Tony Bennett is a legendary American singer who has been captivating audiences with his smooth voice and charming personality for over seven decades. Born in Queens, New York in 1926, Bennett began his career in the music industry in the 1950s and has since become one of the most celebrated performers of all time. With a career spanning over 70 years and numerous accolades to his name, including 20 Grammy Awards and a Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award, Tony Bennett’s legacy in music is undeniable.
In this article, we will be exploring the top 10 best Tony Bennett songs of all time. From his early hits in the 1950s and 60s to his more recent collaborations with contemporary artists, we will be looking at the songs that have defined his career and continue to inspire fans today. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to Tony Bennett’s music, this list is sure to showcase the incredible talent of this iconic performer and highlight why he remains a beloved figure in the music industry.
1. Because Of You
“Because of You” is a classic love song by Tony Bennett that was originally released in 1951. The song was composed by Arthur Hammerstein and Dudley Wilkinson and quickly became a hit, reaching the number one spot on the Billboard charts. The song’s lyrics express the profound impact that a lover has had on the singer’s life, and how their presence has changed everything for the better. Tony Bennett’s smooth, emotive vocals bring the lyrics to life, conveying the depth of emotion that the song evokes. Over the years, “Because of You” has remained a timeless classic and a fan favorite, earning its place as one of the best-loved Tony Bennett songs of all time. Whether you’re a romantic at heart or simply a fan of great music, “Because of You” is a song that is sure to touch your soul.
2. The Good Life
“The Good Life” is a song by Tony Bennett that was first recorded in 1962. The song was composed by Sacha Distel and Jack Reardon and features lyrics that celebrate the simple pleasures of life. Tony Bennett’s signature smooth and velvety voice brings the song to life, perfectly capturing the essence of the lyrics. With its upbeat tempo and catchy melody, “The Good Life” is a feel-good song that is sure to put a smile on your face. The song has become a beloved classic and has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Whether you’re a fan of jazz, pop, or simply great music, “The Good Life” is a song that is sure to lift your spirits and remind you of the joys of living.
3. I Wanna Be Around
“I Wanna Be Around” is a classic Tony Bennett song that was first released in 1963. The song was written by Johnny Mercer and Sadie Vimmerstedt and features lyrics that express the pain of a broken heart and the desire to be reunited with a lost love. Tony Bennett’s emotive vocals perfectly capture the raw emotion of the lyrics, conveying the sense of longing and heartache that is at the heart of the song. With its lush orchestration and beautiful melody, “I Wanna Be Around” is a timeless classic that has become a favorite of Bennett’s fans. Whether you’re going through a difficult time in your own life or simply appreciate great music, “I Wanna Be Around” is a song that is sure to touch your heart and leave a lasting impression.
4. Rags To Riches
“Rags to Riches” is a classic song by the American singer Tony Bennett. The track was released in 1953 and quickly became a hit, reaching number one on the charts. The song tells the story of someone who has gone from being poor and struggling to suddenly having wealth and success. Bennett’s smooth and powerful vocals are complemented by the lush orchestration, which features strings, brass, and percussion. The song’s memorable chorus, which repeats the phrase “Rags to riches,” has made it a beloved classic of the American songbook. Bennett’s performance on “Rags to Riches” showcases his talent for phrasing, dynamics, and emotion, and the song remains a timeless example of mid-20th century pop music.
5. My Foolish Heart
“My Foolish Heart” is a beautiful and haunting ballad performed by the legendary singer Tony Bennett. The song was written by Ned Washington and Victor Young and was first introduced in the 1949 film of the same name. Bennett’s rendition of the song was released in 1954 and has become a timeless classic of the American songbook. The song is a powerful expression of love and longing, with Bennett’s velvety vocals bringing out the emotional depth of the lyrics. The slow and melancholy melody is beautifully arranged, with lush strings and subtle piano accompaniment. Bennett’s phrasing and interpretation of the song are masterful, conveying a sense of heartbreak and regret that is universal and timeless. “My Foolish Heart” is a testament to Bennett’s enduring talent as a singer and his ability to connect with his audience through his artistry.
