Tony Bennett, the legendary crooner who moved the world with his iconic vocals for more than seven decades, has sadly passed away.
His publicist Sylvia Weiner confirmed the news to the Associated Press. No cause of death has been shared however in 2021, it was announced the singer had been living with Alzheimer’s for several years.
In a statement posted to his official social media account, his team revealed that “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.”
The message ends, “Tony, because of you we have your songs in our heart forever.”
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Though he had many well-known songs including “Rags to Riches” and “I’ve Got You Under My Skin”, his signature and favourite tune was “I Left My Heart in San Francisco”.
Tony, who not-so-long ago charmed a new generation of fans through his collaborations with Lady Gaga, released more than 70 albums during his stellar career and won 19 GRAMMYs, plus a Lifetime Achievement Award. Interestingly, he earned almost all of them (except two) after he turned 60!
“Without doubt the classiest singer, man, and performer you will ever see,” Sir Elton John posted on social media following the news. “He’s irreplaceable. I loved and adored him.”
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Singer Carole King also shared her love for the late singer: “Such a big loss. Deepest sympathy to his family and the world.”
Meanwhile, Michael Bublé said Tony was a huge inspiration and mentor:
“Tony Bennett is one of the greatest vocalists, storytellers and interpreters of all time. To say he was an important part of who I became is an understatement. My grandpa was constantly playing Tony Bennett records when I was growing up, and it was the honour of a lifetime to learn from him. Having my hero take me under his wing was one of the greatest moments of my life and my career. How did I get so lucky to kneel at the feet of the master for 2 decades?”
He adds, “Tony, I’ll never stop learning from you, and I promise you I’ll do my best to keep the music we cherish alive. Rest in peace.”
Tony was 96 years old. He is survived by his wife Susan Benedetto, and his four children from a previous marriage.
(Feature Image Credit: Lev Radin/Shutterstock.com)
