RIP Tony Bennett: The Greatest Crooner
Tony Bennett, the great American jazz and pop singer died July 21, 2023, after progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Singing, performing, and recording into his nineties he was widely recognized as one of America’s greatest singers.
In an interview in 1965 Frank Sinatra said, “For my money Tony Bennett is the best singer in the business.” Tony won 20 Grammy awards; the first came in 1963 for “I Left My Heart in San Francisco”. The last in 2022, at the age of 96, he won song of the year with Lady Gaga for “Love for Sale”!
I know that I am older, and I am embarrassed to say that I can’t name a single song by popular singers Taylor Swift, Beyonce, or Drake. I am drawn to a quieter, more complex style when I listen to music. This style is more melodic, jazzy, with intelligent lyrics.
The Greatest Crooner
Tony Bennett embodied the style of the Crooner. Crooners were characterized by a distinctive style – softer, emotional, more subtle singing. They frequently performed with a big band or jazz ensemble.
The Crooner style came about because of the development of the microphone and amplification. This allowed singers to sing more quietly and with more emotional range. By becoming physically close to the microphone they created an intimacy with their audience – often singing in a whisper. If you’d like to explore this genre here are some great artists to explore.
The Original Crooners
- Tony Bennett
- Bing Crosby
- Bob Crosby
- Bobby Short
- Bobby Darin
- Dean Martin
- Frank Sinatra
- Robert Goulet
- Nat King Cole
- Sammy Davis, Jr.
- Roy Orbison
Modern Crooners
- Harry Connick, Jr.
- Michael Bublé
- Chris Isaak
- Lady Gaga
- Adele
- Diana Krall
- Postmodern Jukebox
Spotify Playlists
Take some time to listen to some great singers and songs. Remember Tony Bennett who helped preserve this style by working with Amy Winehouse, Lady Gaga, and other artists on his two Duets albums. They will all carry on the Crooner legacy.
Ralph Broadwater, M.D., CFP®
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