21-7-2023 (LOS ANGELES) Tony Bennett, the iconic American singer known for his enduring hit “I Left My Heart In San Francisco,” has died at the age of 96, as reported by the Associated Press on Friday (Jul 21).
A singing sensation since the 1950s, Bennett was revered by none other than Frank Sinatra, who hailed him as “the best singer in the business.” Over the course of his illustrious career, Bennett earned an impressive 20 Grammy awards, including a prestigious lifetime achievement award.
As he aged, Bennett’s collaborations expanded to include diverse artists. In 2014, he recorded an album of duets with the unconventional Lady Gaga, embarking on a successful world tour with her in 2015. His popular “Duet” albums featured esteemed partners such as Paul McCartney, Aretha Franklin, Willie Nelson, and Bono from U2.
The celebrations for Bennett’s 90th birthday in 2016 took New York by storm, attracting a host of celebrities like Bruce Willis and John Travolta. The Empire State Building even lit up in his honor. In the same year, he released his memoir titled “Just Getting Started.”
In early 2021, Bennett revealed that he had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease back in 2016. Nevertheless, he continued recording after the diagnosis and tweeted, “Life is a gift – even with Alzheimer’s.”
Due to his health condition, Bennett retired from performing after his final concerts at Radio City Music Hall on August 3 and 5, 2021.
Tony Bennett’s career was a mix of triumphs and challenges. In the late 1970s, he faced a failing marriage, a cocaine addiction, a substantial $2 million tax debt, and limited career prospects. However, his son Danny took over his management, sparking a resurgence in his popularity and introducing him to younger generations.
Before reaching this pivotal phase in his career, Bennett’s talent was discovered by none other than comedian Bob Hope when he performed as Joe Bari in New York’s Greenwich Village. Hope was so impressed that he persuaded the singer to change his name to Tony Bennett and featured him as an opening act.
Signing with Columbia Records led to a string of pop hits, including “Because of You,” a cover of Hank Williams’ country classic “Cold, Cold Heart,” “Blue Velvet,” and “Rags to Riches.” Bennett’s shows were filled with adoring teenage fans.
As the rock ‘n’ roll era gained momentum in the mid-1950s, Bennett shifted towards jazz, collaborating with top names in the genre and recording the album “Basie Swings, Bennett Sings” with the Count Basie Orchestra. He drew inspiration from jazz and the works of renowned songwriters like Cole Porter, Johnny Mercer, George and Ira Gershwin, and Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart.
In 1962, Bennett recorded the now-iconic “I Left My Heart In San Francisco,” a song tucked away by his musical director, pianist Ralph Sharon. Although it only reached No. 19 on the Billboard chart, it became his signature song and a timeless classic.
Tony Bennett’s enduring appeal among different generations can be attributed to his ability to bridge gaps and appeal to a wide audience. His 1986 album “The Art Of Excellence” marked a successful resurgence in his career, thanks to the efforts of his son Danny, who introduced him to younger audiences through innovative marketing strategies, including appearances on MTV.
His “MTV Unplugged” album earned him the prestigious Grammy for Album of the Year in 1995, as well as Best Traditional Pop Vocal Performance. Bennett’s two “Duets” albums in 2006 and 2011 also garnered immense popularity, drawing the admiration of younger listeners due to his collaborations with contemporary stars.
Throughout his remarkable journey, Tony Bennett remained true to the material he loved, always identifying himself as a jazz singer. His rich legacy of timeless classics, like “Stranger In Paradise,” “The Way You Look Tonight,” “I Wanna Be Around,” “The Lady Is A Tramp,” and “Body And Soul,” will continue to resonate with music enthusiasts for generations to come.
In June 2007, Bennett married Susan Crow, a former teacher, after an 18-year relationship. He had four children with his two previous wives, Patricia Beech and Sandra Grant.
