Senate Wants To Make Tony Bennett Day In New York City

On the day that would have been Tony Bennett’s 97th birthday, August 3, Senator Chuck Schumer unveiled a resolution designating the day as Tony Bennett Day. The renowned vocalist passed away on Friday, July 21.

At the bench where Bennett frequently painted and sat outside his apartment in New York City, Schumer referred to the late singer as a New Yorker.

Schumer shared:

“Whether you met Tony or listened to Tony, whether you’re old or young or in between — everyone knew Tony Bennett, and everyone loved Tony Bennett. Just to hear him sing a few bars you knew he cared about you, and he cared about the words of the song.”

Tony Bennett’s Journey

Born as Anthony Dominick Benedetto on August 3, 1926, in Queens, New York, Bennett began his journey into music and art from a young age. He even worked as a singing waiter to support his family after his father’s passing.

In 1951, Bennett achieved his first hit with the song “Because of You,” followed by several other classics like “Stranger in Paradise,” “Just in Time,” “Rags to Riches,” and “Cold, Cold Heart” in the subsequent years. His success extended into the 1960s with hits like “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” along with tracks such as “Who Can I Turn To,” “The Good Life,” and “I Wanna Be Around.”

A New Yorker’s Love for the City

For most of his life, aside from a brief time in Los Angeles and London, Bennett remained a resident of New York City, spending a significant portion of his 96 years there.

Schumer noted:

“He had something in common with so many New Yorkers He gave it his all.

“He wouldn’t let anything stop him. He gave it all in a sincere, honest, forthright way, just like New Yorkers.”

The senator continued:

“Here is a man who sang about his heart while his soul was always here in New York. The King of Croon is beloved from coast-to-coast, his reach spanned genres and generations, but he is, and he will always be, a New Yorker who did so much good.”

A Tribute to Tony Bennett

On August 3, Bennett’s lifelong friend, Rep. Nancy Pelosi, proposed a similar resolution to remember Bennett on the floor of the House of Representatives.

Pelosi expressed on July 27th:

“Tony Bennett was a national treasure: an extraordinarily gifted singer, a great humanitarian and a true American patriot. For seven decades, Tony graced us with his beautiful voice, skillful songwriting and classic tunes. His legendary musical legacy was fittingly recognized, and as historic was Tony’s devotion to serving his Nation.”

She added:

“This resolution appropriately honors Tony’s extraordinary legacy and celebrates his unsurpassed artistry and patriotic leadership.”