It's been seven years since Natalie Cole passed away but many fans and other artists in the music industry still honor her legacy for her contribution.
The musician is popularly known for her jazz hits such as "This Will Be," "Miss You Like Crazy," "I Live for Your Love," and many more.
Let's look back at the successful life and career of the Jazz singer on her death anniversary.
Natalie Cole Early Life, Career
Born Natalie Maria Cole on February 6, 1950, in Los Angeles, California, the singer became very fond of music at a young age as her father was Nat King Cole, a legendary jazz pianist, and singer.
Her mother, Maria Hawkins Ellington, was also musically-inclined as she was a part of the Duke Ellington Orchestra.
Her career began at the age of six as she already appeared in her father's Christmas album titled "The Magic of Christmas." Five years later, she started performing.
Growing up, Cole was fond of musicians like Aretha Franklin and Janis Joplin. After graduating in 1972, she immediately began her career by singing at different venues with her band called Black Magic.
Many clubs welcomed her with open arms as she was the daughter of a legendary artist, but they were disappointed after hearing her sing cover versions of R&B and rock tracks, contrary to her father's genre of jazz.
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She later began writing songs and producing music with the help of Marvin Yancy and Chuch Jackson. She submitted her works to Capitol Records which later signed her as a recording artist. (via All Music)
Natalie Cole then released her debut album under the music giant titled "Inseparable" but her stardom didn't begin until after dropping her sophomore album "Natalie."
Since then, the jazz singer continued to dominate the music industry, receiving big honors such as having her own star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, winning seven Grammy Awards, and selling over 30 million records around the world.
Natalie Cole's Death
On December 31, 2015, Natalie Cole passed away at the age of 65. She died at Cedar Sinai Hospital in Los Angeles, California.
According to NBC News, her cause of death was "due to complications from ongoing health issues," but her family didn't reveal the specific illness or medical condition she experienced.
A statement from her family noted how "Fierce and courageous" the singer was, writing, "Natalie fought a fierce, courageous battle, dying how she lived ... with dignity, strength and honor."
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