Tony Bennett: Iconic American singer dies, aged 96

Tributes are pouring in from across the music world and beyond, as news breaks today that beloved American vocalist Tony Bennett has died, aged 96.

He had been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2016, but had continued to perform up until 2021.

Over the course of his remarkable career, Tony released over 70 albums, won 20 Grammy Awards, and collaborated with a broad range of legendary artists, including Lady Gaga, Amy Winehouse, Aretha Franklin, Bill Evans, k.d. lang, Diana Krall, Dave Brubeck, and Art Blakey.

Nile Rodgers is among those who have shared tributes to Tony this afternoon.

My most heartfelt condolences go out to Tony Bennett’s family and friends. They’re also my emotional family and friends pic.twitter.com/eohrA6fpjI

— Nile Rodgers (@nilerodgers) July 21, 2023

English singer Paul Young described him as "truly one of the greats."

"The first album I had was Tony Bennett sings 10 Rodgers and Hart songs, from when my record company in 1976 let me do a ‘bank raid’ of their vinyl stock and I was a fan from there on in," he wrote. "An incredible singer live, saw him many times."

See more tributes below:

Tony Bennett, the legendary New York pop and jazz singer, has sadly died at the age of 96.

We’re sending love to Tony’s friends and family. 🧡 pic.twitter.com/nMw65IdKbF

— BBC Radio 2 (@BBCRadio2) July 21, 2023

The great Tony Bennett has passed away at the age of 96. He was the last of his kind, a master of the American songbook. He may have left his Heart in San Francisco, but he won all of our hearts, from Sinatra to Lady Gaga. Be at peace, and sing to us now from the stars, Tony.

— George Takei (@GeorgeTakei) July 21, 2023

Tony Bennett... Rest in Peace 🎙️

Legendary. pic.twitter.com/WYHT6zmjoT

— Defected Records (@DefectedRecords) July 21, 2023

Deeply saddened by the passing of a true legend, Tony Bennett, at age 96. His timeless voice and incredible talent have left an indelible mark on the music world. Rest in peace, and thank you for the beautiful memories. pic.twitter.com/Pw0tOJ6Ntw

— Eric Alper 🎧 (@ThatEricAlper) July 21, 2023