Musicians Mourn Tony Bennett, Dead At 96

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.

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.

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.

Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi additionally shared some words about the late singer, who was a personal friend to her.

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.

Tributes From The Music Community

Keith Richards of the Rolling Stones shared a photo with the late Bennett, commenting on his admirable work ethic.

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.

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.

Brooke Shields additionally shared photos of a collaboration between the two of them, complimenting his kind heart.

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.

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.”

Gaga is yet to comment on Bennett’s passing. Funeral arrangements are to be announced.

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