Just a few days before his demise, his representatives disclosed that Tony Bennett was still performing.
The renowned pop and jazz vocalist from New York passed away at 96.
His Twitter account announced his passing with a heartfelt message: “Tony has departed from us today, but he was still performing at his piano just a few days ago, ending with ‘Because of You,’ his first number-one hit. Tony, your melodies will forever resonate in our hearts.”
Prominent figures, including Sir Elton John, Carole King, and Hillary Clinton, took to social media to commemorate the legendary singer.
Bennett, famous for hits such as “The Way You Look Tonight,” “Body and Soul,” and “(I Left My Heart) In San Francisco,” collaborated with various notable artists throughout his career, including Lady Gaga, Aretha Franklin, and Frank Sinatra—who dubbed him “the best singer in the business.”
Throughout a career over eight decades, Bennett amassed countless record sales and bagged 20 Grammy Awards, including a lifetime achievement award.
Bennett’s publicist, Sylvia Weiner, confirmed his passing to the Associated Press, noting that he died in his native New York. Although no specific cause of death was given, Bennett had been battling Alzheimer’s disease since 2016.
Sir Elton John expressed his grief on Instagram: “Devastated to learn of Tony’s passing. Undeniably the most sophisticated singer, man, and performer you’ll ever encounter. He’s truly irreplaceable. My deepest sympathies to Susan, Danny, and the family.”
The White House praised Bennett as an “American classic,” recognizing his invaluable contributions to the nation’s culture. Hillary Clinton paid tribute to him as a “true talent, a true gentleman, and a true friend,” while Carole King mourned the “huge loss.”
Anthony Dominick Benedetto, born to Italian immigrant parents, faced hardships from an early age when his father passed away when he was just nine. His talent led him to study music and painting at the New York School of Industrial Art before starting his singing career.
After returning from World War Two, Bennett saw his career take off with the release of ‘Because of You’ in 1951, earning him his first number-one spot. He then changed his stage name to Tony Bennett under Bob Hope’s suggestion.
Throughout his career, Bennett managed to maintain his relevance, consistently charting in the US across decades and captivating fans with his timeless hits and big band numbers. His 1962 hit, ‘I Left My Heart in San Francisco,’ earned him two Grammys and solidified his stardom.
Bennett actively supported the civil rights movement, and despite personal struggles, he never stopped making music. He experienced a resurgence in popularity during the 1980s and 1990s, receiving several Grammy awards.
Bennett retained his appeal to newer generations, collaborating with younger artists like Amy Winehouse, Queen Latifah, and Carrie Underwood. His collaborative album with Lady Gaga, ‘Cheek to Cheek,’ in 2014 made him the oldest living artist to top the US charts.
In his later years, Bennett continued performing even after his Alzheimer’s diagnosis. Outside of music, Bennett, an avid painter, showcased his art in galleries and established the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts in his hometown, Queens.
His four children survive Bennett—Danny, Dae, Joanna, and Antonia—and his wife, Susan Crow.
Numerous artists paid tribute to Bennett, including musician Nile Rogers and singers Ozzy Osbourne and Keith Richards.
As we bid farewell to Tony Bennett, we remember him as a stellar singer, a remarkable artist, and a man of great heart. His immeasurable contribution to the music industry, enduring spirit, and timeless hits will continue to inspire and resonate with music lovers worldwide. His melody, just like his memory, will indeed live in our hearts forever.
