On March 17, we celebrate the birthday of the legendary Nat King Cole—a man whose velvety voice and timeless music made him one of the greatest artists of all time. But beyond the smooth vocals and jazz piano, there’s a lesser-known side to Cole: he was also a Freemason, part of the Prince Hall Masonic tradition.
Cole was a member of Thomas Waller Lodge No. 49 in Los Angeles, a group within Prince Hall Freemasonry, which has long been a cornerstone of Black leadership and community service in America. He wasn’t just a music icon—he was also a man of principle, embodying Masonic values of integrity, brotherhood, and charity.
Throughout his career, Cole broke barriers. He was the first Black man to host a nationally televised variety show in the U.S., and despite facing racism both in the industry and in his personal life (including threats when he moved into a white neighborhood), he always carried himself with dignity. That quiet strength and perseverance align closely with Masonic teachings about character and resilience.
Though he didn’t often speak publicly about his Masonic ties, he lived by them. He supported his community, stood against injustice, and remained a class act in every aspect of his life. Sadly, his life was cut short in 1965 due to lung cancer, but his legacy continues—not just in music, but in the way he inspired generations to come.
On his birthday, as we listen to classics like Unforgettable and Mona Lisa, it’s worth remembering that Nat King Cole wasn’t just a legendary artist—he was also a Brother who embodied the best of what Freemasonry stands for.
Happy birthday, Nat. You truly were unforgettable.
