TONY BENNETT
BY WANDA MARTINEZ
On the night of April 1st, 2016, performing at the Mohegan Sun Arena, was none other than Jazz Legend Tony Bennett. 89-year-old Bennett, who was born Anthony (Antonio) Dominick Benedetto, was influenced early in his career by the likes of Bing Crosby and Judy Garland. He later signed with Columbia Records releasing his hit song “Because of You”.
As the audience waited in anticipation, the band began to play. Mike Renzi, a seven-time Daytime Emmy-winning composer, played at the piano while guitarist Gray Sargent played at the guitar. At the drums was Harold Jones, a drummer who has worked with various famed singers such as Sammy Davis Jr, Ella Fitzgerald, and Tony Bennett and also sharing the stage was Marshall Wood, a well-respected bassist whom many have desired to work with.
It was then, when a familiar voice appeared. It was the voice of Frank Sinatra. He was admiring the work of Tony Bennett and introduced him to crowd. It was then the one and only Tony Bennett appeared on stage, audience members could be heard yelling “I love you Tony!” The crowd stood up in excitement; applauding as he burst into song, appearing pleased as they took to their seats once again to enjoy and savor the moment.
The crowd could be seen throughout the arena bopping their heads back and forth to the music, listening while Tony sung some his biggest hits and fondest memories like “Watch What Happens” written by Michel Legrand followed by “They All Laughed”. The crowd was in awe as he mesmerized them with his ballads. As the show progressed each band member had their moment in the spotlight, showing off their talents as Tony moved from member to member; introducing each one to a gracious audience. In what could quite possibly be his final tour, Tony Bennett’s concert at Mohegan Sun Arena was in deed memorable moment we wish would never end…
