Tony Bennett: An American Classic

Tony Bennett: An American Classic is a poignant tribute to the life and career of the incomparable Tony Bennett, one of the greatest living legends in music. Released in 2006 to celebrate his 80th birthday, this special not only captures the essence of Bennett's enduring legacy but also his boundless energy, his infectious passion for music, and his unwavering commitment to excellence. Through a series of beautifully restored settings and performances, Bennett reflects on his life's work, rekindling some of the most iconic moments from his storied career. The journey begins with Bennett, a spry and vibrant octogenarian, surrounded by friends, colleagues, and, of course, his beloved music. We see glimpses of the young Bennett, rising to fame in the 1950s as a singer, painter, and devoted jazz enthusiast. We're transported to the legendary Village Vanguard, a Greenwich Village nightclub that was once his home away from home, and the iconic Copacabana, where he would later become a fixture in the 1940s and '50s. Each setting is meticulously crafted to evoke the spirit of the era, from the gleam of a vintage microphone to the subtle nuances of a period-perfect piano. Bennett's journey is intertwined with his Duets album, a remarkable project that brought him into collaboration with some of the most iconic figures in music. These duets, recorded over the course of several years, would yield an astonishing array of musical pairings, ranging from Elton John and Andrea Bocelli to Michael Bublé, Josh Groban, and Stevie Wonder. In An American Classic, Bennett is reunited with these talented partners, recreating the magic of their studio recordings within each nostalgic setting. From the sultry, late-night atmosphere of the Copacabana to the charming, intimate spaces of the Vanguard, Bennett and his friends breathe life back into these storied venues. They revisit some of their earlier collaborations, revisiting songs like "Steppin' Out with My Baby" with Tony Bennett and Amy Winehouse, "Stepping Stone" with Buble, and "They All Laughed" with Bennett and John. Each duet becomes an opportunity for Bennett to share stories, memories, and anecdotes, while the music swells, transporting the audience to bygone eras. The film takes a special interest in Bennett's early years, when he began his rise to fame as a young artist. He shares the pivotal moments that defined his career, from his early days as a child prodigy in Toledo, Ohio, to his first appearances on national television, and eventually, to the iconic recording sessions that catapulted him to stardom. Through these stories, Bennett conveys his boundless enthusiasm and unwavering dedication to the art form, illuminating the trials and triumphs that have shaped his career. Throughout the special, Bennett is also joined by his own remarkable family, featuring his son, Dae Bennett, and his granddaughter, Ava Bennett. Together, they share in the joy and the emotion of the evening, as Bennett reflects on his enduring legacy, which has included a lifelong devotion to his craft, to the music that has defined his life, and, above all, to his community. Bennett's legacy extends far beyond his own accomplishments, however, and An American Classic celebrates the profound impact he has had on so many artists and fans around the world. We see glimpses of this as he is joined by Elton John, the first artist to collaborate with Bennett on his groundbreaking Duets project. "If I Ruled the World" is a standout moment, as John and Bennett trade vocals, their chemistry evident, and the song taking on a fresh, modern quality while honoring the song's roots in the music of the 1940s and '50s. At 80, Tony Bennett is still, as the title of this special says, an American classic, an artist whose passion, whose music, and whose spirit continue to inspire new generations of musicians, audiences, and artists alike. An American Classic is a heartfelt tribute to a remarkable artist, one that not only charts his career but also celebrates the timeless power of his music and the indomitable spirit that has propelled him to the very top. It is, above all, a tribute to the enduring power of beauty, creativity, and the indescribable allure of the music that has captivated and inspired us all over the years.