6. Stranger In Paradise
“Stranger In Paradise” is a classic song performed by Tony Bennett that was first released in 1953. The song is from the musical “Kismet” and features lyrics by Robert Wright and George Forrest. With its haunting melody and beautiful orchestration, “Stranger In Paradise” is a romantic ballad that captures the essence of falling in love. Tony Bennett’s smooth vocals perfectly convey the sense of wonder and enchantment that is at the heart of the song, making it a favorite of his fans. Over the years, “Stranger In Paradise” has become a timeless classic and has been covered by numerous artists, cementing its place as one of the great love songs of all time. Whether you’re a romantic at heart or simply appreciate great music, “Stranger In Paradise” is a song that is sure to capture your imagination and leave a lasting impression.
7. The Way You Look Tonight
“The Way You Look Tonight” is a classic song by Tony Bennett that has become a staple of the American songbook. The song was written by Jerome Kern and Dorothy Fields and first appeared in the 1936 film “Swing Time.” Bennett’s rendition of the song, which was released in 1957, features his smooth and velvety vocals, accompanied by a lush and romantic orchestration. The song’s timeless melody and lyrics express the joy and wonder of being in love, with Bennett’s voice conveying a sense of warmth, tenderness, and intimacy. The song’s memorable chorus, which repeats the phrase “The way you look tonight,” has made it an enduring classic that has been covered by countless artists over the years. Bennett’s performance on “The Way You Look Tonight” is a testament to his skill as a singer and his ability to capture the essence of a timeless love song.
8. Fly Me To The Moon
“Fly Me to the Moon” is a timeless classic performed by the legendary singer Tony Bennett. The song, written by Bart Howard, was originally titled “In Other Words” and was first recorded in 1954. Bennett’s version of the song, released in 1965, has become one of his signature hits and is considered one of the greatest love songs of all time. The song’s lyrics describe a desire to escape the mundane and ordinary and soar into the infinite beauty of the moon and stars with a loved one. Bennett’s smooth and effortless vocals are perfectly complemented by a dreamy and romantic orchestration, featuring lush strings, muted horns, and a jazzy rhythm section. The song’s simple but memorable melody has made it a perennial favorite, with countless covers and adaptations recorded over the years. Bennett’s performance on “Fly Me to the Moon” is a masterful example of his talent for interpreting classic songs and making them his own.
9. Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me)
“Who Can I Turn To (When Nobody Needs Me)” is a beautiful and emotive song by Tony Bennett that was first recorded in 1964. The song was composed by Anthony Newley and Leslie Bricusse and features lyrics that speak to the loneliness and despair that can come with feeling disconnected from the world around us. Tony Bennett’s soulful vocals perfectly capture the emotion of the song, conveying a sense of vulnerability and yearning that is both poignant and powerful. With its lush orchestration and timeless melody, “Who Can I Turn To” has become a beloved classic that has been covered by numerous artists over the years. Whether you’re feeling lost and alone or simply appreciate great music, “Who Can I Turn To” is a song that is sure to touch your heart and leave a lasting impression.
10. I Left My Heart In San Francisco
“I Left My Heart in San Francisco” is a classic song by Tony Bennett that has become an iconic anthem of the city by the bay. The song, written by George Cory and Douglass Cross, was first released in 1954, but it wasn’t until Bennett’s version in 1962 that it became a major hit. The song’s wistful lyrics and melancholic melody evoke the longing and nostalgia of leaving behind a loved one in a beloved city. Bennett’s smooth and emotive vocals perfectly capture the song’s bittersweet sentiment, and the orchestration features a memorable combination of horns, strings, and a jazzy rhythm section. The song has become synonymous with San Francisco and is played at many events and venues throughout the city. Bennett’s performance on “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” is a masterclass in capturing the essence of a classic song and imbuing it with his own unique style and emotion.
Darren Jamison is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
