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Life Is a Gift: The Zen of Bennett
A moving and inspiring memoir from one of the greatest musical artists of all time
"My given name is Anthony Dominick Benedetto, and Benedetto in Italian means 'the blessed one.' I couldn't say it any better than that."
—Tony Bennett
Legendary singer, artist, and performer, Tony Bennett has been one of the world's most beloved entertainers for more than six decades. From the 78 to the LP to the digital age, Tony has done it all and is still at the top of his game. In decade after decade, this artistic icon—who has won seventeen Grammys, sung for ten presidents, and performed for royalty—has refused to compromise his vision or values. His unwavering commitment to quality has helped him stay true to his classic sound and is the reason his music continues to endure. Mentored by such legends as Duke Ellington, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Nat King Cole, Bennett has only gotten better with age, and his popularity continues to grow as each new generation discovers his timeless songs and incredible voice.
In this entertaining and thoughtful memoir, a collection of soulful reflections and philosophies from his life and career, Bennett shares stories of friends and family and the essential lessons they have taught him: of the value of hard work and of creating art that continues to inspire; of perseverance and a dedication to excellence; of the necessity of humility, love, respect, and, most important, gratitude. Bennett cherishes the passion and insatiable thirst for knowledge that have shaped his life and made each day a journey of discovery. He pays tribute to all the remarkable talents he has had the honor to work with and to learn from, including Luciano Pavarotti, Judy Garland, Cary Grant, Fred Astaire, Count Basie, Louis Armstrong, Aretha Franklin, Barbra Streisand, Paul McCartney, Amy Winehouse, Willie Nelson, Lady Gaga, David Hockney, and k.d. lang, to name just a few.
A magnificent testament to an extraordinary man and his art, and illustrated with Tony Bennett's own beautiful hand-drawn artwork, Life Is a Gift is a work that will captivate, delight, and be cherished by music lovers of all ages.
"My given name is Anthony Dominick Benedetto, and Benedetto in Italian means 'the blessed one.' I couldn't say it any better than that."
—Tony Bennett
Legendary singer, artist, and performer, Tony Bennett has been one of the world's most beloved entertainers for more than six decades. From the 78 to the LP to the digital age, Tony has done it all and is still at the top of his game. In decade after decade, this artistic icon—who has won seventeen Grammys, sung for ten presidents, and performed for royalty—has refused to compromise his vision or values. His unwavering commitment to quality has helped him stay true to his classic sound and is the reason his music continues to endure. Mentored by such legends as Duke Ellington, Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Nat King Cole, Bennett has only gotten better with age, and his popularity continues to grow as each new generation discovers his timeless songs and incredible voice.
In this entertaining and thoughtful memoir, a collection of soulful reflections and philosophies from his life and career, Bennett shares stories of friends and family and the essential lessons they have taught him: of the value of hard work and of creating art that continues to inspire; of perseverance and a dedication to excellence; of the necessity of humility, love, respect, and, most important, gratitude. Bennett cherishes the passion and insatiable thirst for knowledge that have shaped his life and made each day a journey of discovery. He pays tribute to all the remarkable talents he has had the honor to work with and to learn from, including Luciano Pavarotti, Judy Garland, Cary Grant, Fred Astaire, Count Basie, Louis Armstrong, Aretha Franklin, Barbra Streisand, Paul McCartney, Amy Winehouse, Willie Nelson, Lady Gaga, David Hockney, and k.d. lang, to name just a few.
A magnificent testament to an extraordinary man and his art, and illustrated with Tony Bennett's own beautiful hand-drawn artwork, Life Is a Gift is a work that will captivate, delight, and be cherished by music lovers of all ages.
272 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2012
85 people are currently reading
446 people want to read
About the author
Tony Bennett
27 books37 followersAnthony Dominick "Tony" Benedetto , better known by his stage name Tony Bennett, was an American singer of traditional pop standards, show tunes, and jazz. He was also a painter, having created works under the name Anthony Benedetto that are on permanent public display in several institutions. He was the founder of the Frank Sinatra School of the Arts in Astoria, Queens, New York.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Be...
