Tony Bennett, the legendary singer, and performer, has died. He was 96.
Bennett died in his hometown of New York, but no cause has been released, although the singer was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2016.
"I enjoy entertaining the audience, making them forget their problems. I think people ... are touched if they hear something that's sincere and honest and maybe has a little sense of humor. ... I just like to make people feel good when I perform," said Bennett in 2006.
Born Anthony Dominick Benedetto on August 3, 1926, in Queens, New York, Bennett was known for his smooth and velvety voice and timeless interpretations of classics. His most well-known songs include "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," "Fly Me to the Moon," "The Way You Look Tonight," and "Steppin' Out With My Baby."
While serving in the army during World War II, Bennett began his musical career, and by the early 1950s he had gained popularity with his first hit "Because of You." He kept the momentum going throughout the decades that followed, keeping up with the times and working with contemporary artists such as Lady Gaga, Paul McCartney, Barbara Streisand, Elvis Costello, Amy Winehouse, and many more.
He is the recipient of numerous awards, including multiple Grammy Awards, Kennedy Center Honors, and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award.
Bennett was also an avid painter, with his work having been displayed in public and private collections, including the Smithsonian Museum of American Art.
"I love to paint as much as I love to sing," Bennett said in 2006. "It worked out to be such a blessing in my life because if I started getting burnt-out singing ... I would go to my painting and that's a big lift. ... So I stay in this creative zone all the time."
He is survived by his wife Susan Benedetto, his two sons, Danny and Dae Bennett, his daughters Johanna Bennett and Antonia Bennett, and nine grandchildren.
