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Vocalist Tony Bennett, born Anthony Dominick Benedetto on Aug. 13, 1926, in New York City, has become one the great interpreters of popular song, appealing to many generations. His career began when he was discovered on the Arthur Godfrey Talent Scout show. As early as 1951, Bennett started making hit recordings, many of which continued in to the 1960s: "Because Of You," "Cold, Cold Heart," "Rags To Riches," Stranger In Paradise" and "I Left My Heart In San Francisco." While he was making hit recordings, Bennett also was fostering his love for jazz and the impact such singers as Billie Holiday and Louis Armstrong had on him. Jazz musicians that have served as collaborators over the years include an early date with Charles Panely and Chuck Wayne (the album Cloud Seven), Count Basie, Bill Evans, Nat Adderley, Herbie Mann, Joe Marsala, Stan Getz, Chico Hamilton, Gene Krupa, Ruby Braff, Al Cohn and Bobby Hackett, all of whom recorded and/or performed live with the singer. Other jazz collaborations have included work with Jimmy and Marian McPartland, Dizzy Gillespie, Dexter Gordon and George Benson (the latter three performing with Bennett on the album Bennett/Berlin). His most significant collaborator, however, has been his musical director, pianist Ralph Sharon, with whom Bennett has shared a long and fruitful career. Recordings include: Tony Bennett On Holiday (Columbia, 1997), MTV Unplugged (Columbia, 1994), Steppin' Out (Columbia, 1993), Perfectly Frank (Columbia, 1992), Bennett/Berlin (Columbia, 1987). -John Ephland |