Tony Bennett: Gone But Not Forgotten

I was saddened to hear of Tony Bennett’s passing today. I had the pleasure of seeing him on three occasions; Toronto in the 1970s, in Perth in the 1980s, and in Clearwater, Florida, 15 years ago while already in his 80s.

Frank Sinatra called him the greatest singer of his generation. In total, he received 20 Grammy Awards. Bennett had a way of delivering a song that made him unique. He was not only a gifted singer who obviously loved his craft, but he was still performing in his 90s. Many don't realize he was also quite an accomplished painter.

I still remember seeing him on TV's Ed Sullivan Show in 1964, performing his signature song.