Tony Bennett (1926-2023), one of America’s most popular singers and entertainers, died on July 21 in New York City at the age of 96. He leaves a great musical legacy. However, many stars will also remember him as a good friend.
It’s sad to hear about Bennett’s death, writes British superstar Elton John (76) on a shared photo on Instagram. His colleague was “without a doubt the most stylish singer, man and performer you will ever see. He is irreplaceable. I loved and adored him.” Condolences were also expressed to John Bennett’s wife Susan, his son Danny and the entire family.
Meanwhile, US talk legend David Letterman (76) has published an old clip on Twitter in which Bennett sings the song “Everybody Has The Blues”. “A true talent, a true gentleman and a true friend,” mourns US politician and former First Lady Hillary Clinton (75) on Instagram. “We will miss you Tony – and thanks for all the memories.”
Rock musician Steven Van Zandt (72) describes Bennett as “the best of the best” and “the last of the legends”. His heart was as big as his voice. “Rest in peace to one of the best who has ever stood on the stage,” writes music colleague Joe Bonamassa (46). The best performance he’s ever had was a Bennett show in 2012: “He was the last of the greatest generation of singers and musicians.”
“Rest in peace, Tony,” says musician Harry Connick Jr. (55). “You changed the world with your voice,” he continues. “Thank you for always being so kind to me… I love you and I will miss you very much…”
The late singer is the best example of a person who was “as good as gold, as sweet as sugar and a deeply feeling, empathetic, human being,” says Fran Drescher (65), actress and president of the currently striking US actors’ union SAG-AFTRA. She wishes that more people were cut from the same cloth.
