Cole Albert Porter (June 9, 1891 – October 15, 1964) was an influential American composer and lyricist known for his sophisticated and witty songs. Born into a wealthy family in Peru, Indiana, Porter was encouraged by his grandfather to pursue a career in law, but his passion for music led him to become one of the most celebrated figures in American musical theatre.

Porter began his musical education early, learning the violin at six and the piano at eight. He composed his first operetta at ten, demonstrating his precocious talent. Despite his grandfather's wishes, Porter pursued music at Yale University, where he wrote approximately 300 songs, including the famous fight song "Bulldog." He briefly attended Harvard Law School but soon switched to studying music.

Porter's career in musical theatre took off in the 1920s, and by the 1930s, he was one of Broadway's leading composers. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Porter wrote both the music and lyrics for his songs, which became known for their urbane and clever lyrics. His notable works include "Night and Day," "I Get a Kick Out of You," "Begin the Beguine," and "I've Got You Under My Skin."

In 1937, Porter suffered a severe horseback riding accident that left him in constant pain and eventually led to the amputation of a leg. Despite this, he continued to work, achieving a major success with the musical "Kiss Me, Kate" in 1948, which won the first Tony Award for Best Musical.

Porter's extensive body of work includes musicals such as "Anything Goes," "Can-Can," and "Silk Stockings," as well as film scores for Hollywood. His sophisticated style and mastery of the interior rhyme have left a lasting impact on the American songbook.

Cole Porter passed away in Santa Monica, California, in 1964, leaving behind a legacy of more than 800 songs that continue to be celebrated for their elegance and wit.