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Tony Bennett
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tony_Be...
Librarian note:
There is more than one author in the GoodReads database with this name
for the English academic please go to:
Tony Bennett
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 80 reviews
February 3, 2013
Tony Bennett is a consummate artist, the epitome of class. In this sentimenal book he reminisces about art, entertainment, civility, and meaning, dropping plenty of names along the way--Sinatra, Basie, Ellington, Gaga. It's not a full-fledged biography, so if that's what you're looking for, look elsewhere.
I learned quite a bit: his mother was a seamstress and their family had very little money when he was a boy. He couldn't take singing lessons because they couldn't afford them for both Tony and his older brother. Later, Tony was in the Army during WWII, arriving in Europe soon after the Battle of the Bulge.
He paints every day, and has art in the Smithsonian (and sprinkled throughout the book). Although he's an icon, he avoids keeping an entourage or security detail. At age 86, he still performs scales daily to keep his voice fresh, and stays fit by working out three times a week. In 1965, Harry Belafonte urged him to come down to Selma, Alabama, to march with Martin Luther King, and they literally sang on a stack of (empty) coffins because no stage was available.
These stories of staying true to your vision despite critics and challenges leave a satisfying glow. He seems to get even better with every passing year. What a timeless singer and a wonderful human being.
I learned quite a bit: his mother was a seamstress and their family had very little money when he was a boy. He couldn't take singing lessons because they couldn't afford them for both Tony and his older brother. Later, Tony was in the Army during WWII, arriving in Europe soon after the Battle of the Bulge.
He paints every day, and has art in the Smithsonian (and sprinkled throughout the book). Although he's an icon, he avoids keeping an entourage or security detail. At age 86, he still performs scales daily to keep his voice fresh, and stays fit by working out three times a week. In 1965, Harry Belafonte urged him to come down to Selma, Alabama, to march with Martin Luther King, and they literally sang on a stack of (empty) coffins because no stage was available.
These stories of staying true to your vision despite critics and challenges leave a satisfying glow. He seems to get even better with every passing year. What a timeless singer and a wonderful human being.
December 7, 2012
This is Tony's "positive affirmations" book.
Tony says...enjoy life, give your all, never give up, you can attain true happiness, your dreams and aspirations can come to fruition, stay true to yourself, etc.
As well, Tony includes applicable anecdotes from Ella, Frank, Basie, Duke, Armstrong, Lena, Pearlie May and even Bob Hope who advised him to change his name to "Tony Bennett".
Tony does not dwell on his own trials and tribulations but he does touch on them briefly, but enough for you to get the gist.
Tony is one of the last of the great originals. May he live forever!
Tony says...enjoy life, give your all, never give up, you can attain true happiness, your dreams and aspirations can come to fruition, stay true to yourself, etc.
As well, Tony includes applicable anecdotes from Ella, Frank, Basie, Duke, Armstrong, Lena, Pearlie May and even Bob Hope who advised him to change his name to "Tony Bennett".
Tony does not dwell on his own trials and tribulations but he does touch on them briefly, but enough for you to get the gist.
Tony is one of the last of the great originals. May he live forever!
February 4, 2017
I've been listening to a lot of Tony Bennett recently; and as I have a friend who loved this book, I decided to try it. I really enjoy it. I'm not an uber-Tony fan, but I really enjoyed the behind-the-scenes look at this timeless entertainer. He had a lot of points. The main ones I remember deal with how to establish a rapport with the audience and show them you love them. Also, he talks a lot about making quality work instead of just going with the latest fad. As a musician, this is the advice I eat up.
