"I'm a musician at heart. I know I'm not really a singer. I couldn't compete with real singers. But I sing because the public buys it."
About Nat King Cole
Nat King Cole — Life and Legacy
Nat King Cole, an iconic figure in American music, is renowned for his velvety voice and sophisticated piano skills. His contributions to jazz and pop music, especially through classics like 'Unforgettable,' have left an indelible mark on the music industry. Cole's artistry transcended racial barriers during a time of significant social upheaval, making him a pivotal figure in the cultural landscape of the 20th century. His core philosophy centered around love and connection, as evidenced in his poignant lyrics and heartfelt performances. For instance, when he stated, 'The greatest thing you'll ever learn is just to love and be loved in return,' he encapsulated the essence of his worldview, emphasizing love as a fundamental human experience. This perspective not only resonated with his audience but also challenged the norms of his era, promoting a message of unity and emotional depth. Cole's impact remains significant today; his quotes and music continue to inspire listeners, illustrating the timeless nature of love and the power of music to evoke deep emotions. His ability to blend genres and reach diverse audiences set a precedent for future artists, ensuring that his legacy endures in the hearts of many.
Quote collection
Nat King Cole quotes (page 1 of 2)
38 quotes — follow a thought to its full quote page.
"If you smile through your fear and sorrow, smile and maybe tomorrow you'll see the sun come shining through for you."
"Music is emotional, and you may catch a musician in a very unemotional mood or you may not be in the same frame of mind as the musician. So a critic will often say a musician is slipping."
"People don't slip. Time catches up with them."
"Unforgettable in every way, and forever more, that's how you'll stay."
"I'm an interpreter of stories. When I perform it's like sitting down at my piano and telling fairy stories."
"The people who know nothing about music are the ones always talking about it."
"Smile and maybe tomorrow you'll see that life is still worth while if you just smile"
"I may be helping to bring harmony between people through my music."
"I felt something impossible for me to explain in words. Then, when they took her away, it hit me. I got scared all over again and began to feel giddy. Then it came to me... I was a father."
"I am an American citizen and feel I am entitled to the same rights as any other citizen."
"The Supreme Court is having a hard time integrating schools. What chance do I have to integrate audiences?"
"I was a guinea pig for some hoodlums who thought they could hurt me and frighten me and keep other Negro entertainers from the South."
"I'm not playing for other musicians. We're trying to reach the guy who works all day and wants to spend a buck at night. We'll keep him happy."
"When I first organized the King Cole Trio back in 1937, we were strictly what you would call an instrumental group. To break the monotony, I would sing a few songs here and there between the playing. I sang things I had known over the years. I wasn't trying to give it any special treatment, just singing. I noticed thereafter people started requesting more singing, and it was just one of those things."
"It's not the people in the South who create racial problems - it's the people who are governing."
"I got the message. All of us get the message, sooner or later. If you get it before it's too late or before you're too old, you'll pull through all right."
"Only time, education and plenty of good schooling will make anti-segregation work."
"I often wonder whether Negroes like myself who are pretty well known help out at all in breaking down barriers."
"I ... started out to become a jazz pianist; in the meantime I started singing and I sang the way I felt and that's just the way it came out."