Recognized as one of the great practitioners of American Song, Freddy Cole is widely regarded as one of the most influential singers in jazz. Growing up in a musical household, Freddy remembers “music was all around me.” In the Chicago home of his youth, visitors included Duke Ellington, Count Basie, and Lionel Hampton. Freddy Cole doesn’t apologize for sounding like his brother, Nat “King” Cole. There are certain unmistakable similarities. He plays piano, sings, and performs live with guitar and upright bass—just like Nat. Yet his voice is raspier, smokier, even jazzier. His vocals—suave, elegant, formidable, and articulate—are among the most respected in jazz.
Cole, who turned 82 last month, is a swinging jazz pianist and vocalist and a true American Treasure!