Freddy Cole April 30, 2010

Freddy Cole has been a recording artist since 1952, when his first single "The Jokes on Me" was released on an obscure Chicago-based label. During the 1970s, Cole recorded several albums for European and English companies that helped him develop a loyal overseas following. A resident of Atlanta, Georgia since 1972, he currently leads a quartet that regularly tours the United States, Europe, the Far East and South America.Cole doesn't apologize for sounding like his brother, Nat "King" Cole. There are certain unmistakable similarities. He plays piano and sings and performs live with guitar and upright bass, just like Nat. Yet his voice is raspier, smokier, jazzier even. But he has emerged from the awesome shadow cast by his elder brother. In truth, his phrasing is far closer to that of Frank Sinatra or Billie Holiday than that of his brother and his timing swings a little more.His vocals are suave, elegant, formidable and articulate and are among the most respected in jazz. Coles career continues to ascend as he has moved into the front ranks of Americas most precious art form with a style and musical sophistication uniquely his own.