The Song That Propelled Tony Bennett to Stardom

While some artists may shy away from their early work, Tony Bennett cherishes "Because of You," his first hit, as a pivotal stepping stone to success.

In the final days before Tony Bennett's passing at the remarkable age of 96, he reportedly sat at his piano and sang one last song—the iconic "Because of You." This 1951 hit single not only launched his illustrious seven-decade-long career but remained an inseparable part of his heart throughout his life. While many artists may downplay their early works, Bennett held "Because of You" dear, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping his fame, fortune, and legendary status.

When Bennett first recorded the song, he was a 24-year-old aspiring artist from Queens, New York, with little success in his slim discography. His early career began at Columbia Records, where he was on the verge of being dropped from the label. However, fate intervened when orchestra leader Percy Faith picked "Because of You" from a pile of sheet music for Bennett to record, changing the course of his life forever.

Interestingly, "Because of You" was co-written by Arthur Hammerstein, the uncle of the famous lyricist Oscar Hammerstein, known for his collaborations with Richard Rodgers. Though initially overlooked, Faith's wise advice to Bennett to sing the song with his natural voice transformed the track into a timeless classic. Bennett had previously struggled with an overwrought style, but the decision to sing honestly and sincerely unlocked the true magic of the song.

Beyond his musical achievements, Tony Bennett's legacy includes his civil-rights activism and his dedication to preserving classic American pop songs. Yet, it is undeniable that without "Because of You," his extraordinary journey would not have been possible.

While some artists may shy away from their early work, Tony Bennett cherishes "Because of You," his first hit, as a pivotal stepping stone to success.

In the final days before Tony Bennett's passing at the remarkable age of 96, he reportedly sat at his piano and sang one last song—the iconic "Because of You." This 1951 hit single not only launched his illustrious seven-decade-long career but remained an inseparable part of his heart throughout his life. While many artists may downplay their early works, Bennett held "Because of You" dear, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping his fame, fortune, and legendary status.

When Bennett first recorded the song, he was a 24-year-old aspiring artist from Queens, New York, with little success in his slim discography. His early career began at Columbia Records, where he was on the verge of being dropped from the label. However, fate intervened when orchestra leader Percy Faith picked "Because of You" from a pile of sheet music for Bennett to record, changing the course of his life forever.

Interestingly, "Because of You" was co-written by Arthur Hammerstein, the uncle of the famous lyricist Oscar Hammerstein, known for his collaborations with Richard Rodgers. Though initially overlooked, Faith's wise advice to Bennett to sing the song with his natural voice transformed the track into a timeless classic. Bennett had previously struggled with an overwrought style, but the decision to sing honestly and sincerely unlocked the true magic of the song.

Beyond his musical achievements, Tony Bennett's legacy includes his civil-rights activism and his dedication to preserving classic American pop songs. Yet, it is undeniable that without "Because of You," his extraordinary journey would not have been possible.

While some artists may shy away from their early work, Tony Bennett cherishes "Because of You," his first hit, as a pivotal stepping stone to success.

In the final days before Tony Bennett's passing at the remarkable age of 96, he reportedly sat at his piano and sang one last song—the iconic "Because of You." This 1951 hit single not only launched his illustrious seven-decade-long career but remained an inseparable part of his heart throughout his life. While many artists may downplay their early works, Bennett held "Because of You" dear, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping his fame, fortune, and legendary status.

When Bennett first recorded the song, he was a 24-year-old aspiring artist from Queens, New York, with little success in his slim discography. His early career began at Columbia Records, where he was on the verge of being dropped from the label. However, fate intervened when orchestra leader Percy Faith picked "Because of You" from a pile of sheet music for Bennett to record, changing the course of his life forever.

Interestingly, "Because of You" was co-written by Arthur Hammerstein, the uncle of the famous lyricist Oscar Hammerstein, known for his collaborations with Richard Rodgers. Though initially overlooked, Faith's wise advice to Bennett to sing the song with his natural voice transformed the track into a timeless classic. Bennett had previously struggled with an overwrought style, but the decision to sing honestly and sincerely unlocked the true magic of the song.

Beyond his musical achievements, Tony Bennett's legacy includes his civil-rights activism and his dedication to preserving classic American pop songs. Yet, it is undeniable that without "Because of You," his extraordinary journey would not have been possible.