Top entertainment figures including the likes of Mariah Carey, Billy Joel, and Elton John have broken their silence to pay tribute to the legendary singer Tony Bennett.
The 96-year-old musician and 20-time Grammy Award winner died at his home in New York City on Friday, his family confirmed.
Now, thousands of singers, performers, and fans alike rallied on social media to pay the ‘I Left My Heart In San Francisco’ hitmaker a tribute and remember him as the successful musician he was.
Leading the tributes, fellow music legend Billy Joel penned: “Tony Bennett was the one of the most important interpreters of American popular song during the mid to late 20th century. He championed songwriters who might otherwise have remained unknown to many millions of music fans.
“His was a unique voice that made the transition from the era of Jazz into the age of Pop.
I will always be grateful for his outstanding contribution to the art of contemporary music. He was a joy to work with. 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.
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Nile Rodgers added: “My most heartfelt condolences go out to Tony Bennett’s family and friends. They’re also my emotional family and friends.”
Pop diva Mariah Carey wrote: “Rest in Peace Tony Bennett. It was such an honor to work with one of the world’s most beloved, respected and legendary singers of the past century. We will miss you.”
Paying a tribute to the ‘Body and Soul’ hitmaker was also British music legend Elton John. “So sad to hear of Tony’s passing. Without doubt the classiest singer, man, and performer you will ever see. He’s irreplaceable. I loved and adored him. Condolences to Susan, Danny and the family,” he wrote.
Among thousands of mourners were also Keith Urban, Ozzy Osbourne, Gene Simmons, and more.
“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,” the Australian-American country superstar wrote.
“Very sad to hear about Tony Bennett’s passing. Rest in Peace,” the Prince of Darkness added.
The Kiss bassist and co-lead singer said: “Today we lost an icon of icons. Kind, considerate and as Sinatra was quoted as saying, the best singer of them all. Rest In Peace, Tony Bennett.”