One of America's greatest performers ever has passed away. Tont Bennett was 96, and had suffered from Alzheimer's disease through most of his 90's. Most famous for his crooning classics like "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," Tony found success again late in life as he was embraced by younger generations. His 2011 "Duets" Album is a true classic. Even at age 84, he sounded great singing with talented performers like Lady Gaga. Check out a few tracks from that album below.
Personally, I saw Tony in concert twice. The first time was at the Warwick Musical Theater around 1994. My wife and I sat in the balcony with my Godparents, Peg and Bill who were of Tony's generation. We were in awe the whole night. In his late 60's then, he still had all the range and power that he ever had. In fact, at one point he put down the mic and sang a couple of songs acapella in that unique and intimate setting of the Warwick Musical Theater. It blew us away. Tony was a favorite of the Bonoff family who owned "the Tent." He was a true gentleman and an amazing talent.
The second time we saw him, Tony was part of a star-studded program put on by our iHeart sister station, Lite-FM in New York City around 2002. The bill featured Tony, along with Barry Manilow, Carole King, and a very young Nora Jones. Tony was just as impressive at age 75 as he was the previous time we saw him.
Rest in peace, Tony Bennett. Heaven has a new crooner.
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