Nat King Cole was an American singer and pianist who gained popularity in the 1940s and 1950s. He was born in 1917 in Alabama and began singing and playing organ in his church's choir at age 12. Cole formed a jazz band in the 1930s and began recording successful jazz and pop songs in the 1940s. Some of his most famous songs included "Unforgettable", "L-O-V-E", and "Mona Lisa". Cole fought against segregation and would only perform at integrated venues. He died of lung cancer in 1965 at age 45, leaving a significant impact on music through his iconic songs.