Freddy Cole was a jazz singer and pianist who was nominated for several Grammy Awards, including in 2019 for Best Jazz Vocal Album. He was Nat King Cole’s younger brother.
- Died: June 27, 2020 (Who else died on June 27?)
- Details of death: Died of complications from a cardiovascular ailment at the age of 88.
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A musical family
Cole grew up playing music, just like his brothers, Nat King Cole, Eddie Cole, and Ike Cole, all of whom became professional musicians. Cole began learning piano when he was six, and he went on to study at the Julliard School of Music. Though he often found himself in the shadow of his brother’s legendary music, Cole won his own acclaim and following on the strength of popular tracks including “Whispering Grass.” His signature song, “I’m Not My Brother, I’m Me,” took a playful poke at his brother’s fame. Cole was inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame in 2007.
Cole on comparisons to his brother
“How am I different than Nat? That’s for you to decide, but I feel there’s a distinct difference. But I don’t worry about it. What I worry about is sounding good. I go and play music and do the best show I can do.” —from a 1995 interview with the Los Angeles Times
What people said about him
Full obituary: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution
