Natalie Cole, American singer-songwriter and actress (d. 2015)
Natalie Maria Cole (February 6, 1950 – December 31, 2015) was a highly acclaimed American singer, songwriter, and actress whose versatile career spanned several decades and genres. As the beloved daughter of the legendary jazz pianist and vocalist Nat King Cole, she carved out her own distinct and influential path in the music industry, leaving an indelible mark with her powerful voice and dynamic performances.
Early Triumphs and R&B Stardom in the 1970s
Natalie Cole first rose to widespread prominence in the mid-1970s, establishing herself as a formidable force in rhythm and blues (R&B). Her debut album, Inseparable, released in 1975, was an instant critical and commercial success. This seminal work introduced the world to her captivating vocal talent and featured some of her most iconic early hits that defined the era:
- "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)": Her groundbreaking debut single, this infectious R&B anthem became a massive crossover hit. It earned her a prestigious Grammy Award for Best Female R&B Vocal Performance in 1976, marking her as the first debut artist to win in that significant category.
- "Inseparable": The soulful title track from her debut album further solidified her position, showcasing her emotional depth and impressive vocal range. Its success, coupled with "This Will Be," contributed to her winning the coveted Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 1976, signaling her arrival as a major star.
- "Our Love" (1977): Continuing her chart dominance, this popular hit from her album of the same name demonstrated her sustained success and ability to consistently deliver chart-topping R&B tracks throughout the latter half of the decade.
Throughout this period, Natalie Cole's soulful delivery and vibrant stage presence made her one of the leading voices in R&B, earning her widespread critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
A Pop Resurgence in the Late 1980s
After navigating personal and professional challenges that temporarily slowed her career, Natalie Cole orchestrated a remarkable comeback in the late 1980s, skillfully transitioning into the pop genre. Her 1987 album, Everlasting, marked a pivotal moment in her career, successfully re-establishing her as a major contemporary artist. The album yielded several successful singles, including her vibrant and popular cover of Bruce Springsteen's hit, "Pink Cadillac." This rendition showcased her adaptability and ability to infuse her unique style into diverse musical landscapes, appealing to a broader pop audience and proving her enduring versatility as a vocalist.
Global Phenomenon: The Unforgettable Tribute of the 1990s
The 1990s ushered in Natalie Cole's most monumental achievement and arguably her most enduring legacy: a captivating and heartfelt journey into traditional pop, paying homage to her legendary father. Her 1991 album, Unforgettable... with Love, was a groundbreaking project that saw her reimagine her father Nat King Cole's timeless classics. The album's emotional and technical centerpiece was the innovative virtual duet of "Unforgettable," where her voice was digitally combined with her father's original 1951 recording, creating a poignant and seemingly live performance across generations. This pioneering use of technology captivated audiences worldwide.
This ambitious and deeply personal tribute resonated globally, becoming an unprecedented commercial and critical triumph:
- Record-Breaking Sales: The album sold over seven million copies in the United States alone, achieving multi-platinum status and cementing its place as one of the best-selling albums of its era. Its worldwide sales far exceeded this figure, ultimately reaching tens of millions globally, highlighting its immense international appeal.
- Grammy Awards Sweep: Unforgettable... with Love dominated the 34th Annual Grammy Awards in 1992, earning Natalie Cole an impressive seven awards. These included some of the night's most prestigious honors, such as Album of the Year, Record of the Year for the "Unforgettable" duet, and Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album, among others, solidifying her iconic status.
This album not only introduced her father's timeless music to a new generation but also profoundly showcased Natalie Cole's extraordinary vocal prowess and her deep, personal connection to her musical heritage, elevating her to the status of a global music icon.
Legacy and Total Sales
Throughout her illustrious career, Natalie Cole demonstrated exceptional versatility, moving seamlessly between R&B, pop, and traditional jazz. Her ability to consistently reinvent herself while maintaining her signature vocal integrity ensured her enduring appeal across diverse audiences. By the end of her career, Natalie Cole had sold over 30 million records worldwide, a testament to her widespread popularity and the timeless quality of her music. Beyond her profound impact as a singer and songwriter, she also pursued acting, further showcasing her diverse artistic talents until her passing on December 31, 2015.
Frequently Asked Questions About Natalie Cole
- When did Natalie Cole begin her music career?
- Natalie Cole rose to significant success in the mid-1970s, with her critically acclaimed debut album "Inseparable" released in 1975.
- What were Natalie Cole's most famous R&B songs?
- Her most notable R&B hits include "This Will Be (An Everlasting Love)" and "Inseparable" from 1975, and "Our Love" from 1977. These songs established her as a major R&B star.
- How did Natalie Cole honor her father, Nat King Cole, in her music?
- She released the monumental album "Unforgettable... with Love" in 1991. The album featured her performing her father's classic songs, most famously through an innovative virtual duet of "Unforgettable," where her voice was digitally combined with his original recording.
- How many Grammy Awards did Natalie Cole win?
- Natalie Cole won a total of nine Grammy Awards throughout her career, including an impressive seven awards from her monumental 1991 album "Unforgettable... with Love" alone.
- What were Natalie Cole's total record sales worldwide?
- By the end of her illustrious career, Natalie Cole had sold over 30 million records worldwide, highlighting her global reach and enduring popularity across multiple genres.