The thing from this book that has stayed with me the most is a kind of strange quote: "Don't sin against your talent." Now, in the book, this had to do with substance abuse and how giving yourself over to something like that wastes your talent. But, I keep looking at this through many different lenses. Not practicing my hardest, making lazy arrangements, fluffing my way through songs, and not putting time into the little things are all "sinning against my talent" in some way. Idk, it's just something I keep thinking about.
If you're a Tony Bennett fan or a just an artist of any sort, I highly recommend this book!
The thing from this book that has stayed with me the most is a kind of strange quote: "Don't sin against your talent." Now, in the book, this had to do with substance abuse and how giving yourself over to something like that wastes your talent. But, I keep looking at this through many different lenses. Not practicing my hardest, making lazy arrangements, fluffing my way through songs, and not putting time into the little things are all "sinning against my talent" in some way. Idk, it's just something I keep thinking about.
If you're a Tony Bennett fan or a just an artist of any sort, I highly recommend this book!
April 13, 2020
Talented, caring man . Many interesting stories of musicians and people he knows.
He will always be timeless .
He will always be timeless .
November 3, 2014
This was a delightful book to read. It was full of humor, facts about music history that are not well known, secrets on how to survive showbiz, life, and daily lessons in humility. It was well written and captured your attention from the beginning to the end. I read this book in less than two days. The number of mentors in his life are too numerous to count. But, he is an example of the American Dream come true.
Tony Bennett is an entertainer who has been performing over sixty years has a lot to give the world in wisdom, knowledge, faith, experience, and common sense. His music is priceless and full of the classic songbooks that will endure forever and are song with zeal, integrity, and honesty for his self and his listening audience. A must read for those in the arts. But, a mandatory read for Americans.
My favorite Zen of Bennett is "There should be no planned obsolescence; don't pick up the money and run. Instead, create something of lasting quality and you will reap the rewards."
Tony Bennett is an entertainer who has been performing over sixty years has a lot to give the world in wisdom, knowledge, faith, experience, and common sense. His music is priceless and full of the classic songbooks that will endure forever and are song with zeal, integrity, and honesty for his self and his listening audience. A must read for those in the arts. But, a mandatory read for Americans.
My favorite Zen of Bennett is "There should be no planned obsolescence; don't pick up the money and run. Instead, create something of lasting quality and you will reap the rewards."
May 17, 2015
I have always been a fan of Tony Bennett. This recent book of his is part memoir part advice. Mr. Bennett has been in the business for over 60 years. Not only is he a talented singer, he is also just as talented an artist. In this memoir he offers advice for those who may be interested in a career as a singer. but also just as helpful is his advice for living in this world and the attitude that helps you get on in life. Throughout this book Tony Bennett mentions the many musicians he has met, worked with and became his friends.such as Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, Duke Ellington, and even Lady GaGa.just to name a few. Each chapter shows samplings of his art work and the end of each chapter offers advice "in a nutshell"that he refers to as "the Zen of Bennett" I very much enjoyed reading this book. Tony Bennett just confirmed what I thought for years. That he is a very nice man who embraces life and other people. A very nice read if you are a fan of this talented man.
January 31, 2016
I like this book so much because of its wonderful author. Now, some of this is a trite, repetitive summary of a wonderful life. That works for me. (Your mileage may vary.)
I took this book verr-ry slowly, returning it to the library, and checking it out several times. I've quoted some of the chapter review-style "Zen of Bennett" life lessons, not that I agree with every one, every time, just that Tony Bennett is fascinating in his powerful loving kindness.
I'd love to take my family to hear him, though I may not be able to afford to see him perform on tour in Atlanta - we'll see - but he's still on tour at - what - age 86 or 87!
Here's to you, sir.
My highest recommendation.
I took this book verr-ry slowly, returning it to the library, and checking it out several times. I've quoted some of the chapter review-style "Zen of Bennett" life lessons, not that I agree with every one, every time, just that Tony Bennett is fascinating in his powerful loving kindness.
