Tony Bennett Was A Hell Of A Late-Night Guest

Tony Bennett passed away last week at the age of 96. To say he had a good run would be a massive understatement. The man had one of the most recognizable voices in the world. He sang for crowds large and small. His finely honed skills and natural talents were the envy of many of his ilk. The young man from New York City fought for his country and civil rights. May his legend reach another 96 years and beyond.

Today, I’d like to talk about a guest appearance he made on The Tonight Show Starring Johnny Carson. As Johnny points out, Tony was one of his first guests on October 1st, 1962. Bennett returned almost twenty years later and blew the doors off of the place. Before he even starts singing, he has an almost indescribable presence. He stands before that crowd, looking cool as hell like someone doing exactly what they should be doing.

I’ll be honest and say that I started to float away as Tony Bennett began singing. When I learned of his passing, my sons and I spent most of the day listening to him. It had never occurred to me to show them the man. This morning, my son walked over and laid his head on my lap as Tony began to sing Here’s That Rainy Day, and I began to weep. It was a beautiful song sung by a beautiful man, gifting my son and me a beautiful moment.

The way Tony Bennett shifts gears between songs, from something upbeat and proud as I’ve Got To Be Me to the solum aforementioned Here’s That Rainy Day, is inspiring. Then, the dude brings the tempo right back up for My Way. It is an absolute wonder to behold. He gives each song its moment, playing lovingly to the crowd and the camera. He’s inviting us all to feel what he’s feeling. It’s magic at work.

When Tony sits next to Carson, an honor in its own right, the late-night host stops just short of asking for Bennett’s autograph. He is just as amazed as the rest of us. Still, Tony is humble and self-effacing. He takes the time to compliment other singers. Then, he tells a story about being upstaged at one of his own shows. He had every right to revel in his excellence. Instead, he passes it on to others.

Tony Bennett was one of a kind. It’s strange to think that he is physically not around anymore. However, his music, his performances, his strength, his kindness, all of that will live on. I also assume we’re about ten years away from Jeremy Allen White playing him in a movie (if he can sing). Rest in peace, Tony Bennett. Thank you for sharing your gifts with us.