Music legend Tony Bennett has passed away at the age of 96. Born Anthony Dominick Benedetto, the singer revolutionized pop and jazz music with his iconic songs such as The Way You Look Tonight, Body and Soul and (I Left My Heart) In San Francisco. Spanning an unprecedented eight decades in the industry, Bennett collaborated with star performers such as Lady Gaga, Aretha Franklin, Frank Sinatra, and won a total of 20 Grammys – including a lifetime achievement award.
As one of the world’s most beloved crooners, Bennett’s velvety yet powerful voice was adored by fans across generations. His timeless pop hits followed by show tunes and big band numbers unified listeners from every corner of the globe – a phenomenon he diligently maintained throughout his career which was only further enhanced in the 1980s and 1990s, when Grammy Awards flooded in for the singing sensation who was then already in his sixties.
Bennett’s death was confirmed by publicist Sylvia Weiner in a statement to the Associated Press. He will be dearly missed by all, forever remembered and celebrated for the joy he brought to our lives through his music.
In 2008, the Independent caught up with Tony Bennett to discuss his recent success. With a sagely approach, Bennett asserted that good music transcends age: “I’m not concerned with whether someone who listens to me is old or young. In fact, in many ways, I’m not interested in the young at all.” The late Duke Ellington had argued to him that it is quality rather than categorization which determines longevity. His poignant words remain true today as people continue to listen to ‘good songs, great songs, written by the best songwriters’ from Bennett’s discography.
Despite being diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2016, the star continued on with vigor, closing out his career with a series of shows alongside Lady Gaga in 2021. Thus, Tony Bennett’s musical journey has come full circle, proving that timeless artistry can never be forgotten.