39 Facts About Cole Porter

Early Life and Education

Cole Porter, a name synonymous with timeless music, had an interesting start. Let's dive into some lesser-known facts about his early years.

1. 01Born on June 9, 1891, in Peru, Indiana, Cole Porter was the only child of a wealthy family.
2. 02His mother, Kate Cole, pushed him into music from a young age, starting piano lessons at six.
3. 03By age ten, Porter had already composed his first operetta.
4. 04He attended Worcester Academy in Massachusetts, where he continued to hone his musical skills.
5. 05Porter went to Yale University, majoring in English, minoring in music, and writing over 300 songs during his time there.
6. 06He was a member of the Yale Glee Club and the Whiffenpoofs, an a cappella group.

Career Beginnings

Porter's career didn't take off immediately. He faced several challenges before becoming a household name.

7. 07After Yale, he studied at Harvard Law School but soon switched to the Harvard School of Music.
8. 08His first Broadway show, "See America First," was a flop, closing after just 15 performances.
9. 09Undeterred, Porter moved to Paris, where he mingled with the artistic elite and continued composing.
10. 10His first major success came with the 1928 musical "Paris," which featured the hit song "Let's Do It, Let's Fall in Love."

Major Works and Achievements

Porter's career is marked by numerous hits that have stood the test of time. Here are some highlights.

11. 11"Anything Goes," one of his most famous musicals, premiered in 1934 and was an instant hit.
12. 12The song "I Get a Kick Out of You" from "Anything Goes" remains a classic.
13. 13"Kiss Me, Kate," inspired by Shakespeare's "The Taming of the Shrew," won the first-ever Tony Award for Best Musical in 1949.
14. 14"Night and Day," one of his most enduring songs, was written for the 1932 musical "Gay Divorce."
15. 15Porter wrote the score for the 1948 film "The Pirate," starring Judy Garland and Gene Kelly.
16. 16His song "Begin the Beguine" became a jazz standard, covered by countless artists.

Personal Life

Porter's personal life was as colorful as his music. Here are some intriguing facts.

17. 17He married Linda Lee Thomas, a wealthy socialite, in 1919. Despite his homosexuality, their marriage was strong and supportive.
18. 18The couple lived a lavish lifestyle, hosting extravagant parties attended by the who's who of the time.
19. 19Porter was known for his wit and charm, often entertaining guests with impromptu performances.
20. 20He suffered a severe horseback riding accident in 1937, which left him in constant pain for the rest of his life.
21. 21Despite his injury, Porter continued to compose, often working from his bed.

Later Years and Legacy

Even in his later years, Porter continued to influence the world of music. His legacy lives on.

22. 22In the 1950s, he wrote the score for the musical "Can-Can," which included the hit song "I Love Paris."
23. 23His last Broadway show, "Silk Stockings," premiered in 1955.
24. 24Porter received numerous awards, including a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
25. 25He was inducted into the Songwriters Hall of Fame in 1970.
26. 26Despite his declining health, Porter continued to compose until his death in 1964.
27. 27His songs have been covered by artists ranging from Frank Sinatra to Lady Gaga.

Fun Facts

Porter's life was full of interesting tidbits that add color to his story.

28. 28He was fluent in French and often incorporated French phrases into his songs.
29. 29Porter had a passion for horseback riding, despite the accident that left him injured.
30. 30He was an avid traveler, often drawing inspiration from his trips around the world.
31. 31Porter was known for his extravagant wardrobe, often seen in custom-tailored suits.
32. 32He had a pet dog named "Cheeky," who was a constant companion.
33. 33Porter loved to cook and often prepared elaborate meals for his guests.
34. 34He was a fan of crossword puzzles and often created his own.
35. 35Porter had a collection of over 100 canes, which he used after his accident.
36. 36He was a close friend of actress Ethel Merman, who starred in several of his musicals.
37. 37Porter was known for his generosity, often helping friends and colleagues in need.
38. 38He had a lifelong love of classical music, often attending concerts and operas.
39. 39Porter's music continues to be celebrated, with numerous revivals and tributes dedicated to his work.

Cole Porter's Legacy

Cole Porter’s influence on music and theater remains undeniable. His knack for blending clever lyrics with catchy melodies has left an indelible mark on Broadway and beyond. From timeless classics like "Anything Goes" to the sophisticated "Night and Day," his songs continue to captivate audiences. Porter's ability to infuse humor, wit, and emotion into his work set him apart as a true musical genius.

His life, filled with both triumphs and challenges, adds depth to his legacy. Despite personal hardships, he produced a body of work that still resonates today. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to his music, exploring Cole Porter's songs offers a glimpse into the golden age of American musical theater. His contributions have shaped the landscape of modern music, ensuring that his legacy will endure for generations to come.