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Tony Bennett

Birth Place: Astoria, NY, USA

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BIO

Tony Bennett has been on the front lines of every major issue impacting the cornerstones of this country’s modern history. He has performed for eleven U.S. Presidents, is a World War II veteran who fought in the Battle of the Bulge and participated in the liberation of a concentration camp, and marched side by side with Dr. Martin Luther King in Selma to support civil rights. Throughout his life, Tony Bennett has been a dedicated pacifist and proactive humanitarian selflessly supporting many causes whose goals benefit the lives of millions. His love for his country has earned him the distinction of national treasure and the United Nations has named him a Citizen of the World as one of their foremost ambassadors.



The essence of his longevity and high artistic achievement was imbued in him in his loving, childhood home in the Astoria section of Queens where he was born on August 3, 1926. His father died when Tony was 10 and his mother, Anna, raised Tony and his older brother and sister, John and Mary, in a home surrounded by loving relatives who were Tony’s first fans, filling him with encouragement and optimism. He attended the High School of Industrial Arts in Manhattan, where he continued nurturing his two passions: singing and painting. From the radio, he developed a love of music hearing Bing Crosby, Louis Armstrong, and James Durante.

As a teenager, Tony sang while waiting on tables and then enlisted in the Army during World War II and while in Europe he performed with military bands. He later had vocal studies at the American Theatre Wing School. The first time Bennett sang in a nightclub was in 1946 when he sat in with trombonist Tyree Glenn at the Shangri-La in Astoria. Bennett’s big break came in 1949 when comedian Bob Hope noticed him working with Pearl Bailey in Greenwich Village in New York City.

With millions of records sold world-wide and platinum and gold albums to his credit, Bennett has received nineteen Grammy Awards—including a 1995 Grammy for Record of the Year for his MTV Unplugged CD which introduced this American master to a whole new generation—and the Grammy Lifetime Award. His initial successes came via a string of Columbia singles in the early 1950s, including such chart-toppers as “Because of You,” “Rags to Riches,” and a remake of Hank Williams’ “Cold, Cold Heart.” He had 24 songs in the Top 40, including “I Wanna Be Around,” “The Good Life,” “Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me),” and his signature song, “I Left My Heart In San Francisco,” which garnered him two Grammy Awards.

Tony Bennett is one of a handful of artists to have new albums charting in the ’50s, ’60s, ’70s, ’80s, ’90s, and now in the first two decades of the 21st century. He has introduced a multitude of songs into the Great American Songbook that have since become standards for pop music. He has toured the world to sold-out audiences with rave reviews whenever he performs. Bennett re-signed with Columbia Records in 1986 and released the critically acclaimed The Art of Excellence. Since his 1991 show-stopping performance at the Grammy Awards of “When Do The Bells Ring For Me," from his Astoria album, he has received a string of Grammy Awards for releases including Stepping Out, Perfectly Frank, and MTV Unplugged.

In the new millennium, Bennett’s artistry and popularity was higher than ever. In 2006, the year of his 80th birthday, his Duets: An American Classic was released. The album—which included performances with Paul McCartney, Elton John, Barbra Streisand, Bono, and others—won three Grammy Awards and went on to be one of the best-selling CDs of the year and Tony’s career. Bennett’s first Duets album also inspired the Rob Marshall-directed television special Tony Bennett: An American Classic, which won seven Emmys making it the most honored program at the 2007 Emmy Awards. In celebration of his 85th birthday in 2011 the release of Bennett’s highly anticipated, Duets II, featured Tony performing with a new roster of celebrated artists including, the late Amy Winehouse (her last recording was their duet of “Body and Soul”), Michael Bublé, Aretha Franklin, Josh Groban, Lady Gaga, John Mayer, and many others. Duets II debuted at #1 on the Billboard Album charts, making Tony the only artist at the age of 85 to achieve this in the history of recorded music. Bennett won two Grammys for Duets II in the 2012 Grammy ceremony and that year marked the 50th Anniversary of the recording and release of his signature song, “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.” A documentary entitled, The Zen of Bennett, which was created and conceived by Danny Bennett, Tony’s son and manager, was premiered at the Tribeca Film Festival 2012. At the end of 2012, Bennett also authored his fourth book, the New York Times bestseller, Life is a Gift, which highlights his personal philosophies learned throughout his life and career. Tony’s collaborative jazz album with Lady Gaga, released in 2014, Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga: Cheek To Cheek, debuted at #1 on the Billboard Top 200 album charts, making Bennett, at the age of 88, the oldest artist to have a #1 album—breaking his own previously established historical record. “Cheek To Cheek” won a Grammy in the Best Traditional Pop Vocal category. Bennett’s 2015 release, The Silver Lining: The Songs of Jerome Kern won a Grammy for Best Traditional Pop Vocal album.

