Tony Bennett's Final Words: A Testament to a Life of Gratitude and Love
Tony Bennett, the iconic American singer, left a profound message of gratitude and love in his final words before passing away on July 21 at the age of 96. His eldest son, Danny Bennett, revealed in an interview with Hoda Kotb for the Today show that the singer's last words to him were simply, "Thank you."
Danny, who also served as Tony's manager prior to his death, reflected on his father's enduring humility and connection with his fans. He described the late musician as a "man of the people," a characteristic that was evident throughout his illustrious career. Despite the constant spotlight, Tony never took his popularity for granted. "It was an amazing journey," Danny added.
The singer's wife, Susan Benedetto, also shared her memories of the final years with Tony. Benedetto, who married Tony in 2007, emphasized that "the music never left him." The last song he performed was "Because of You." She also revealed that his last words to her were expressions of love, a sentiment he woke up with every day. "He woke up happy every day," she said.
Danny also shared an anecdote about his father's adventurous spirit and willingness to adapt to changing times. He recalled a time when Tony walked into his office after watching MTV and expressed his interest in performing in that format. This led to Tony performing at shows with audiences of 60,000 young fans, a testament to his timeless appeal.
The loss of Tony Bennett is deeply felt by his family, friends, and fans worldwide. His final words, however, serve as a reminder of his enduring gratitude and love for those around him, qualities that were as much a part of his legacy as his unforgettable music.