I'd love to take my family to hear him, though I may not be able to afford to see him perform on tour in Atlanta - we'll see - but he's still on tour at - what - age 86 or 87!
Here's to you, sir.
My highest recommendation.
May 9, 2016
This is the personal testament of a loved and respected entertainer. His own hand-drawn art is illustrated in the book. This is a read for music lovers of all ages. He tells of his meeting and performing with so many well-known entertainers. He is a man who has refused to comprise his vision and values. He cherishes the passion and thirst for learning. Yet, with all of his traveling, entertaining, drawing, painting, writing, he declares he has never worked a day in his life. His philosophy is if you follow your passion, you will never work a day in your life.
If you love music, especially jazz, and real dedication, read this account of Tony Bennett's musical life.
If you love music, especially jazz, and real dedication, read this account of Tony Bennett's musical life.
May 31, 2015
Tony Bennett, a gifted artist and musician, tells his life story in short chapters peppered with his sketches and philosophy. His timeless songs and incredible voice begin with such famous mentors as Frank Sinatra and Nat King Cole. He refused to compromise his attention to detail and quality. His journey is to be respected by the reader as we learn about his name (original Italian name shortened by Bob Hope) to why he wears suits and his goal for the next ten years (he is now 86). Truly a remarkable legend in contemporary times.
March 7, 2013
This book of reflections written by a national treasure in a conversational style makes for light reading. Fans will find nothing new, but first timers will learn why Tony Bennett's style in music and art stands out in contrast to today’s wannabes.
January 18, 2013
Mostly trite but true aphorisms and common sense advise, with anecdotes of famous people telling Tony how wonderful he is. His biography and autobiography are much better.
September 18, 2013
very cliche and preachy - very little depth
December 31, 2023
Ok, so this would not be something that I would seek out to read, but it popped up on Goodreads and I thought I’d give it a try. Tony Bennett seemed like a very personable person who loved what he did. He made connections with people of all age groups who were artists, that he had the opportunity to cross paths. A lot of things he said he tried to apply to his life, I agree with, but his purpose of applying them was different. He talked about how it’s ok to have butterflies as a performer because it means you’re concerned of how you will perform, you don’t want to be too confident because that will come across in a bad way to the audience. I believe it’s ok to be nervous because if you’re too confident and feel you’ve arrived, you can’t be used of God.
Tony Bennett and I have different backgrounds and he had a different driving force than I do. He was living his life to be relatable by his audience and to make connections with those people. I live my life to be a light of God to those around me.
This was an interesting look into the life of a celebrity. It was an easy read, like talking to a friend reminiscing.
*There was some language throughout.
Tony Bennett and I have different backgrounds and he had a different driving force than I do. He was living his life to be relatable by his audience and to make connections with those people. I live my life to be a light of God to those around me.
This was an interesting look into the life of a celebrity. It was an easy read, like talking to a friend reminiscing.
*There was some language throughout.
January 16, 2024
Tony Bennett is such a legend and an icon that it was interesting learning more about him. He met so many people in his lifetime. I enjoyed his stories about Bob Hope, Frank Sinatra, Duke Ellington, Judy Garland, Cary Grant, Amy Winehouse, Lady Gaga and many, many others. In addition to entertainers, Tony was acquainted with many presidents.
Besides all the famous people he knew, Tony talks about his rags to riches life. He grew up in the depression, was drafted into World War II and achieved great success as an entertainer. But most interesting to me was hearing about his humanitarian efforts, especially around social justice. I was surprised to learn he participated in the Selma-to—Montgomery civil rights march in 1965.
Tony mentioned his real last name - Benedetto - means “blessed” in Italian. Tony truly lived a blessed life.
In addition to learning about his life, Tony imparts advice throughout the book in what he refers to as the “zen of Bennett.”
