Tony Bennett, The Man Frank Sinatra Called, "The Best Singer In The Business", Sadly Passed Away At The Age of 96 Today

Sky News - "For my money, Tony Bennett is the best singer in the business."

Coming from Frank Sinatra himself, in an interview in 1965, there could be no higher compliment.

Sinatra was a huge influence on Bennett, who has died aged 96.

The pair had become firm friends and went on to perform together several times over the years.

Bennett was the younger singer - Sinatra died in May 1998 at the age of 82. 

Bennett said his idol's words in that 1965 article changed his career.

Two years earlier, a then 36-year-old Bennett had picked up his first Grammy for his signature song I Left My Heart In San Francisco.

In 2022, almost 60 years later, the pop and jazz singer was awarded his 20th, sharing the honour with his superstar collaborator Lady Gaga - at the tender age of 95.

During a career in entertainment spanning eight decades, Bennett was one of the last of America's great crooners - one who achieved the rare feat of only seeming to grow in popularity in later life.

With more than 70 albums to his name, he is perhaps the only artist ever to have had new albums charting in the US in the 1950s, '60s, '70s, '80s, '90s, 2000s, 2010s and 2020s - and in 2014, he broke his own record as the oldest living artist to hit the top of the weekly Billboard 200 album chart.

Performing well into his 90s, even after being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2016, Bennett was an entertainer beloved by all generations; Gaga was just one of the modern-day artists he collaborated with in later years.

"To me, life is a gift, and it's a blessing to just be alive," Tony Bennett, real name Anthony Dominick Benedetto, once said.

(It's wild to me that back in the day Italians had to change their names and make them more American in order to get a fair shot in show business. Like Dino Paul Crocetti aka Dean Martin.)

It was a quote Bennett became known for, the title of one of his memoirs, and one he used again when he went public about his illness in 2021.

"Life is a gift - even with Alzheimer's," was the message shared on his social media accounts in February 2021.

Later that year, he performed his final farewell shows.

Bennedetto/Bennett's story is pretty amazing. Born to a family of immigrants in in Astoria, Queens, New York. His journey into the world of music began at an early age when he sang with the local church choir. After serving in the Army during World War II, he decided to pursue his passion for singing. His powerful voice and impeccable phrasing soon caught the attention of music executives, leading to a recording contract. 

In the 1950s and '60s, Bennett emerged as a leading figure in the Golden Era of Jazz. He mesmerized audiences with timeless classics like "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," 

"The Way You Look Tonight," 

and "Fly Me to the Moon." 

His rich, velvety tone combined with heartfelt emotions resonated with listeners, making him a favorite among both music enthusiasts and fellow musicians, like Old Blue Eyes. 

Throughout his illustrious career, Tony Bennett collaborated with an array of musical legends, forming extraordinary partnerships that transcended genres and generations. From Frank Sinatra to Lady Gaga, Bennett's ability to blend his distinctive style with various artists showcased his adaptability and unmatched talent. These collaborations served as a testament to his commitment to the art of music, where unity and mutual respect paved the way for remarkable performances.

The fact Frank Sinatra, a huge fan of himself, heaped so much praise on Bennett says all that needs to be said about the mans talent. The fact one of the biggest pop stars on the planet, Lady Gaga, called him "my musical companion" and her hero decades later when he was in his 90s just further reaffirms it. (She actually went so far as to say she wanted to quit music altogether but Bennett "saved her life" and helped change her mind.)

His authenticity and humility endeared him to fans, making him an inspiration not just as a musician but also as a human being. His music served as a bridge between generations, unifying people from different walks of life with the universal language of melody. His timeless songs and masterful performances will continue to resonate with future generations, ensuring that his spirit lives on through the power of music.

Rest in Peace.

p.s. - rear ad did a blog on this a couple years ago but the "60 minutes" piece they did on bennett is a must watch

Tony Bennett has had quite a life. WWII hero. Addiction survivor. Iconic entertainer for decades. And Cooper's terrific story just adds to his legend. This is a beautiful, sad, life-affirming, and ultimately uplifting segment about the power of music, friendship, and love. Take 13 minutes out of your day to watch it.