Celebrities and music fans throughout the world are paying tribute to Tony Bennett, who died this morning at 96 years old. The singer had recently wrapped up his outstanding, decades-long career with two farewell performances co-headlined with Lady Gaga at New York City’s Radio City Music Hall in August 2021.
“Tony Bennett, born Anthony Dominick Benedetto in Astoria, Queens on Aug. 3, 1926, has passed away in his hometown of New York City at the age of 96 earlier today,” his rep said in a statement to People. “The beloved singer, who was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2016, is survived by his wife, Susan Benedetto, his two sons, Danny and Dae Bennett, his daughters Johanna Bennett and Antonia Bennett and 9 grandchildren.”
Loved ones, friends, and fans are now remembering the icon and reflecting on his legacy on social media. Ahead, see the touching posts.
Susan Benedetto and Danny Bennett
The late singer's wife and son shared a touching joint statement through his official Instagram account, along with a picture of the jazz icon during one of his final shows.
"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," they wrote. "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."
Carole King
“RIP Tony Bennett. Such a big loss. Deepest sympathy to his family and the world,” the iconic songwriter wrote on Instagram.
Viola Davis
The actor shared a clip looking back at the legendary musician’s life and career. “Well....your journey was complete sir. Your greatness was not just measured by your talent but your influence. Generations will be inspired by your work. The angels are rejoicing today by gaining a magnificent choir member. May flights of angels......❤️❤️❤️❤️” she wrote.
Michael Bublé
The singer shared a picture of himself with the jazz legend, along with an emotional caption.
"Tony Bennett is one of the greatest vocalists, storytellers and interpreters of all time," Bublé wrote. "To say he was an important part of who I became is an understatement. My grandpa was constantly playing Tony Bennett records when I was growing up, and it was the honor of a lifetime to learn from him. Having my hero take me under his wing was one of the greatest moments of my life and my career. How did I get so lucky to kneel at the feet of the master for 2 decades?
"Tony, I’ll never stop learning from you, and I promise you I’ll do my best to keep the music we cherish alive. Rest in peace," he concluded.
Elton John
The pop legend shared a picture of himself and the jazz icon, and shared his condolences.
"So sad to hear of Tony’s passing. Without doubt the classiest singer, man, and performer you will ever see. He’s irreplaceable. I loved and adored him. Condolences to Susan, Danny and the family," he wrote.
Flea
The Red Hot Chili Peppers bassist wrote, “i love the immortal Tony Bennett, what a dude, what a class act, what a singer. so grateful to have shared a stage with him. a beautiful human being.”
Nile Rodgers
Josh Gad
The Broadway star and Frozen actor wrote, “This one shouldn’t sting so much because any of us would take 96 years, but man is it hard to imagine a world without the great Tony Bennett.”
Fran Drescher
“Tis [with great] sadness, we say farewell to the late great Tony Bennett. He exemplified a person who was good as gold, sweet like sugar & a deeply feeling, empathic human being. I wish more had the stuff you were made of Tony. RIP,” the actor and SAG-AFTRA president wrote.
Bernice King
The minister and daughter of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. honored Bennett’s legacy of civil rights activism. “Goodnight, #TonyBennett. Thank you for your commitment to love, civil rights, and a better world,” she wrote.
Dan Rather
The journalist wrote, “Many people are called legends. Few embodied the word like Tony Bennett. His voice. His presence. HIs style. He was timely and timeless. He had an otherworldly talent of coaxing the sublime out of the music he sang. But he was also a consummate craftsman and tireless worker. He earned his longevity and we all benefited from it. He will be missed.”
George Takei
“The great Tony Bennett has passed away at the age of 96. He was the last of his kind, a master of the American songbook. He may have left his Heart in San Francisco, but he won all of our hearts, from Sinatra to Lady Gaga. Be at peace, and sing to us now from the stars, Tony,” the actor wrote.
Rex Chapman
The former basketball player shared a black-and-white clip of a young Bennett singing his signature song, “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.” He wrote alongside the clip, “An incredible life. Rest in peace…”
Quinci LeGardye is an LA-based freelance writer who covers culture, politics, and mental health through a Black feminist lens. When she isn’t writing or checking Twitter, she’s probably watching the latest K-drama or giving a concert performance in her car.
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