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Freddy Cole

What can I say about Freddy Cole, who performed with the Carolina Pops at War Memorial Auditorium last night?

The 76-year-old brother of legendary vocalist Nat "King" Cole delivered a mellow, easy-listening show featuring songs from an earlier era. This was your father's New Year's Eve party. His play list covered some of Nat "King" Cole's standards, including "Mona Lisa" and "Unforgettable," but he added a little number that insisted he's his own artist.

Freddy Cole has a pleasant voice, and he displayed a darn good hand at the piano. He's personable, friendly and sentimental, dedicating one song to his wife of 48 years. At times, I could detect some vocal similarities to you-know-who. But a wicked thought kept entering my mind: With his slightly stooped posture and somewhat unsteady gait, Freddy Cole struck me as an odd blend of Nat "King" Cole and Redd Roxx's Fred Sanford.

Comments (2)

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Cynthia Crane said:

Apart from the veiled racism in the above, (Fred Sanford? This is close to Imus like, don't you think?) what is the mission of the Pops Orchestra? I would think to serve all facets of the community. But, when a Beatles show is presented, protests are heard about Rock and Roll music like it was 1953...when a Big Band show is presented the "youngsters" (40's?) complain. How about a season like this one that offers a great Motown show, a classy and sophisticated New Year's show, then a Valentine's Tribute to the Baby Boomers and finally a John Williams evening. Seems like a season that includes something for everyone to enjoy . Could have been another Night In Old Vienna Concert for New Years...how old would your Father have to be for that?

Doug said:

Racism? What?

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