Lady Gaga took to Instagram to honor the music legend Tony Bennett on his first death anniversary, sharing a heartfelt message about her late friend and collaborator. Bennett, a pioneer in jazz music, passed away on July 21, 2023, at the age of 96 after battling Alzheimer’s in his final years.
Despite his Alzheimer’s diagnosis in 2016, Bennett continued to perform until his final years, even launching a solo tour in 2019. His last performance with Lady Gaga took place in August 2021, a moment that remains etched in her heart.
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Lady Gaga’s Heartfelt Tribute To Tony Bennett
Lady Gaga posted a touching black-and-white photo of herself with Bennett and a message that encapsulates their bond. The photo Gaga shared shows Bennett sketching her for the cover of their 2021 collaborative album, ‘Love for Sale.‘
“It’s been one year since Tony passed away,” Gaga captioned her post. “This picture says it all. I’m so grateful for my continued friendship with his wife Susan — the legacy of jazz music he left — and for the community of jazz musicians I still work with who all knew and loved Tony. We’re gonna keep on swingin’. Miss you, life is a beautiful thing.“
In a 2021 video, Gaga can be seen moved to tears as Bennett revealed his artwork. Their musical partnership was celebrated through two jazz albums, with the singer cherishing every moment they spent together on stage and in the studio.
Bennett’s neurologist, Gayatri Devi, highlighted the positive impact of music on his condition. “It kept him on his toes and also stimulated his brain in a significant way,” she stated to People. “He is doing so many things … that many people without dementia cannot do. He really is the symbol of hope for someone with a cognitive disorder.“
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The Music World Mourns A Legend
Following Bennett’s passing, the music world was filled with tributes. Gaga expressed her deep sorrow on Instagram, saying, “I will miss my friend forever. I will miss singing with him, recording with him, talking with him, being on stage together.”
Billy Joel, another of Bennett’s longtime collaborators, also paid tribute to him. On Instagram, Joel praised Bennett’s contribution to contemporary music.
He wrote, “His energy and enthusiasm for the material he was performing was infectious. He was also one of the nicest human beings I’ve ever known.” Joel’s memories of their iconic 2001 duet of “New York State of Mind” highlight the joy Bennett brought to those he worked with.
The Amy Winehouse Foundation also posted a photo of Amy and Benett with a caption stating, “Today marks the end of an era, as we say farewell to Tony Bennett. A true star, a true gentleman and a wonderful friend and mentor to Amy. Thank you for the music Tony. Our love and heartfelt condolences to all his family and friends.”
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