Renowned singer Tony Bennett, known for his captivating performances of timeless classics like “Rags to Riches,” “The Way You Look Tonight,” and his iconic song “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” passed away in New York City on Friday, as confirmed by his representative to CBS News. He was 96 years old. The cause of his death has not been disclosed. Bennett was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2016 and his final public concerts took place at New York’s Radio City Music Hall in celebration of his 95th birthday in 2021, alongside Lady Gaga.
During his illustrious seven-decade career, Bennett won 19 Grammy Awards and recorded 60 studio albums, as well as numerous live albums and compilations. Seven of his albums reached the Top 10 on the Billboard charts. However, it was his connection to a particular song that became synonymous with his name. “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” was originally released as the B-side of Bennett’s 1962 record, “Once Upon a Time.” Nevertheless, it went on to win the Grammy for Record of the Year and became Bennett’s signature tune.
Bennett’s passion for sharing the Great American Songbook, which includes works by legendary composers such as George and Ira Gershwin, E.Y. Yarburg, Irving Berlin, Cole Porter, Duke Ellington, and Johnny Mercer, contributed to his enduring success as a performer. He delighted audiences with his exceptional vocal ability and contagious joy on stage.
Bennett often spoke about the advice he received from Frank Sinatra during a meeting in 1956. Sinatra told him that if he showed his nervousness, the audience would embrace him and offer even more support. This advice transformed Bennett’s perspective, allowing him to view the public as friends rather than adversaries. Sinatra’s endorsement of Bennett as “the best in the business” in a 1965 Life magazine interview proved to be a career-changing moment for the singer, catapulting him to international fame.
In 2014, at the age of 88, Bennett collaborated with Lady Gaga on an album of duets titled “Cheek to Cheek.” The record became a chart-topper and won the Grammy for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album. Bennett continued to connect with younger audiences, recording additional albums with Lady Gaga and Diana Krall.
Born on August 3, 1926, in Queens, New York, Bennett experienced a childhood marked by poverty due to his father’s illness. He dropped out of school to support his family and began performing in restaurants and saloons. After serving in World War II, he pursued a singing career with the support of the GI Bill, attending the American Theatre Wing.
Bennett’s journey was not without its challenges, and he underwent a career slump in the 1970s. However, he made a triumphant comeback, thanks to the efforts of his son, Danny, who became his manager. With a renewed recording deal and appearances on “MTV Unplugged,” Bennett regained his status as a beloved artist.
Tony Bennett’s indelible legacy as a gifted singer and artist will forever be cherished. His impact on the world of music, particularly jazz, pop, and Broadway, is immeasurable. He leaves behind a treasure trove of timeless recordings and a lasting influence on future generations of musicians.
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