Tony Bennett, whose real name is Anthony Dominick Benedetto, is an American singer of traditional pop standards, big band, show tunes, and jazz, who has enjoyed a career that spans more than seven decades. Born on August 3, 1926, in Queens, New York, Bennett served in the United States Army during World War II before forging his path in the music industry. He was discovered by Pearl Bailey and subsequently signed to Columbia Records in the early 1950s after Bob Hope noticed him in a nightclub and suggested he adopt the stage name "Tony Bennett." Bennett achieved his first hit in 1951 with "Because of You," and his career took off with a string of successful recordings.

Tony Bennett is perhaps best known for his signature song "I Left My Heart In San Francisco," which secured him his first Grammy Award in 1962 and has since become an indelible classic. Over the years, he has maintained his relevance by staying true to his musical style and by collaborating with contemporary artists, exemplified by his joint albums with jazz pianist Bill Evans and more recently, his collaborations with Lady Gaga, including the critically acclaimed "Love Is Here To Stay." Bennett's smooth vocals and phrasing, along with his commitment to the Great American Songbook, have made him an icon of American music. Despite being diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease, Bennett continued to perform until his official retirement in 2021, leaving behind a rich legacy that encapsulates the essence of an era where vocal prowess and emotive storytelling reigned supreme in music.

Genres

Adult Standards

Easy Listening

Lounge

Vocal Jazz

Related Artists

Frank Sinatra

Michael Bublé

Dean Martin

Nat King Cole

Ella Fitzgerald

Sammy Davis Jr.

Rod Stewart

Mel Tormé

Barbra Streisand

Bobby Darin

Diana Krall

Josh Groban

Latest Release

The Tony Bennett / Bill Evans Album

Tony Bennett•

Bill Evans

Album - 9 Tracks - Released December 15, 2023