Besides all the famous people he knew, Tony talks about his rags to riches life. He grew up in the depression, was drafted into World War II and achieved great success as an entertainer. But most interesting to me was hearing about his humanitarian efforts, especially around social justice. I was surprised to learn he participated in the Selma-to—Montgomery civil rights march in 1965.
Tony mentioned his real last name - Benedetto - means “blessed” in Italian. Tony truly lived a blessed life.
In addition to learning about his life, Tony imparts advice throughout the book in what he refers to as the “zen of Bennett.”
September 18, 2020
Audio read by Joe Mantegna As smooth as his singing. He gives some great tips about how to do your job. This reminded me of Michael Cain's bio. Well worth the time. The younger the reader the more value from this work.
June 18, 2022
Tony Bennett is a national treasure. I enjoyed reading details of his childhood, rise to stardom, and everything in between (although there seems to be some repetition). His passion for both music and art is evident, and many of Tony’s drawings enhance the text. Glossy photographs showcase Tony’s many collaborations with other great performers.
January 1, 2016
3.5 stars?
I liked this a fair bit. It accidentally made a great New Year's Eve book with some of the insights. I might want to go buy a copy to highlight and mark up... Or I might just fill some notebook pages withe quotes and commentary. I'm not a fan, I actually only crammed this book in because I figured I could read one more this year and thus pulled a biography from the remaining recommendations. It was oddly fascinating to hear his philosophy of life, I appreciated that most. In strict terms of biographical content it was a bit middling, but I was act fascinated beyond that by his thinking. If his claims of his thinking lined up with the details he shared of what he did a bit better I'd be more impressed (and more inclined to have rated it higher)... but even if his philosophy is a hindsight looking back, it was interesting to see him plot the course of its growth. I felt a bit like I was being spun a yarn and being sold a tidy package rather than just letting it be whatever it would be--which is remarkably common in autobiographies but I found it particularly jarring given his sort of 'I just do me, and people can take or leave me because I don't/won't change to suit them' type message. Lots of potential restrained by guardedness, left me wondering what his motivation in putting this out was... it felt a bit like a PR move to either preempt or restore face after an unauthorized biography actually. [Don't get me wrong, I am a pretty guarded person myself, and imagine I'd be even more cautious if I were famous, but why even take on an autobiography if you want to keep the cards so close to the vest?] But his potential motives aside, I am glad I read it. I plan to reread it, in nerdy girl study mode, because there were things that spoke to me.
I liked this a fair bit. It accidentally made a great New Year's Eve book with some of the insights. I might want to go buy a copy to highlight and mark up... Or I might just fill some notebook pages withe quotes and commentary. I'm not a fan, I actually only crammed this book in because I figured I could read one more this year and thus pulled a biography from the remaining recommendations. It was oddly fascinating to hear his philosophy of life, I appreciated that most. In strict terms of biographical content it was a bit middling, but I was act fascinated beyond that by his thinking. If his claims of his thinking lined up with the details he shared of what he did a bit better I'd be more impressed (and more inclined to have rated it higher)... but even if his philosophy is a hindsight looking back, it was interesting to see him plot the course of its growth. I felt a bit like I was being spun a yarn and being sold a tidy package rather than just letting it be whatever it would be--which is remarkably common in autobiographies but I found it particularly jarring given his sort of 'I just do me, and people can take or leave me because I don't/won't change to suit them' type message. Lots of potential restrained by guardedness, left me wondering what his motivation in putting this out was... it felt a bit like a PR move to either preempt or restore face after an unauthorized biography actually. [Don't get me wrong, I am a pretty guarded person myself, and imagine I'd be even more cautious if I were famous, but why even take on an autobiography if you want to keep the cards so close to the vest?] But his potential motives aside, I am glad I read it. I plan to reread it, in nerdy girl study mode, because there were things that spoke to me.
April 1, 2013
I did not expect much out of this book when I picked it up but I was pleasantly surprised. it is a "tweener" between biography and self help. I have been given dozens of worse self help books by bosses. Bennett is a master who shares his knowledge and philosophy. Each chapter has his artwork at the beginning and a Zen chapter summary at the end.
He relates his poor upbringing, WWII service, civil rights and charitable work in addition to his many chapters on the music business and art. Bennett explores mentoring and helping other people. My favorite factoid was that he gave up his ride to the airport at the Selma march to someone else. That was car driven by Viola Liuzzo who was killed by the Klan. He related a lovely passage on Pacifism that drew on his WWII experience liberating Landsberg.
Bennett shared how he persevered and overcame creative differences with Clive Davis and Mitch Miller. If there were any faults he name drops incessantly and glossed over failed marriages and substance abuse. Overall I would recommend particularly for fans of Art, Jazz and Bennett.
He relates his poor upbringing, WWII service, civil rights and charitable work in addition to his many chapters on the music business and art. Bennett explores mentoring and helping other people. My favorite factoid was that he gave up his ride to the airport at the Selma march to someone else. That was car driven by Viola Liuzzo who was killed by the Klan. He related a lovely passage on Pacifism that drew on his WWII experience liberating Landsberg.
Bennett shared how he persevered and overcame creative differences with Clive Davis and Mitch Miller. If there were any faults he name drops incessantly and glossed over failed marriages and substance abuse. Overall I would recommend particularly for fans of Art, Jazz and Bennett.
October 22, 2014
Few know that Tony Bennett is both an accomplish singer and painter. His crooning voice can take you on a magical journey. In his memoir: Life is a Gift- The Zen of Tony Bennett, this star goes back to the highs and lows of his 80 plus years.
He recounts first hand stories of some of the greatest performers of all time, Frank Sinatra, Duke Ellington, and Ella Fitzgerald to name a few. But he does it in a way not to bolster, but to give perspective on these special individuals. The book is also full of sage advice and the importance of discovering your passion and making a difference in the world today.
Bennett has not only been able to have a long career but to stay relevant on the changing times. This book reads as if you were having drinks with a good friend.
Tony has had his shares of woes but he tends to focus on the good times of his life.
He loves to entertain and make people feel special. In his art he works on capturing the color around him. Tony does celebrate the wonders of life in a Zen like way.
He recounts first hand stories of some of the greatest performers of all time, Frank Sinatra, Duke Ellington, and Ella Fitzgerald to name a few. But he does it in a way not to bolster, but to give perspective on these special individuals. The book is also full of sage advice and the importance of discovering your passion and making a difference in the world today.
Bennett has not only been able to have a long career but to stay relevant on the changing times. This book reads as if you were having drinks with a good friend.
Tony has had his shares of woes but he tends to focus on the good times of his life.
He loves to entertain and make people feel special. In his art he works on capturing the color around him. Tony does celebrate the wonders of life in a Zen like way.
February 6, 2013
What can I say? BRAVO!! Mr. Bennett...I absolutely, unequivocally, loved this book. Tony Bennett has been one of my favorite singers since way back when I was a teen-ager. I remember listening to his music over and over. I think the first song I remember hearing him sing was "Rags to Riches." Which if I remember correctly, it was a Number 1 hit, at the time way back in the early 1950s. He is like the energizing bunny, he just keeps going, and only gets better with age.
I loved his "Duet" albums, what a treat they were. I never tire of listening to him sing....
I loved reading this book, I never highlighted a book as much as I did this one. I loved all his little gems or should I say... "The Zen of Bennett"... There were pictures of his many drawings, many photos of him with friends and family. What can I say? BRAVO!! Mr. Bennett...
I loved this book, therefore I am awarding it 5 Gold stars.
I loved his "Duet" albums, what a treat they were. I never tire of listening to him sing....
I loved reading this book, I never highlighted a book as much as I did this one. I loved all his little gems or should I say... "The Zen of Bennett"... There were pictures of his many drawings, many photos of him with friends and family. What can I say? BRAVO!! Mr. Bennett...
I loved this book, therefore I am awarding it 5 Gold stars.
January 16, 2013
I've admired Tony Bennett for years. He is a consummate professional and a great singer. He is also a renowned artist.
This book is a little different, he gives hints and tips about how to make your life better. There is plenty of stories from him life and things that have happened to him but all are meant as examples of where you can make a choice and why some choices work out so well when other fail.
The "Zen" part are summaries of lessons he talked about at the end of each chapter.
Great writing, love the inside look at the entertainment industry but other than some disagreements (not fights, no dirt) he is so positive in what he writes that it is a joy to read.
If you like biographical books for the "dirt" they dish, this isn't the book for you. If you like biographical books that show how a person succeeded and why, you'll love this.
This book is a little different, he gives hints and tips about how to make your life better. There is plenty of stories from him life and things that have happened to him but all are meant as examples of where you can make a choice and why some choices work out so well when other fail.
The "Zen" part are summaries of lessons he talked about at the end of each chapter.
Great writing, love the inside look at the entertainment industry but other than some disagreements (not fights, no dirt) he is so positive in what he writes that it is a joy to read.
If you like biographical books for the "dirt" they dish, this isn't the book for you. If you like biographical books that show how a person succeeded and why, you'll love this.
March 29, 2013
My 86 year old mother gave me this book to read right before I went on vacation with my sister. The fact that she knew I needed a good vacation hardback was very touching time, and that she knew how much I would love this book doubled the tenderness of the gesture.
I have been a jazz singer all my life, and never understood why the modern directive of tolerance hasnt migrated to the larger world. I thought everything's should be life as jazz players see the world.
So does Tony Bennett. But not only that, he breaks down and explains the business world in a guilt free way to those who have been baffled. His understanding of Politics is also profound.
This book is a must read for kids of all ages. Especially those growing up right now! twenty something's will definitely be able to get their hands around this book.
I can't say enough good things.
I have been a jazz singer all my life, and never understood why the modern directive of tolerance hasnt migrated to the larger world. I thought everything's should be life as jazz players see the world.
So does Tony Bennett. But not only that, he breaks down and explains the business world in a guilt free way to those who have been baffled. His understanding of Politics is also profound.
This book is a must read for kids of all ages. Especially those growing up right now! twenty something's will definitely be able to get their hands around this book.
I can't say enough good things.
December 6, 2016
Read this book! If you are a musician, you MUST read this book. If you are a human with a brain and heart you MUST read this book. If I could recommend only one book this year I would say READ this book. Do you think I liked it? I read it in basically one day and went back and reread certain sections. The illustrations are amazing and the photographs moving. I have always been a fan of Tony Bennett - first hearing him on LP at my Grandma's house. When we moved to NYC, we were fortunate enough to have our daughter accepted into Frank Sinatra School of the Arts founded by Mr. Bennett. After hearing a birthday celebration concert in his honor the other night, I was seeking a biography. I am so glad I found this instead. Hearing about this incredible man in his own words and in his own illustrations was the best.
August 2, 2013
Liked it mucho. At the end of each chapter he would summarize his thoughts (The Zen of Bennett) ... some of the salient ones were
- Be determined to stay the course and stand on your own two feet.
- If you do something, it should always be top quality.
- It’s just the art of giving; when you give you get and you don’t take. You just get from giving.
-The more you paint, the more you realize how beautiful life is. To be alive. How wonderful life is, what a gift we have. That helps you get past the bad times.
- When everybody zigs, I want to zag.
- If you create good music, no matter what year it came out, it will always sound completely modern.
- Fame comes and goes, but longevity is the thing to aim for.
- Be determined to stay the course and stand on your own two feet.
- If you do something, it should always be top quality.
- It’s just the art of giving; when you give you get and you don’t take. You just get from giving.
