Shortly after the 'I Left My Heart in San Francisco' singer passed away in New York City, his widow thanks fans, friends and colleagues who celebrated his 'life and humanity.'
- Jul 22, 2023
AceShowbiz - Tony Bennett's widow is asking fans to "find joy" in his legacy. Shortly after the "I Left My Heart in San Francisco" singer passed away at the age of 96, his grieving wife Susan Benedetto released her first statement addressing the devastating loss in her family.
On Friday, July 21, a statement signed by Susan and Danny Bennett, Tony's eldest son, was released on the late crooner's Instagram page. "From his first performances as a singing waiter in Queens to his last performances in 2021 at Radio City Music Hall, Tony delighted in performing the songs he loved and making people happy," it read.
"And as sad as today has been for all of us we can find joy in Tony's legacy forever," they stated. The two also did not forget to thank Tony's fans and loved ones by stating, "Thank you to all the fans, friends and colleagues of Tony’s who celebrated his life and humanity and shared their love of him and his musical legacy."
Alongside the statement, Susan and Danny shared a joyful picture of Tony from his performance at Radio City Music Hall on August 3, 2021, the same day he celebrated his 95th birthday.
Tony passed away on July 21 in New York City. Many famous people and public figures have since paid tribute to him. Among them was fellow singer Billy Joel who honored the late jazz icon on Twitter.
"Tony Bennett was the one of the most important interpreters of American popular song during the mid to late 20th century," Billy tweeted. "He championed songwriters who might otherwise have remained unknown to many millions of music fans (sic)."
Similarly, country star Keith Urban remembered Tony, whom the former deemed a "class act," on the same social media platform by tweeting, "Just heard about the great Tony Bennett passing. What a legacy of not only superb timeless music, but a class act study in cool, grace, and elegance."
Rocker Ozzy Osbourne, in the meantime, made use of Instagram to pay tribute. Along with a throwback picture of him wrapping his arm on Tony's shoulder, he simply lamented, "Very sad to hear about @itsTonyBennetts passing. Rest in Peace."
Former president Barack Obama also mourned the loss of the great singer. "Tony Bennett was an iconic songwriter and entertainer who charmed generations of fans. He was also a good man - [Michelle Obama] and I will always be honored that he performed at my inauguration. We're thinking of his wife Susan, his kids, and everyone who is missing him today," he stated in his Instagram post.
