Legendary Singer Tony Bennett recently passed away on Friday, July 21 at the remarkable age of 96, just two weeks before his birthday. Although the exact cause of his death remains undisclosed, the 20-time Grammy awardee had been bravely battling Alzheimer’s disease since 2016.
After news of the singer’s passing broke, his widow, Susan Benedetto, and son Danny came together to release a joint statement via Instagram. “Thank you to all the fans, friends, and colleagues of Tony’s who celebrated his life and humanity and shared their love of him and his musical legacy,” the statement reads. “From his first performances as a singing waiter in Queens to his last performances in 2021 at Radio City Music Hall, Tony delighted in performing the songs he loved and making people happy. And as sad as today has been for all of us, we can find joy in Tony’s legacy forever.”
Bennett’s eldest son, who also served as his manager from 1979 until the singer’s retirement in 2021, paid a touching tribute to his late father in an interview with People. He fondly reminisced about the cherished moments they spent together, undoubtedly clinging tightly to the profound bond they shared throughout the years.
“Tony, my father, imbued the essence of the American dream. He taught us all that remarkable opportunities will reveal themselves and that anything is possible when you stick by your passion, believe in yourself, and dedicate your life to quality,” Danny confessed. “He was an artist, a humanitarian, and an inspiration to anyone who experienced his elegance and grace, he and I experienced an amazing journey together as father and son, and I’m simply proud and humble to have been a small part of his legacy.”
A wave of condolences flooded in from various celebrities, including Nile Rodgers, Flea of Red Hot Chilli Peppers, and Rev. Jesse Jackson, who have taken to their social media to pay their respects to the departed artist.
“Sending my prayers for and condolences to the family of #TonyBennett whose legendary career spanned seven decades,” Jackson wrote on Twitter. “He marched with us in 1964. He was dedicated to civil and human rights and to the arts. He will live as long as we remember him.” #IleftmyheartinSanFrancisco.”
“So sad to hear of Tony’s passing. Without doubt the classiest singer, man, and performer you will ever see. He’s irreplaceable,” Elton John commented. “I loved and adored him. Condolences to Susan, Danny, and the family,” while Nile Rodgers wrote, “My most heartfelt condolences go out to Tony Bennett’s family and friends, they’re also my emotional family and friends.”
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