Lionel Cole Quartet "Centennial Tribute to Nat King Cole"
It is with sadness we inform you that due to health complications, Freddy Cole is unable to fly to Denver for his upcoming performance this Monday & Tuesday (February 25th & 26th). Rather than cancel the performances all together, it is Freddy’s wish to send his son, Lionel Cole, to sit in with his band for the final few dates of the current US tour they are engaged in. They will still be performing the same program recognizing the Centennial of Nat King Cole. In addition to the Dazzle performances, Lionel will be performing with Freddy Cole’s band this Sunday as a headliner at the PDX Jazz Festival in Portland. We are confident that we are in good hands with the youngest torch bearer of the Cole name.
Jay Sawyer-Drums Elias Bailey-Bass Sam Raderman-Guitar Lionel Cole- Piano/Vocals
Lionel Cole is a pianist, songwriter, and composer. He has served as a regularly touring member Mariah Carey’s live band. Lionel’s work with singer Mariah Carey, included piano playing on her #1 single, “Never Too Far Hero” and co-writing three songs notably the heartfelt hit “Through the Rain” from her multi-platinum album CHARMBRACELET. One of Lionel’s proudest moments was arranging the Star Spangled Banner for Mariah and the Boston Pops at the 2002 Superbowl following 9/11. Lionel also was featured keyboarding and background singing for Mariah’s worldwide tour which played to sold-out audiences of people drawn to music they can feel. Music that inspires.
“Nat died before I was born, but growing up in my father (Freddy’s) house was pretty intense. Anybody from George Benson to Frank Sinatra would be around, it was quite a way to watch the business. All my uncles were in the business and as a public family we’ve always been conscious of doing as many positive things as is possible. It’s why I spent most of my career as a composer and songwriter, I wrote really positive songs for Mariah Carey and really wanted to make my own mark as a valuable part of that legacy, not just another wanker with a cool name.”
