The legendary Tony Bennett shows no signs of slowing down. He is just about to release a new album, singing with all latin artists, titled “Viva Duets” on October 22nd. In November, he is releasing a new book called “Life is Gift.” On top of this, he is fitting in tour dates and the Seneca Niagara Casino in Niagara Falls, NY, was lucky to take in the 86 years young crooner.
Opening up the show was Tony’s daughter Antonia, who did four songs and did an admirable job warming up the crowd for her dad. Tony took the stage receiving an overwhelming round of applause and began singing “Watch What Happens.” Bennett delivered each song with the elegance and class he is known for. He also told stories in between some songs. Bennett talked about how he broke into show business with Rosemary Clooney under the guidance of Pearl Bailey and Bob Hope. In fact, he talked about how Hope convinced him to change his name from Anthony Dominick Benedetto to Tony Bennett.
Bennett’s band was a small ensemble consisting of a stand up bass player, pianist, guitarist and drummer. The band delivered very big though, throughout his performance. Bennett’s voice was exceptional, especially on “The Good Life,” “Just the Way You Look Tonite,” and “Steppin’ Out With my Baby.” Bennett talked about how “Boulevard of Broken Dreams” was the first song he recorded many, many years ago. Bennett has been at this for 60 years. His voice still holds up, surprisingly, very well considering his age. In fact, he sounds better than most artists half of his age. It was a such an honor to witness one of the last connections to an era of innocence. They don’t make them like Tony Bennett anymore and that’s for sure!
Set List:
Watch What Happens
They All Laughed
Maybe This Time
I Got Rhythm
Cold Cold Heart
Sing You Sinners
Old Friends (Duet with daughter Antonia)
Steppin’ Out With my Baby
But Beautiful
Just the Way You Look Tonite
I Can Smile Because of You
Just in Time
Boulevard of Broken Dreams
The Good Life
Once Upon a Time
Shadow of Your Smile
One for my Baby
For Once in my Life
The Best is Yet to Come
Left My Heart in San Francisco
I’m Old Fashioned
Who Cares
Smile
Encore:
When You’re Smiling
We would like to thank Tony Astran from the Seneca Niagara Casino for allowing BackstageAxxess to review the show.
