Anthony Dominick Benedetto, known professionally as Tony Bennett, was an American jazz and traditional pop singer whose career spanned over seven decades. Born on August 3, 1926, in Long Island City, Queens,
New York, Bennett became one of the most celebrated vocalists of his time, earning 20 Grammy Awards, including a Lifetime Achievement Award, and two Primetime Emmy Awards. He was also named a National Endowments for the Arts Jazz Master and a Kennedy Center Honoree. Bennett's influence extended beyond music; he founded the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts in Astoria, Queens, New York, and Exploring the Arts, a non-profit arts education program.
Origins & Early Influences
Tony Bennett was born to grocer John Benedetto and seamstress Anna (née Suraci) in Long Island City, Queens, New York. His father, who emigrated from Podargoni, a rural district of Reggio Calabria, Italy, instilled in him a love of art and literature. Bennett grew up listening to Al Jolson, Eddie Cantor, Judy Garland, and Bing Crosby, as well as jazz artists like Louis Armstrong. His uncle Dick, a vaudeville tap dancer, introduced him to show business, while his uncle Frank served as the Queens borough library commissioner.
Training, Day Jobs & First Gigs
Bennett attended New York's School of Industrial Art, where he studied painting and music. He began singing for money at age 13, performing as a singing waiter in several Italian restaurants around Queens. After dropping out of school at 16 to support his family, Bennett worked various low-paying jobs while pursuing a singing career. He performed at amateur nights across New York City and enjoyed a successful engagement at a Paramus, New Jersey, nightclub.
Breakthrough & Early Stardom
Bennett's big break came in 1949 when Pearl Bailey invited him to open for her in Greenwich Village. Bob Hope, who attended the show, took Bennett on the road and shortened his name to Tony Bennett. In 1950, Bennett signed with Columbia Records and released his first number-one hit, "Because of You," in 1951. This was followed by hits like "Rags to Riches" and "Stranger in Paradise," establishing him as a leading pop vocalist.
Peak Era & Signature Works
Bennett reached an artistic peak in the late 1950s with albums such as "The Beat of My Heart" and "Strike Up the Band." In 1962, he recorded his signature song, "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," which won Grammy Awards for Record of the Year and Best Male Solo Vocal Performance. Despite a downturn during the rock music era, Bennett staged a comeback in the late 1980s and 1990s, appealing to a new generation while maintaining his classic style. His collaborations with artists like Lady Gaga in the 21st century further solidified his legacy as a timeless artist.
