Tony Bennett remembered by Billy Joel as ‘one of many nicest human beings’

It takes one legendary Large Apple crooner to know one.

Tony Bennett was beloved by his fellow New York native Billy Joel, who remembered the enduring singer for his “excellent contribution” to music after his dying at 96 on Friday.

“Tony Bennett was one of the crucial vital interpreters of American widespread music throughout the mid to late twentieth century,” Joel, 74, advised The Submit in a press release.

“He championed songwriters who would possibly in any other case have remained unknown to many thousands and thousands of music followers.”

Joel famous that Bennett was a vaunted vocalist whose expertise transcended generations and genres.

“He was a singular expertise that made the transition from the period of jazz into the age of pop,” he stated.

“I’ll at all times be pleased about his excellent contribution to the artwork of latest music.”

Joel collaborated with Bennett on the “I Left My Heart in San Francisco” singer’s 2001 LP “Playin’ With My Pals: Bennett Sings the Blues,” which gained a Grammy for Greatest Conventional Pop Vocal Album.

“He was a pleasure to work with,” stated Joel. “His vitality and enthusiasm for the fabric he was performing was infectious.”

Bennett and Joel additionally paired as much as sing the Piano Man’s signature music, “New York State of Mind,” on the 2002 Grammys.

“I imply, you might see the respect,” longtime Grammy producer Ken Ehrlich advised The Submit final yr.

“Each time I put [Bennett] with anyone … it was just like the respect that that they had for him was distinctive.”

And Joel’s respect for Bennett went past his timeless, super artistry.

“He was additionally one of many nicest human beings I’ve ever identified.”