Tony Bennett, the suave and smooth American singer known for his timeless hit “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” and admired for his eternal coolness, passed away on Friday at the age of 96. His publicist, Sylvia Weiner, confirmed that Bennett died at his home in New York City due to age-related causes.
Bennett’s vocal prowess was so exceptional that even the legendary Frank Sinatra hailed him as “the best singer in the business” when he rose to stardom in the 1950s. Over the course of his illustrious career, Bennett garnered an impressive 20 Grammy Awards, including a lifetime achievement award.
Paying tribute to the iconic artist, President Joe Biden described Bennett’s life as “legendary” and emphasized that Bennett himself embodied the essence of an American classic.
Throughout his career, Bennett continuously expanded his artistic horizons by collaborating with a diverse range of musical talents. Even in his late 80s, he recorded an album of duets with the unconventional Lady Gaga in 2014, and together, they embarked on a world tour in 2015. Bennett’s “Duet” albums featured acclaimed partners such as Paul McCartney, Aretha Franklin, Willie Nelson, and Bono from U2, captivating audiences from various genres.
In 2016, Bennett celebrated his 90th birthday with a star-studded party in New York City, attended by celebrities like Bruce Willis and John Travolta. The Empire State Building illuminated the night sky with a special light show in his honor. The same year, Bennett also published his memoir titled “Just Getting Started,” providing an intimate look into his extraordinary life and career.
In 2021, Bennett bravely revealed that he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease back in 2016. However, despite his illness, he continued to record music, stating on Twitter that “Life is a gift – even with Alzheimer’s.” Regrettably, due to the progression of his condition, Bennett retired from performing after his concerts at New York’s Radio City Music Hall on August 3 and 5, 2021.
Tony Bennett’s career experienced both highs and lows. In the late 1970s, he faced personal challenges, including a decaying marriage, a cocaine habit, a substantial tax debt, and limited career prospects. But he made a remarkable comeback under the management of his son Danny, who reintroduced him to younger generations, propelling him to newfound popularity.
Born Anthony Dominick Benedetto on August 3, 1926, in New York City, Bennett’s love for music and painting emerged at an early age. He caught the attention of comedian Bob Hope, who discovered him while he was performing under the name Joe Bari in Greenwich Village. Hope suggested he change his name to Tony Bennett and became instrumental in his rise to fame.
Bennett’s initial success came with a string of pop hits in the 1950s, including “Because of You,” a cover of Hank Williams’ “Cold, Cold Heart,” “Blue Velvet,” and “Rags to Riches.” However, as rock ‘n’ roll gained popularity, Bennett shifted towards jazz and matured his audience.
Throughout his life, Bennett remained a champion of human rights, participating in the civil rights march in Selma, Alabama, in 1965 alongside Martin Luther King Jr. His activism and dedication to the arts earned him admiration from fellow activists and civil rights leaders.
In 1962, Bennett immortalized himself with “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” which became his signature song and a cherished classic. A statue in his honor was unveiled outside San Francisco’s Fairmont Hotel, where he first performed the song over five decades earlier.
Bennett’s career received a remarkable revival in the late 1970s, and he continued to connect with younger audiences through MTV appearances and collaborations with contemporary stars. His “MTV Unplugged” album won the prestigious Grammy for Album of the Year in 1995, further solidifying his enduring appeal across generations.
Tony Bennett’s legacy lives on through his timeless music, his contributions to the arts and civil rights, and the indelible mark he left on American culture. His passing marks the end of an era, but his spirit will forever resonate in the hearts of music lovers worldwide.