On August 3rd 2016, Tony Bennett celebrated his 90th birthday which was marked by the lighting of the Empire State Building in honor of his musical legacy along with a star-studded celebration at the famed Rainbow Room. Later that year NBC aired a two-hour prime time special, Tony Bennett Celebrates 90: The Best is Yet to Come, which featured performances by Lady Gaga, Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, Bob Dylan, Michael Bublé, and many more. Columbia Records released a companion CD to the television special, and Tony’s fifth book was published, Just Getting Started.

Tony Bennett became a Kennedy Center Honoree in 2005, was named an NEA Jazz Master in January of 2006, a Citizen of the World award from the United Nations, and a Billboard Magazine Century Award in honor of his outstanding contributions to music. In November 2017, the Library of Congress will present Tony with The Gershwin Prize, marking the first time the honor has been bestowed upon an “interpretive singer” as, to that date, it had only been given to composers.

Tony Bennett is a dedicated painter whose interest in art began as a child. He continues to paint every day, even as he tours internationally. He has exhibited his work in galleries around the world. The United Nations has commissioned him for two paintings, including one for their 50th anniversary. His original painting, “Homage to Hockney,” is on permanent display at the Butler Institute of American Art, and the landmark National Arts Club in New York is home to Tony’s painting “Boy on Sailboat, Sydney Bay.” Three of his paintings are part of the Smithsonian Museums permanent collections, including his portrait of his friend Duke Ellington that became part of the National Portrait Gallery’s collection in 2009.

Throughout his career, Tony Bennett has always put his heart and time into humanitarian concerns. He has raised millions of dollars for the Juvenile Diabetes Foundation, which established a research fund in his name. His original paintings each year grace the cover of the American Cancer Society’s annual holiday greeting card, proceeds from which are earmarked for cancer research. He is active in environmental concerns and social justice. He marched with Dr. King in the historical Selma-to-Montgomery Civil Rights movement, and the Martin Luther King Center in Atlanta bestowed upon him their Salute to Greatness Award for his efforts in fighting racial discrimination.

Tony Bennett died on July 21, 2023 at age 96.

Photos

STAGE CREDITS

[Broadway]
1993
Performer

[Broadway]
Concert [Broadway], 1974
Performer

[Broadway]
1974
Performer


Movies

The Marriage-Go-Round
[ 1961 ] Self - Vocalist - Title Song - Voice
Freedom Spectacular
[ 1964 ]
The Oscar
[ 1966 ] Hymie Kelly
Tony & Lena
[ 1973 ]
I'm Dancing as Fast as I Can
[ 1982 ] ("I Guess I'll Have to Change My Plan")
Abbey Lincoln: You Gotta Pay the Band
[ 1993 ]
An American Reunion: The People's Inaugural Celebration
[ 1993 ]
The Scout
[ 1994 ] Tony Bennett
Analyze This
[ 1999 ] Tony Bennett
Christmas Dream
[ 2000 ]
Bruce Almighty
[ 2003 ] Tony Bennett
Movies Rock
[ 2007 ]
Bee Gees: In Our Own Time
[ 2010 ]
Tony Bennett Duets 2: The Great Performances
[ 2012 ]
Bruce's Hall of Fame
[ 2014 ]
Muppets Most Wanted
[ 2014 ] Tony Bennett
Real Change: Artists for Education
[ 2014 ]
Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga: Cheek to Cheek Live!
[ 2014 ]
Glastonbury Golden Greats
[ 2015 ]
International Jazz Day
[ 2015 ]
International Jazz Day 10th Anniversary Celebration
[ 2021 ]

TV Shows

The Danny Thomas Show
Cousin Stephen
77 Sunset Strip
Maximillian
The Doris Day Show
Tony Bennett
King
Tony Bennett
Remington Steele
Tony Bennett
Evening Shade
Tony Lombardi
Cybill
Tony Bennett
Suddenly Susan
Tony Bennett
Cosby
Tony Bennett
Christmas in Vienna
Entourage
Tony Bennett
Blue Bloods
Tony Bennett
30 Rock
Tony Bennett
The Simpsons
[ 1990-2013 ] Tony Bennett, Capital City Singer
Wallykazam!
Bobgoblin's Singing Voice

Videos

News


TONY BENNETT: HIS WORDS AND MUSIC is Now Available for Booking

The Tony Bennett Tribute Show, 'Tony Bennett: His Words and Music,' is now available for booking after a successful run at New York City's GreenRoom 42, marking the first anniversary of his passing.
Michael Feinstein to Perform at The Luckman Fine Arts Complex's 30th Anniversary Gala

Michael Feinstein will perform a tribute to Tony Bennett at The Luckman Fine Arts Complex's 30th anniversary gala, featuring the Carnegie Hall Ensemble and the Luckman Jazz Orchestra. Learn how to purchase tickets.
Birdland Jazz Club and Birdland Theater Releases October 2024 Programming

