Iconic musician Tony Bennett passed away at 96 years old. Bennett’s career spanned across seven decades, with his timeless jazz infused songs remaining a mainstay in music across generational lines. The legendary crooner suffered from Alzheimer’s Disease, as confirmed by his wife Susan Benedetto in 2021. The singer’s longtime publicist Sylvia Weiner announced his passing on social media.
Tony left us today but he was still singing the other day at his piano and his last song was, “Because of You,” his first #1 hit.
Tony, because of you we have your songs in our heart forever. ❤ pic.twitter.com/hsOqtSdTNg
— Tony Bennett (@itstonybennett) July 21, 2023
The singer was born in 1926 in Queens, New York. His full name was Anthony Dominick Benedetto, later shortened for the stage to Tony Bennett. Throughout his lengthy career, he won 20 Grammy awards. Outside of music, Bennett was a lifelong Democrat, according to the New York Times. The singer was notably present at the March on Selma and several other notable efforts in the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s.
RIP in 2023: Harry Belafonte and Tony Bennett.
With the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. at the “Stars for Freedom” rally on the night before the Selma march arrived in Montgomery.
March 24, 1965. Photo by Charles Moore. pic.twitter.com/qR0Hz93v0t
— The '60s at 60 (@the_60s_at_60) July 21, 2023
It is because of this background that he was chosen to sing at former President Barack Obama’s inauguration. Obama was the first Black U.S. president. Today, Obama mourns the loss of the impactful singer.
Tony Bennett was an iconic songwriter and entertainer who charmed generations of fans. He was also a good man—Michelle and I will always be honored that he performed at my inauguration. We're thinking of his wife Susan, his kids, and everyone who is missing him today. pic.twitter.com/TglWTA06Zm
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 21, 2023
Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi additionally shared some words about the late singer, who was a personal friend to her.
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Tony Bennett was a national treasure: an extraordinarily gifted singer, a great humanitarian and a true American patriot.
Personally, Tony was my dear friend, with whom it was my privilege to share many special moments. pic.twitter.com/MqaBT7EqkV— Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) July 21, 2023
Prior to his work with the Civil Rights Movement, Bennett served in World War II. During his deployment in Germany, he was a part of the troops that liberated the Landsberg concentration camp, a sub-camp of Dachau, one of the most deadly camps from the Holocaust. Jewish fans mourn the loss of Bennett, as not only a memorable musician, but a fervent ally to several communities.
At World War II's conclusion, Tony Bennett was involved in the liberation of a Nazi concentration camp near Landsberg, where some American prisoners of war from the 63rd Division had also been held. pic.twitter.com/KbWszRvt9d
— Eric Alper ???? (@ThatEricAlper) July 21, 2023
As the world mourns Tony Bennett, the incredible vocalist, one should honor the fact that Tony was among the young men that liberated Dachau, playing a part in saving the lives of thousands of Jews, including Elie Wiesel, R Lau, and many more.
May his family & fans find comfort. pic.twitter.com/75CO15M0iy
— Rabbi S Litvin (@BluegrassRabbi) July 21, 2023
Tributes From The Music Community
Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones shared a photo with the late Bennett, commenting on his admirable work ethic.
Video 2016 (Keith Richards archives) pic.twitter.com/qIrkCZub4k
— Keith Richards (@officialKeef) July 21, 2023
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The Prince of Darkness himself, Ozzy Osbourne, additionally joined in sending condolences to Bennett’s family, sharing a photo with him. Bennett’s ability to collaborate with artists across such a wide array of genres is a further testament to the staying power of his career.
Very sad to hear about Tony Bennett’s passing. Rest in Peace pic.twitter.com/Q0OTK5OJfC
— Ozzy Osbourne (@OzzyOsbourne) July 21, 2023
Pop star Mariah Carey also shared images of some of her fondest memories performing alongside Bennett. The singer is credited as one of the most timeless songwriters of the 20th century.
Rest in Peace Tony Bennett. It was such an honor to work with one of the world's most beloved, respected and legendary singers of the past century. We will miss you ❤️ pic.twitter.com/avn8K4CcgM
— Mariah Carey (@MariahCarey) July 21, 2023
Brooke Shields additionally shared photos of a collaboration between the two of them, complimenting his kind heart.
You will be forever missed, Tony. Your legacy will live on forever, not just for your music, but for your painting and for your heart. I adore you. May you rest easy. #tonybennett @itstonybennett pic.twitter.com/waOWg67DDn
— Brooke Shields (@BrookeShields) July 21, 2023
Bennett notably collaborated extensively with fellow Grammy winner Lady Gaga. The pair bonded over their shared Italian-American heritage and love of music. Their inter-generational friendship captured the hearts of music fans far and wide, and brought Bennett’s music to a Gen Z and millennial audience.
Here are the best moments from Tony Bennett and @ladygaga’s friendship. The superstar duo made music magic together. ❤️https://t.co/twNY4LCYGE pic.twitter.com/XMiZzhsDAo
— Good Morning America (@GMA) July 21, 2023
Bennett’s final public performance was in August 2021 alongside Gaga at New York City’s Radio City Music Hall. Here, the singer sang one of his biggest hits for the last time, “I Left My Heart In San Francisco.”
RIP Tony Bennett, an American legend, the embodiment of heart and soul in popular music, a class act to the end. Here he is performing “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” one last time at New York’s Radio City Music Hall, part of his evening with Lady Gaga: pic.twitter.com/Wpba3O60Iy
— Isaac Feldberg (@isaacfeldberg) July 21, 2023
Tony Bennett (battling with Alzheimer’s) said Lady Gaga’s name for the first time at their last concert together. this was a special moment for both of them. #RIPTonyBennett pic.twitter.com/62oXbXekB6
— ً (@keaaaaley) July 21, 2023
Gaga is yet to comment on Bennett’s passing. Funeral arrangements are to be announced.