-The more you paint, the more you realize how beautiful life is. To be alive. How wonderful life is, what a gift we have. That helps you get past the bad times.
- When everybody zigs, I want to zag.
- If you create good music, no matter what year it came out, it will always sound completely modern.
- Fame comes and goes, but longevity is the thing to aim for.
November 18, 2014
This book was only ok for me. I work in the music industry, so it was interesting to read his stories of record label issues and his thoughts on today's music. But for as much as he preached about being original, he sure used a lot of cliches. It was annoying the way he'd use them - as if it was this grand phrase nobody else has said or heard before.
He also name-dropped a lot. After a while I'm thinking, we get it. You were friends with Frank Sinatra and Fred Astaire. He seemed to search for ways to mention his celebrity friends.
Overall, he had some good ideas and advice, but nothing that hasn't already been said a million times.
He also name-dropped a lot. After a while I'm thinking, we get it. You were friends with Frank Sinatra and Fred Astaire. He seemed to search for ways to mention his celebrity friends.
Overall, he had some good ideas and advice, but nothing that hasn't already been said a million times.
December 28, 2015
This book is an enjoyable, gentle read about the life experiences and philosophies of a creative man - singer and painter - Mr. Tony Bennett. The chapters are relative
to short and the writing is almost stream-of-consciousness ... like having a personal conversation. It seems quite simple as you read, but I think the suggestions and attitudes about life will percolate in my mind. I also watched the documentary, The Zen of Tony Bennett, available on Netflix. It is interesting to see some of the rehearsals which became part of the famous recorded duets with Bocelli, Carrie Underwood, Amy Winehouse, Willie Nelson, etc.
to short and the writing is almost stream-of-consciousness ... like having a personal conversation. It seems quite simple as you read, but I think the suggestions and attitudes about life will percolate in my mind. I also watched the documentary, The Zen of Tony Bennett, available on Netflix. It is interesting to see some of the rehearsals which became part of the famous recorded duets with Bocelli, Carrie Underwood, Amy Winehouse, Willie Nelson, etc.
February 24, 2018
A lovely book by and about a lovely man for whom I have consummate respect as an artist. Tony Bennett will be 89 this year and is still going strong, working out several times a week, performing, painting every day, and continuing to try to learn with the objective of getting better. Tony Bennett has never been the sentimental type who is ready to hang it up or rest on his laurels. He still loves collaborating with the best young singers and musicians around. His recent work with Any Winehouse and Lady Gaga -- which is outstanding work on the part of everyone involved -- demonstrate that point well.
July 17, 2015
If you've already read "The Good Life: The Autobiography Of Tony Bennett," there's not much here that he hasn't already discussed. However, he *does* talk about his "Duets" albums that came after that book, and the artists with whom he sang on those recordings. There are also his views about the current record industry which is worth reading. And finally, there are his many illustrations and paintings included throughout the book. I recommend this for any big Tony Bennett fan (such as myself) who can't get enough of him. But if you're just someone with a casual interest, his autobiography from 2007 is a better read.
May 2, 2013
Surprisingly, I've never been a huge fan of Tony Bennett, but this book makes me want to give him another look. Really enjoyed hearing about his life and family growing up in NYC, all the great interactions and friendships with the jazz greats, and a painting career that is more enjoyable to read about that look at ;-) Kudos to Bennett for following his heart and not compromising, despite the constant lure and pressure to do what others wanted him to do; now a legend and generous benefactor to the arts.
April 30, 2014
Tony is one of the artists I have had the pleasure of seeing twice (so far) in my life. He performs from the heart and as if everyone in the audience are family and friends. This book explains how and why he is so at ease with performing. Life is a Gift. Tony talks about his time in war, divorces, and drugs. He reflects on how having mentors like Duke Ellington and Frank Sinatra helped him stay on course and focus on his talent. He takes his role as a mentor to young artists to heart. ♡
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