Tony Bennett: Legendary New York singer dies aged 96

NEW YORK, July 22: The legendary New York pop and jazz singer died on Friday aged 96. Tony Bennett was "singing at his piano" just days before he died, his representatives have revealed.

A statement posted on his Twitter account said: "Tony left us today but he was still singing the other day at his piano and his last song was Because of You, his first #1 hit. Tony, because of you we have your songs in our heart forever."

Bennett was known for songs such as The Way You Look Tonight, Body and Soul and (I Left My Heart) In San Francisco. He also collaborated with star performers from Lady Gaga to Aretha Franklin and Frank Sinatra, who called him "the best singer in the business".

During a career that spanned eight decades, Bennett sold millions of records and won 20 Grammys, including a lifetime achievement award.

Bennett's death was confirmed by his publicist Sylvia Weiner in a statement to the Associated Press. She said he died in his hometown of New York. No specific cause of death was announced, but Bennett had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2016.

Sir Elton John led the tributes on social media, writing in a statement posted on his Instagram that he was sad to hear of Tony's passing. "Without doubt the classiest singer, man, and performer you will ever see," Sir Elton said, "He's irreplaceable. I loved and adored him. Condolences to Susan, Danny and the family."

The White House released a statement saying that "Tony Bennett didn't just sing the classics - he himself was an American classic" and praising his enduring contributions to American life.

Former US first lady Hillary Clinton described Bennett as a "true talent, a true gentleman, and a true friend". She tweeted: "We'll miss you, Tony, and thanks for all the memories."

Singer Carole King said: "RIP Tony Bennett. Such a big loss. Deepest sympathy to his family and the world."

(BBC)