Famed entertainer Tony Bennett, known for his renditions of classic songs like “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” passed away at 96. Bennett was just two weeks away from celebrating his 97th birthday.
Bennett’s publicist, Sylvia Weiner, confirmed the news of his passing with the Associated Press, adding that he died in his hometown of New York. Bennett’s cause of death has yet to be confirmed, but he was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease in 2016. During his decades-long career, Bennett released more than 70 albums and won 19 Grammys for his work.
Bennett released his last album in 2021, titled Love for Sale. It featured Lady Gaga, who echoed Sinatra’s praise of Bennett after working with him. While speaking about working on the album, Gaga told USA Today, “It was a gift. It’s a gift that I will hold in my heart till my last breath. My time with Tony has changed me forever. Frank Sinatra said he was the best singer in the world, and I don’t think Frank lied.”
Tony is survived by his wife Susan, daughters Johanna and Antonia, sons Danny and Dae, and nine grandchildren.