NEW YORK — Tony Bennett, the legendary singer known for his timeless classics and iconic songs such as “I Left My Heart In San Francisco,” passed away on Friday at the age of 96. His publicist, Sylvia Weiner, confirmed his death in New York. While the specific cause was not disclosed, Bennett had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2016.
Bennett was renowned for his devotion to classic American songs and his ability to create new standards. He released over 70 albums throughout his career, earning him 19 competitive Grammys. Despite surviving the rock music era, Bennett continued to captivate audiences and collaborate with younger artists. In 2014, at the age of 88, he broke his own record as the oldest living performer with a No. 1 album on the Billboard 200 chart for his duets project with Lady Gaga, “Cheek to Cheek.”
One of Bennett’s most notable achievements was his contribution to exposing new audiences to the Great American Songbook. He believed that the songs of Cole Porter, Irving Berlin, and other great composers would never die. Bennett’s signature song, “I Left My Heart In San Francisco,” which catapulted his career during a lull period, was initially given to him by unknown songwriters George Cory and Douglass Cross. The song became a sensation, earning Bennett his first two Grammys, including record of the year.
Despite his success, Bennett remained humble and focused on entertaining his audience. His peers, including Frank Sinatra, often praised his unparalleled talent and ability to interpret songs. Bennett’s versatility allowed him to seamlessly transition between pop and jazz genres. His collaborations with various artists, such as Elvis Costello and k.d. lang, resulted in award-winning albums.
Beyond his musical accomplishments, Bennett played a significant role in his community. He established the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts in his hometown of Astoria, Queens, to provide opportunities for young artists. Bennett attributed his mother’s resilience and work ethic, as well as his experiences growing up during the Great Depression, to his success.
Tony Bennett’s impact on the music industry will forever be remembered. His ability to connect with audiences through his genuine and heartfelt performances solidified his status as one of the greatest singers of all time.