Awakenings: Still Captivating Audiences

Saturday, December 12, 2015

Still Captivating Audiences

At 89 years old, this performer still shows us why he has survived the entertainment industry for nearly seven decades. His first successes appeared from 1951–59 with his artistry really growing during the period 1954–65. The years 1965–79 presented themselves as no more than trouble. His recordings were anything but "contemporary" rock songs and thoughts of performing such did not register well. Disheartened words, "Look, I'm lost here. It seems like people don't want to hear the music I make," led him to seek help from son, Danny, and an ultimate turnaround, 1979–89. With no changes to formal appearance, singing style, musical accompaniment, or song choice, this singer captivated a younger audience, an unexpected audience, 1990–95, who were totally unfamiliar with his music. From 1996–present day this entertainer shows no signs of retirement!

Welcome into the spotlight...

Bennett in 2003

Anthony Dominick "Tony" Benedetto better known as

Tony Bennett

Tony Bennett is an American jazz vocalist born in Astoria, Queens, New York, who explored the unique qualities of his voice learning how to personalize each song he recorded. He is best known for his signature song, "I Left my Heart in San Francisco." With numerous hits and awards to his credit, he frequently donates his time to charitable causes to the extent that he is sometimes nicknamed "Tony Benefit."

Tony Bennett's first hit "Because of You"

Bennett's Signature Song

Tony Bennett was a lifelong friend of Frank Sinatra (1915–1998) whose centennial birthday would have been today, December 12, 2015. Tony Bennett payed tribute to the great Sinatra on the CBS morning show today. While his voice may not have the strong projection as in his younger days, the melody is still there sounding like none other than Tony Bennett can voice!