In recent days, the world bid farewell to Tony Bennett, a legendary artist who passed away at the remarkable age of 96. Notably, before his final moments, Bennett graced us with one last, heartfelt performance while sitting at his beloved piano. The song he chose was none other than his first sensational hit from 1951, “Because of You.” This timeless single served as the catalyst for Bennett’s extraordinary seven-decade career in the realms of fame, fortune, and musical legend. However, “Because of You” was not just a stepping stone for him. Unlike many artists who downplay their early work, Bennett held this song close to his heart, recognizing its profound significance. Without “Because of You,” none of Bennett’s remarkable achievements could have been possible.
At the time Bennett recorded this masterpiece, he was a young 24-year-old from Queens. Despite his involvement in World War II, including the harrowing experience of participating in the liberation of Nazi concentration camps, Bennett’s musical career had yet to gain substantial momentum. He had sung in Army bands as part of the postwar occupation force and eventually found himself at Columbia Records, a label that also housed the iconic Frank Sinatra. However, his career seemed on the verge of faltering before it even began. He faced the possibility of being dropped by the label. Fortunately, fate intervened in 1951 when the renowned orchestra leader Percy Faith randomly selected “Because of You” from a pile of sheet music for Bennett to record.
The intriguing story behind “Because of You” adds another layer to its significance. It was co-written by Arthur Hammerstein, the lesser-known uncle of the famous lyricist Oscar Hammerstein II, who famously collaborated with Richard Rodgers. Alongside Arthur, Dudley Wilkinson contributed to the composition. Initially, the song failed to make an impact, despite its association with the Hammerstein name. However, Faith’s chance selection changed the course of its destiny. He wisely advised Bennett to relax, utilize his natural voice, and sing the song sincerely. This guidance proved invaluable. Prior to this revelation, Bennett had been experimenting with a more excessive, overwrought style. Through their decision to pursue an honest and heartfelt approach, Bennett and Faith discovered the true essence of “Because of You.”
Bennett infused his eventful young life, filled with childhood hardships and the horrors of war, into the poignant melody of “Because of You.” Faith’s orchestra perfectly complemented Bennett’s trembling voice and ethereal cadence, influenced by his deep love for jazz. The gravity of his performance became evident when he sang the line, “And I can smile because of you.” Behind these simple words lay a profound subtext: the object of his affection served as the only force that could prevent his spirit from collapsing. The power of this love proved sufficient.
In his book “The B Side: The Death of Tin Pan Alley and the Rebirth of the Great American Song,” esteemed author Ben Yagoda rightfully recognizes Bennett as “the most justly celebrated singer of standards.” Yet, when Bennett first recorded “Because of You,” both the song and the artist were virtually unknown. This obscurity did not persist for long. The single quickly surpassed a million sales, permeating jukeboxes in sandwich shops and radios in living rooms across the nation. Subsequently, Bennett titled his debut album “Because of You,” which laid the foundation for his rise to prominence and signaled the resurgence of mature pop music, appealing to a more world-weary audience rather than fleeting teenage trends.
Similar to his friend Sinatra and many other contemporaries, Bennett reluctantly succumbed to the commercial pressures of rock music, albeit briefly. In his memoir, “The Good Life,” he admits feeling disillusioned when rock began dominating the pop charts in the 1960s. His albums from 1970, “Tony Sings the Great Hits of Today!” and “Tony Bennett’s ‘Something’,” featured lackluster interpretations of songs by the Beatles and Stevie Wonder. However, this marked a low point for Bennett, prompting him to recommit to his love for jazz. He embraced his passion, even as the jazz industry veered towards fusion-heavy sounds in the 70s. Importantly, Bennett remained steadfast in his dedication to “Because of You.” The song held a permanent place in his live performances and garnered immense admiration from fans, serving as a tender reminder of the timeless beauty and warmth he possessed even in his youth.
As the decades progressed, Bennett experienced a resurgence in popularity, ultimately reclaiming his status as a beloved artist by the turn of the century. “Because of You” played a significant role in this revival. His collaboration with k. d. lang on this song propelled his 2006 album, “Duets: An American Classic,” to platinum-selling success. Furthermore, this collaboration paved the way for Bennett’s final chapter in a decorated career, wherein he collaborated with younger artists like Amy Winehouse and Lady Gaga. Through these partnerships, he ensured his lasting impact for generations to come.
Although Bennett may not have predicted that “Because of You” would serve as his swan song, it undeniably acted as a fitting bookend to his remarkable career. Even if it had been his sole hit, the song would have resonated with its profound emotional depth. In the ebb and flow of history, “Because of You” both inaugurated and concluded Bennett’s journey as a star. Additionally, thanks to Bennett’s enduring contributions, popular music possesses a treasure trove of timeless melodies that continue to evoke romance and captivate audiences.
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