Birdland Jazz Club and Birdland Theater has announced their October 2024 lineup featuring performances by John Pizzarelli, Stacey Kent, and the Mingus Big Band.
Feature: BroadwayWorld Cabaret Upcoming Show Roundup �" Sept. 23 to Sept. 29, 2024

Are you trying to plan your entertainment for the week or looking for a fun show to see this weekend? We have you covered with a few top picks for jazz, cabaret, comedy, and more! NYC has so many incredible events, but here are a few top picks to consider this week including Cheyenne Jackson's Signs of Life, musical comedy and John Cameron Mitchell
McCarter Theatre Center 2024-25 Presented Programming Season Begins

McCarter Theatre Center has begun its highly anticipated 2024-2025 Presenting Season, offering a blend of perennial favorites and exciting cutting-edge talent.
Fox Cities P.A.C. Expands Rush Ticket Program To Include Offers For More Community Members

 The Fox Cities Performing Arts Center  has announced an expansion of its Rush Ticket Program for more community members to enjoy the live performing arts.
Hershey Symphony Premieres “Tony Bennett�"The Official Musical Celebration”

The Hershey Symphony has announced the U.S. debut of the all-new official production “Tony Bennett: The Official Musical Celebration,” a spectacular live show honoring the life and music of Tony Bennett, on Saturday, October 26, 2024, at 7:30 PM.
Chris Pinnella, 12-Piece Big Band Project Will Debut at Newtown Theatre

Join platinum selling recording artist Chris Pinnella as he brings his 12-Piece Big Band Project to the newly renovated Newtown Theatre on Sunday September 29th. The afternoon will boast an all new setlist of songs played through brilliantly by Pinnella's stellar 12-Piece Big Band in their Newtown, PA debut.
Fantoons Releases Graphic Novel on the Life of Henry Mancini

Equally engaging is the biographical tale of celebrated, award-winning composer, Henry Mancini, The Extraordinary Life of Henry Mancini, a beautifully illustrated tribute from award-winning animation studio, Fantoons.
Dee Dee Bridgewater and Bill Charlap Come to the Wharton Center

When Grammy-winning singer Dee Dee Bridgewater and Grammy-winning pianist Bill Charlap take the stage, an unforgettable experience awaits. With a repertoire that spans the greatest periods and genres in music, this dynamic duo delivers masterful performances of beloved songbook standards.
Spotlight: FEINSTEIN/FALL EVENTS at Jorgensen Center for the Performing Arts

JORGENSEN: Look what’s in Storrs for You this Fall!
Lineup Revealed For Jazz Series at Dr. Phillips Center

The lineup has been announced for the Jazz Series at Dr. Phillips Center.​​​​​​​ Guests will immerse themselves in the world of Duke Ellington, Count Basie, Dizzy Gillespie, Thelonious Monk and others with the stylings of today’s most celebrated Jazz musicians.
Jim Caruso's Cast Party Returns to Los Angeles in November

Jim Caruso’s Cast Party will return to the West Coast for one very special night, Wednesday, November 6 at 8:30.  The “extreme open mic” will take place at Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood.
Monthly BIRTHDAY SALUTE to a Major Cabaret Figure

A major, long-time cabaret figure gets our monthly birthday Tribute. How many hints will you need to know who it is?
I LEFT MY HEART - A SALUTE TO THE MUSIC OF TONY BENNETT

Rocky Mountain Repertory Theatre will open I Left My Heart - A Salute to the Music of Tony Bennett on Friday, August 30th, at 8:00pm
Phillip Officer to Pay Tribute to Mabel Mercer in YOU FASCINATE ME SO at Birdland Theater

Phillip Officer will pay tribute to Mabel Mercer in 'You Fascinate Me So' at Birdland Theater. Learn how to purchase tickets.
Harris Center Presents MICHAEL FEINSTEIN In BECAUSE OF YOU: MY TRIBUTE TO TONY BENNETT

Harris Center for The Arts will present MICHAEL FEINSTEIN – Because of You: My Tribute to Tony Bennett featuring the Carnegie Hall Ensemble, a special evening with the Grammy nominated recording artist performing on Sunday, September 15 at 7:30pm.
Tributes to Heart, Jimmy Buffett & Tina Turner to be Presented at Feinstein's in Carmel

Feinstein’s Cabaret at Hotel Carmichael is honoring the talent of current and past musical greats. Learn more about the performances and see how to purchase tickets.
Klea Blackhurst to Present THE BOX SET at Chelsea Table + Stage

Klea Blackhurst will present 'The Box Set,' at Chelsea Table + Stage featuring her acclaimed tribute to Hoagy Carmichael alongside Billy Stritch. Learn how to purchase tickets.
Chris Botti to Perform at BBMan in February

Chris Botti will perform at BBMan in February 2025. Learn more about Botti and see how to purchase tickets.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How many Broadway shows has Tony Bennett been in?

Tony Bennett has appeared on Broadway in 3 shows.

How many West End shows has Tony Bennett been in?

Tony Bennett has not appeared in the West End.

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