For more than 70 years, Tony Bennett not only sang American standards; he also set many of them. His distinctive voice provided melody and rhythm as he resisted the need to change his appearance to match the times and sang about the wonderful life, how the best is yet to come, the way you look today, and leaving your heart in San Francisco.
He began his career as a singing waiter in New York City and went on to become one of the country’s most well-known entertainers, selling tens of millions of records and gaining a following that spanned several generations. He never had trouble attracting new fans and colleagues, which is a sign of a truly timeless artist.
He experienced history along the way. At a Dachau subcamp, he assisted in the release of inmates. He joined the 1965 Selma to Montgomery civil rights march. He collaborated on songs with everyone from the Count Basie Orchestra to Lady Gaga, and he performed for John F. Kennedy, Nelson Mandela, and Queen Elizabeth II. He got his stage name from Bob Hope. His role model was Frank Sinatra. There is no denying that Tony Bennett lived a legendary life. And his contributions to American art will live on.
Tony’s music has long been a favorite of Jill and mine, not just for the beauty of his voice but also for the joy he brought to everything he performed. We offer his family and all of his admirers our sincere condolences.
Tony Bennett was a legendary songwriter and performer who won over many fans, according to a tweet from Obama.
Tony Bennett was an iconic songwriter and entertainer who charmed generations of fans. He was also a good man—Michelle and I will always be honored that he performed at my inauguration. We're thinking of his wife Susan, his kids, and everyone who is missing him today. pic.twitter.com/TglWTA06Zm
— Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 21, 2023
He was a good man as well, and Michelle and I will always be grateful that he sang at my swearing-in. His wife Susan, his children, and everyone else who is missing him today are in our thoughts.