Tony Bennett, also known as Anthony Dominick Benedetto, the iconic singer, whose melodious clarity, jazz-infused phrasing, and warm, seemingly effortless renditions of musical classics, captivated audiences worldwide, passed away on Friday at the age of 96 at his long-standing Manhattan residence. Throughout his illustrious career of over 70 years, he gracefully carried the torch for the greatest American pop singers of the 20th century into the 21st, leaving an indelible mark on the American songbook. Despite being diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2016, Tony Bennett continued to perform and record, showcasing his unwavering passion for music until his final public appearance in August 2021, alongside Lady Gaga in a poignant show titled "One Last Time" at Radio City Music Hall. An ardent advocate for preserving classic American popular songs penned by the likes of Cole Porter, the Gershwins, Duke Ellington, Rodgers, and Hammerstein, he further solidified his legacy through remarkable duets with younger artists across various genres and generations, cementing songwriting and entertainment as timeless and noble pursuits. From humble beginnings as a singing waiter and the struggles of a post-war era to his breakthrough in the 1950s with chart-topping hits like "Boulevard of Broken Dreams" and "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," Tony Bennett's journey in the music industry exemplified perseverance and talent. Despite the ever-changing musical landscape, Bennett's popularity endured, as he collaborated with a younger generation of artists in the mid-1980s, selling out concerts and enjoying renewed success. Alongside his musical endeavors, he pursued painting, showcasing his artistic talents. A middle-of-the-road Democrat, Bennett was quietly involved in the civil rights movement during the early '60s and took pride in being the first white singer to record with Count Basie's band.