Maria Cole was an American jazz singer known for her remarkable talent and her marriage to the legendary Nat King Cole. While her life was filled with musical achievements and personal milestones, it was also marked by challenges and loss. In this article, we explore her life, career, family, and her eventual passing.
Early Life and Parents
Maria Cole, born Maria Hawkins, came into this world on August 1, 1922, in Boston, Massachusetts. Her parents, Mingo and Carol Hawkins, were influential in her early musical development. Mingo was a postal worker, and Carol was a homemaker. From a young age, Maria was exposed to music and showed a natural talent for singing.
Musical Beginnings
Maria began her singing career in the 1940s. Her talent quickly caught the attention of some of the biggest names in jazz. She performed with the likes of Count Basie and Duke Ellington. Her voice, characterized by its smooth and sultry tones, won her many fans and admirers.
Marriage to Nat King Cole
Maria Cole is perhaps best known as the spouse of Nat King Cole, one of the most iconic figures in American music history. The couple met in 1946 and were married on March 28, 1948. Their marriage was a partnership in both life and music.
Life Together
Maria and Nat King Cole had a loving relationship that lasted until Nat’s untimely death in 1965. Together, they navigated the challenges of fame and family life. Despite the pressures of Nat’s career, they remained devoted to each other and their children.
How Many Kids Did Nat King Cole Have with His First Wife?
Nat King Cole had three biological children with Maria Cole and adopted two more. Their children included Natalie Cole, who followed in her parents’ musical footsteps, and twins Timolin and Casey Cole. They also adopted Maria’s sister’s child, Carole, and Nat’s brother’s child, Nat Kelly Cole.
Children and Family Life
Natalie Cole
Natalie Cole was perhaps the most famous of Nat and Maria’s children. She became a successful singer in her own right, winning multiple Grammy Awards and continuing her father’s musical legacy. Natalie often spoke of her parents’ influence on her career and the close bond she shared with them.
Other Children
The Cole family also included Timolin and Casey, who chose paths outside of the spotlight but remained close to their parents. Carole, who was adopted by the Coles, also pursued a career in entertainment, working as an actress and producer.
What Happened to Nat King Cole’s Adopted Son?
Nat Kelly Cole, the adopted son of Nat King Cole from his brother, struggled with various personal issues throughout his life. Unfortunately, Nat Kelly Cole passed away in 1995 due to complications related to AIDS.
Maria Cole’s Later Years
After Nat King Cole’s death, Maria faced the challenge of raising their children alone while managing her own career. She continued to perform and remained active in the music industry. Her resilience and dedication to her family were evident as she balanced her roles as a mother and a performer.
How Old Was Maria Cole When She Died?
Maria Cole passed away on July 10, 2012, at the age of 89. Her death marked the end of an era for the Cole family and the music world. She left behind a legacy of talent, strength, and grace.
Legacy and Impact
Maria Cole’s impact on the music industry and her family is undeniable. She was more than just the spouse of Nat King Cole; she was a talented singer and a devoted mother. Her life story serves as an inspiration to many, showcasing the power of resilience and the importance of family.
Musical Contributions
Maria’s contributions to jazz and popular music are often overshadowed by her husband’s fame, but she was a talented artist in her own right. Her performances with legendary bands and musicians helped shape the sound of an era.
Family Influence
The influence of Maria and Nat King Cole on their children is evident in their successes and careers. Natalie Cole’s achievements, in particular, stand as a testament to the musical legacy of the Cole family. The values and lessons imparted by Maria and Nat continue to resonate with their descendants.
Conclusion
Maria Cole’s life was a blend of triumphs and tribulations, marked by her remarkable talent and her role as the matriarch of the Cole family. Her marriage to Nat King Cole, her career in music, and her dedication to her children paint a picture of a woman who lived a full and impactful life.
Maria Cole may have left this world, but her legacy lives on through her music and her family. Her story is a reminder of the enduring power of love, talent, and resilience.
