Classic Facts About Tony Bennett, The Great American Crooner
When you think about the classic songs of American big band music or jazz, there’s a good chance that you’re thinking of at least one song performed by Tony Bennett. Here, we look back at the legend's life.
1. He Used A Stage Name
Anthony Dominick Benedetto was born in New York City’s district of Queens on August 3, 1926. He was the youngest child of a grocer named John Benedetto and a seamstress named Anna Suraci.
Yet these humble beginnings weren't enough to stop Bennett's passion for song...and soon he was surprising everyone.
2. He Was Precocious
By age 10, Bennett was already gaining attention with his singing voice. He got a big break. The young Bennett went to the opening of Triborough Bridge to sing as part of the ceremony. In a famous anecdote, Bennett sang while standing next to New York's mayor and received a pat on the head from him in appreciation.
But that was just the beginning.
3. He Hit The Streets
Bennett didn't stop at bridge ceremonies, and first started singing for money when he was barely a teenager. His stages were the various Italian restaurants in his home neighborhood, where he was also working as a waiter during that time. That's how determined he was to make it in the world.
Still, he quickly found out that the world could also be cruel.
4. He Lost His Father Young
To the music world, Tony Bennett was like a father—but he got precious little time with his own dad. Bennett’s father, John, was responsible for instilling a passion for art, but the elder Benedetto was also frequently ill. It led to tragedy. He passed when Bennett as just 10 years old. And then it got so much worse.
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