Musician Paul Langosch found himself facing a difficult situation in 1999 when his wife, Michelle Dunn-Langosch, was diagnosed with lung cancer that had spread to her brain and spine. At the time, Langosch was on tour with renowned singer Tony Bennett as a bassist in his band. Langosch made the difficult decision to leave the tour to care for his wife, fearing that he would lose his place in the band. However, to his surprise, Bennett assured him that his spot would remain open for him when he was ready to return. Not only that, but Bennett continued to pay Langosch for the five months he took off to care for his wife, who was also battling multiple sclerosis.
Langosch expressed his gratitude for Bennett’s support, stating, “It was extraordinary. I just can’t forget something like that.” Even on the day of Bennett’s death at the age of 96, Langosch, speaking from his home in Chevy Chase, Md., was emotionally moved as he remembered the generosity shown to him all those years ago.
Langosch’s journey to playing with Bennett was a combination of chance and hard work. He started playing the bass as a child and continued to pursue it throughout his life. Through connections and dedication to his craft, Langosch eventually received a surprise call from Bennett’s road manager, offering him an opportunity to play a three-night run in Sacramento. Langosch seized the chance, impressing Bennett and ultimately earning a place in the band.
Although Langosch felt pressure playing alongside Bennett, who was already a superstar, he cherished the experience and admired Bennett’s talent. Langosch played with Bennett for a total of 20 years, witnessing the artist’s resurgence in the late 1980s and appreciating the emphasis Bennett placed on the quality of the music.
Beyond the music, Langosch grew to respect Bennett as a genuine and compassionate person. Bennett showed kindness to both his bandmates and strangers, and actively participated in civil rights activism, inspired by his experiences during World War II. During Langosch’s difficult time caring for his sick wife, Bennett supported him emotionally and financially, offering assistance and even paying for accommodations during hospital visits.
Following his wife’s passing, Langosch remained in Bennett’s band until 2008 when he retired from touring. Although he left the band, he continued to make music, performing at local venues and teaching jazz at Virginia Tech. He still appreciates the impact Bennett had on his life, describing him as “a real human being” who should be remembered for his generosity and compassion.
The story of Paul Langosch and Tony Bennett serves as a reminder of the profound impact one person’s kindness can have in a time of need. Through his actions, Bennett showed that true success is not just about talent and fame, but about being there for others and making a difference in their lives.
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