Tony Bennett

Blessed With Many Gifts
By Chris Carney

Whenever Tony Bennett returns to Las Vegas, one cannot help but feel that the city’s prodigal son has returned. This is not to suggest that Tony has behaved in the manner defined by errant son in the beloved moral tale. Quite the contrary, but the excitement and joy at his return flows though the city like a wave of healing energy. Tony has come to satiate our parched musical souls, and like the father in the parable, we welcome him with open arms.

At 81, Tony still has the fire most of us lose when the blessings of youth begin to fade. His newest musical special Tony Bennett: An American Classic garnered three Emmy’s, he was given the UN Humanitarian Award for his work for refugees and he is in the middle of a fall tour that would exhaust a man of half his years.

Despite all his successes; 50 million albums sold, accomplishments; 15 Grammy’s and accolades; Sinatra once called him “The best singer in the business,” Tony retains the humbleness of man who knows life has blessed him.

When he takes the stage at the Las Vegas Hilton, that blessing will be returned to the city that has meant so much to an artist that has meant so much to all of us.

Published in Las Vegas Magazine 10-7-07