Natalie Cole was an American singer and actress who is best known for her hits such as “This Will Be,” “Unforgettable,” and “Pink Cadillac.” She was the daughter of famed jazz musician Nat ‘King’ Cole and was recognized for her powerful voice and emotional songs.
Personal and Family Life
Natalie Maria Cole was born on February 6, 1950, in Los Angeles, California. She grew up in a musically gifted family, being the daughter of Nat ‘King’ Cole and Maria Cole, who was also a singer. She was raised alongside her siblings, including Casey Cole and Timolin Cole. Natalie’s early exposure to music and stars like Frank Sinatra influenced her artistic path.
Career Highlights
Natalie’s music career took off with her debut album “Inseparable” in 1975, which produced the hit single “This Will Be.” Throughout the late 70s and 80s, she experienced ups and downs, battling drug addiction while also gaining fame with several popular songs. Her tribute album “Unforgettable…with Love,” which featured a virtual duet with her father, became one of her most significant successes, winning numerous awards and selling over 30 million copies.
Death and Legacy
Natalie Cole died on December 31, 2015, in Los Angeles due to congestive heart failure associated with lung disease. Her passing marked the end of a vibrant and tumultuous life filled with music and personal struggles. She left behind a rich legacy in the music world, influencing countless artists and fans with her incredible voice.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| Always Outnumbered | 1998-03-21 | Iula Brown |
| Hit Man Returns: David Foster & Friends | 2011-03-11 | Self |
| Lily in Winter | 1994-12-08 | Lily Covington |
| Freak City | 1999-01-16 | Eleanor |
| Natalie Cole: Ask a Woman Who Knows | 2002-06-01 | |
| The Most Wonderful Time of the Year Featuring Natalie Cole | 2010-09-07 | Self |
| Cats Don’t Dance | 1997-03-26 | Sawyer (singing voice) |
| Sinatra and Friends | 1977-04-20 | Self – Singer |
| Livin’ for Love: The Natalie Cole Story | 2000-12-10 | Herself |
| Unforgettable, with Love: Natalie Cole Sings the Songs of Nat King Cole | 1992-06-02 | Self |
| The Natalie Cole Special | 1978-04-26 | Herself |
| De-Lovely | 2004-07-02 | Natalie Cole |
| Grey’s Anatomy | 2005-03-27 | Sylvia Booker |
| Law & Order: Special Victims Unit | 1999-09-20 | Serena Waldren |