touched the souls of people around the world, solidifying her status as a global music icon.

Collaborating with Modern Artists

As her career progressed, Natalie Cole collaborated with contemporary artists such as Seal and Diana Krall, showcasing her ability to adapt and evolve with the ever-changing music landscape.

A Pioneer for African-American Artists

Natalie Cole broke down barriers for African-American artists in the music industry. She paved the way for future generations and inspired countless musicians with her remarkable talent and perseverance.

International Philanthropic Efforts

Beyond local charities, Natalie Cole also supported various international humanitarian causes. She believed in using her influence to uplift communities and make a difference on a global scale.

A Legacy of Timeless Music

Natalie’s music continues to resonate with audiences, transcending generations. Her timeless hits serve as a testament to her incredible artistry and musical brilliance.

Posthumous Grammy Win

In 2016, Natalie Cole won a posthumous Grammy Award for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album for her album “Natalie Cole En Español.” The award paid tribute to her exceptional talent and enduring legacy.

Cultural Impact

Natalie Cole’s music not only entertained but also impacted cultural conversations. Her songs often addressed important social issues, leaving a lasting impact on society.

The Power of Collaboration

Natalie Cole believed in the power of collaboration and worked with a diverse range of artists across different genres. These collaborations added depth and richness to her music.

Benefit Concerts

Natalie Cole frequently participated in benefit concerts, using her voice to raise awareness and funds for various charitable causes. Her dedication to making a positive impact was unwavering.

A Voice for Social Justice

Natalie Cole used her platform to advocate for social justice and equality. She fearlessly spoke out against injustice, using her voice to uplift marginalized communities.

Grammy Hall of Fame

Several of Natalie Cole’s iconic songs, including “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)” and “Unforgettable,” have been inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame, solidifying their place in music history.

Television Appearances

In addition to her acting career, Natalie Cole made numerous guest appearances on popular television shows, such as “Law & Order: Special Victims Unit” and “RuPaul’s Drag Race.”

Embracing Different Musical Styles

Natalie Cole was known for her versatility as an artist, effortlessly transitioning between genres such as R&B, jazz, pop, and soul. She continuously pushed boundaries and explored new musical horizons.

Live Performances and Concert Tours

Natalie Cole mesmerized audiences around the world with her captivating live performances. Her concert tours showcased her incredible vocal range and magnetic stage presence.

Musical Arrangements

Natalie was actively involved in the creative process of her music, often contributing to the arrangements of her songs. She had a keen ear for detail and ensured her music sounded exactly as she envisioned.

Inspirational Mentorship

Natalie Cole served as a mentor for aspiring artists, offering guidance and support to help them navigate the complexities of the music industry. She shared her wisdom and encouraged others to pursue their dreams.

Musical Legacy

Natalie Cole’s musical legacy continues to inspire and influence artists around the world. Her voice and storytelling prowess will forever remain etched in the hearts of music lovers everywhere.

Conclusion

These 42 fascinating facts about Natalie Cole provide a glimpse into the incredible life and career of a legendary artist. From her early musical influences to her philanthropic efforts, Natalie Cole left an indelible mark on the music industry. Her immense talent, resilience, and passion for music will be remembered for generations to come.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Natalie Cole was a remarkable artist who left an indelible mark on the world of music. From her powerhouse vocals to her ability to seamlessly blend various genres, Cole showcased her extraordinary talent and versatility throughout her career. Her Grammy-winning hits, mesmerizing stage presence, and impactful collaborations with other music legends solidified her status as one of the greatest performers of her time.Despite facing numerous personal challenges, Natalie Cole never let them define her, instead using her experiences to connect with her audience on a deeper level. Through her music, she shared her vulnerabilities, triumphs, and everything in between, inspiring generations of aspiring artists to follow their dreams.Natalie Cole’s legacy extends far beyond her music. Her immense influence and contributions to the industry continue to be celebrated and remembered even after her passing. Her passion, resilience, and unparalleled talent will forever be cherished, and her contributions to the world of music will be remembered for generations to come.

FAQs

Q: When was Natalie Cole born?

A: Natalie Cole was born on February 6, 1950.

Q: What were Natalie Cole’s biggest hits?

A: Some of Natalie Cole’s biggest hits include “Unforgettable,” “This Will Be (An Everlasting Love),” and “Pink Cadillac.”

Q: Did Natalie Cole win any awards?

A: Yes, Natalie Cole won numerous awards throughout her career, including nine Grammy Awards.

Q: Did Natalie Cole come from a musical background?

A: Yes, Natalie Cole was the daughter of legendary singer Nat King Cole and grew up surrounded by music.

Q: Was Natalie Cole involved in any charitable work?

A: Yes, Natalie Cole was an active philanthropist and supporter of various charities, including those focused on kidney disease awareness.

Q: Did Natalie Cole collaborate with other artists?

A: Yes, Natalie Cole collaborated with several notable artists, including Frank Sinatra, Diana Krall, and Tony Bennett.

Q: Is Natalie Cole still active in the music industry?

A: Natalie Cole passed away on December 31, 2015, but her music and influence continue to resonate with fans worldwide.