Tony Bennett, a beloved and cherished vocalist who captured the hearts of millions, died at 96.
As the last surviving star from the heyday of mid-century crooners, Bennett stood out among the greatest interpreters of the revered Great American Songbook, and none other than his close friend and peer, Frank Sinatra, hailed him as “the best singer in the business.”
Tony Bennett’s performances of jazz standards enthralled listeners throughout his distinguished career, endearing him to music fans of all ages. Furthermore, he popularized songs like “Rags to Riches” and inscribed his name in history with his classic anthem, “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.”
His spokeswoman, Sylvia Weiner, confirmed Bennett’s death to the Associated Press, saying he left his birthplace of New York. Since 2016, the iconic singer has been battling Alzheimer’s disease.
Early Years
Tony Bennett was born Anthony Dominick Benedetto on August 3, 1926, in the bustling area of Astoria, Queens, and lost his father at ten. Bennett’s enthusiasm for music was born when he became fascinated with the great jazz legend Louis Armstrong while being raised by his mother, a brilliant seamstress, and his two siblings.
Bennett had to drop out of high school early to support his family, which led him to work as a singing waiter at an Italian restaurant.
It was an excellent training ground since I learned so many songs from the chefs in the kitchen when we got requests for songs with lyrics that we didn’t know.”
Bennett’s musical endeavors were interrupted by his service in the United States Army as an infantry rifleman during World War II. Nonetheless, he managed to lift the spirits of his fellow soldiers by performing musically as part of a band unit.
Early Achievement
After returning to civilian life, Tony Bennett sharpened his vocal skills at the American Theatre Wing. In 1950, he drew the attention of Columbia Records, launching a lucrative career as a pop crooner.
His meteoric rise to popularity reached new heights with his first number-one single, “Rags to Riches,” in 1953, laying the groundwork for a legendary career. During this time, he shared the spotlight with superstars such as Frank Sinatra and became a sought-after performer in nightclubs and elsewhere.
Bennett’s career was transformed in 1962 when he recorded his hallmark song, “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.”
The recording not only earned him a Grammy Award for Record of the Year but also appeared on a platinum-selling album of the same name.
Popularity Has Persisted Over the Decades
As musical trends evolved away from the styles that marked Bennett’s earlier years, the timeless crooner was able to defy time and appeal to younger generations while remaining committed to classic standards.
Tony Bennett made a remarkable return in the 1990s by appealing to the “MTV generation.” His appearances on late-night talk shows and MTV, including his legendary MTV Unplugged special, endeared him to a new audience. The frosting on the cake was his Grammy Award for Album of the Year, which confirmed his enduring appeal.
Bennett, unfazed by the passage of time, continued to amaze audiences with sold-out concerts, chart-topping albums, and a slew of awards. Collaborations with younger musicians cemented his status as an evergreen legend.
His best-selling album was “Duets: An American Classic,” which featured performances by Elton John, Billy Joel, Celine Dion, and Bono.
Partnership with Lady Gaga
Surprisingly, Tony Bennett’s most successful duet was with none other than Lady Gaga, the phenomenal pop diva. They went on a successful tour together and published their first album of pop standard duets, “Cheek to Cheek,” in 2014.
The record’s massive success earned them a Grammy for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Record, and Tony Bennett became the oldest performer to top the charts with a new album.
Alzheimer’s Disease Diagnosis
Bennett remained resilient and continued performing for as long as he could despite his struggle with Alzheimer’s, a degenerative neurological condition associated with dementia and memory loss.
Gayatri Devi, M.D., the neurologist who diagnosed him, said of his steadfast spirit, “He is doing so many things, at 94, that many people without dementia cannot do.”
Bennett issued his final album, “Love For Sale,” in his 95th year as a monument to his enduring enthusiasm for music. This last musical offering, a collaboration with Lady Gaga, praised Cole Porter while highlighting their incredible chemistry.
The pair also performed two historic concerts at New York’s renowned Radio City Music Hall, aptly named “One Last Time: An Evening with Tony Bennett and Lady Gaga,” billed as his farewell performance, after which he announced his well-deserved retirement.
A Glorious Legacy
Tony Bennett’s astonishing career spanned seven decades when he blessed the world with over 70 albums, selling over 50 million copies worldwide. His lifetime achievements were exceptional, including an impressive collection of 20 Grammy Awards.
As we say goodbye to this unrivaled music genius, the echoes of his immortal songs and the enchantment of his voice will reverberate through the halls of history, leaving an everlasting impact on the hearts of music lovers everywhere. Tony Bennett’s legacy lives on, and his songs will continue to inspire and delight future generations.
