Tony Bennett passed away this past Friday just a few days short of his 97th birthday after a seven-decade career.
Raised in poverty and losing his father at age 10, his WWII service included fighting in the last big Nazi offensive of the war, the “Battle of Bulge,” and helping to liberate a concentration camp, earning a Bronze Star for his service.
After the war, another great singer, Pearl Baily introduced him to comedian Bob Hope who took him on the road, launching a 70-year career. Early success in the 1960 were followed by a decade of personal struggle with drugs, meeting the challenge of rock n’ roll and issues with the IRS. His sons helped him overcome these challenges, allowing him to focus on introducing his earlier material to a generation unfamiliar with it, ultimately inspiring younger stars like Harry Connick, Jr., and Michael Buble’ to resurrect this genre. He also developed another career as a painter.
The essence of a successful competitive strategy is being unique. He began working with unlikely artists from very different genres including MTV, Willie Nelson, Aretha Franklin, Amy Winehouse and most notably Lady Gaga (see above picture) with whom he produced several albums and wildly successful tours, while preserving and refining the core of his original offering. He was a genius at bridging generational divides (marketers take note).
This chronology of his life recaps a remarkable life; a rise from poverty, courageous soldier, musician, painter, recovery from addiction, overcoming the adversity of a market that turned against him. and a true musical entrepreneur.
Rest in Peace, Tony….you gave us great music, but more importantly, the example of a life well lived.
