Lady Gaga shared a touching tribute to her friend and collaborator, the legendary Tony Bennett, on the one-year anniversary of his death, recalling their close bond and the unforgettable moments they shared.
On Saturday, the music world remembered the iconic Tony Bennett on the one-year anniversary of his passing. Among those paying tribute was his longtime friend and collaborator, Lady Gaga, who shared a heartfelt message on Instagram.
"It’s been one year since Tony passed away," Gaga began in her caption. "This picture says it all."
Remembering Tony Bennett: Lady Gaga's Heartfelt Tribute on the One-Year Anniversary of His Passing
The black-and-white photo accompanying the post depicted Bennett and Gaga, a touching moment from their close friendship. Bennett, clad in a tuxedo, held a pencil as he sketched a portrait of Gaga, who was adorned in a glittering black ball gown.
Gaga continued, "I’m so grateful for my continued friendship with his wife Susan — the legacy of jazz music he left — and for the community of jazz musicians I still work with who all knew and loved Tony. We’re gonna keep on swingin.'"
Remembering Tony Bennett: Lady Gaga's Heartfelt Tribute on the One-Year Anniversary of His Passing
Gaga and Bennett's collaboration spanned years, with the duo releasing two albums together: "Cheek to Cheek" in 2014 and "Love for Sale" in 2021. Their friendship extended beyond the stage, with Gaga often expressing her admiration for Bennett's musical genius and kind spirit.
In 2019, Bennett embarked on his solo "I Left My Heart" Tour, despite his Alzheimer's diagnosis. His final performances were with Gaga, who joined him for two shows at Radio City Music Hall in August 2021 to celebrate Bennett’s 95th birthday.
Lady Gaga's Instagram tribute highlighted the profound impact Tony Bennett had on her life and music. She credited him with teaching her about the art form, guiding her through showbiz, and inspiring her to stay positive.
In a testament to their enduring bond, Gaga performed a moving rendition of "Fly Me to the Moon" during her first show back at her Las Vegas residency since Bennett's death. Addressing his widow, Susan Benedetto, who was present at the show, Gaga said, "Susan, everybody in this audience loves you so much."
Despite Bennett's absence, Gaga affirmed that his legacy would live on. "The opening number, the middle numbers, all the diamonds, all the musical instruments, all the conducting, all the improvisation was in his memory," she told the audience. "He’ll never be gone."
Lady Gaga's heartfelt tribute to Tony Bennett served as a poignant reminder of the enduring friendship and musical genius of a jazz legend whose spirit continues to inspire.
