Ike Cole; led musical trio; brother of Nat `King' Cole

His family can be considered almost pop royalty.

His brother, Nat "King" Cole, was an American classic in the1950s, and his niece, Natalie Cole, is a pop artist.

Chicago's Isaac "Ike" Cole also was an accomplished musician,playing on Natalie's Grammy award-winning record, "Unforgettable WithLove," and heading up the Ike Cole trio.

Mr. Cole, 73, died Sunday of cancer in Sun Lakes near Scottsdale,Ariz.

A bit heavier and taller than his more famous brother, Mr. Colewas commonly compared with him.

"He definitely had the same style, but I think he also had his ownfollowing," said Nick Caruso Sr., a founder of Jilly's EntertainmentGroup, which includes Chicago spots such as Jilly's Piano Bar andRetro Club and Italian Steakhouse. "He always attracted a largecrowd.

In 1966, when he did his first U.S. tour, a Los Angeles Timescritic wrote: "Ike's piano work, like Nat's, is outstanding, and heseems to enjoy every minute he's in the spotlight."

That constant comparison, however, upset the pianist when peoplewould say that he was "trying to live off the name." He thought aboutchanging it to quiet the critics, but opted against it at the requestof Nat.

But early in his career, Ike was asked if he tried to copy hisbrother's style. "Perhaps unconsciously. I guess it's a family traitbecause my brothers also sing this way."

Mr. Cole's first big audience was when he played a bass drum in anArmy band in 1957. After that he soon formed the Ike Cole Trio inChicago and hit the road. The band found steady work in Las Vegas andwas well-received overseas.

The band also was known for television appearances on the varietyshows of Andy Williams, Dean Martin and Red Skelton.

Mr. Cole is survived by his wife, Margie Cole, and three sons,Larry, Jimmy and Eddie Cole.

Services were held Friday in Arizona. Cards can be sent to theCole family at 25843 Newtown Dr., Sun Lakes, Ariz. 85248.