Tony Bennett: A Taste of a Legend at Hard Rock Live 2012

Hard Rock Live in Hollywood has hosted some of the most memorable nights in South Florida's concert history. Tony Bennett: A Taste of a Legend added another one to the list.

Tony Bennett: A Taste of a Legend at Hard Rock Live 2012 By: Daedrian McNaughton and Gary Sandelier Premier Guide Miami There are moments in life that etch themselves into our memories, and for Gary Sandelier, one such moment occurred in an elevator at the Marriott Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. It was 2006, and with only Tony Bennett as his fellow occupant (Whoopi Goldberg joined later), he found himself starstruck, managing to murmur a shy hello. "Hello, how are you, young man?" Bennett replied warmly. Fast forward six years, and on a balmy night at Hard Rock Live, Gary found himself surrounded by devoted fans, eager to again bask in the timeless charm of Mr. Bennett. The atmosphere pulsed with nostalgia as Bennett took to the stage, ready to reminisce through a classic jazz ensemble interspersed with personal anecdotes. Bennett, ever the embodiment of musical artistry, remains steadfast in his approach. Inspired by legends like Cole Porter and Louis Armstrong, his music pays homage to a rich era while resisting the pressures of contemporary trends. Dressed impeccably in a crisp white jacket, he embodies the formality of a bygone era, proving that elegance never goes out of style. Instead of adapting his style to modern tastes, Bennett has sought to bridge the generational gap by collaborating with younger artists such as Amy Winehouse and Christina Aguilera. These partnerships have successfully introduced his artistry to a new audience, translating the magic of jazz for younger listeners. Backed by a four-man band, Bennett regaled the audience with a selection of his greatest hits. Though his daughter Antonia was absent from this leg of the tour, his performance stood strong, featuring classics like "The Best Is Yet to Come," "Rags to Riches," and "Because of You." Each note resonated with the crowd, transporting them through the storied history of jazz. At 85, Bennett represents an era of musical vitality, passionately maintaining the legacy of jazz that has waned in recent years. With numerous accolades, including the Kennedy Center Honors and 17 Grammys, he reflects on his career with gratitude and humility, though he admits to being less than enthusiastic about contemporary music. In between songs, he shared stories from his past, revealing how he transformed from Anthony Dominick Benedetto to the iconic Tony Bennett — a name gifted to him by Bob Hope in the late 1940s. As he crooned his signature tune, "I Left My Heart in San Francisco," the audience swayed, soaking in the emotion of a piece that has defined his career. Other favorites, like "Maybe This Time" from Cabaret , continued to highlight his status as an international icon. One of the evening's unexpected joys was witnessing Bennett's lively stage presence. With each song, bursts of fancy footwork and playful spins showcased his vitality, reminiscent of Fred Astaire. This spirited performance was a testament to his refusal to retire; he has no plans to step back from the spotlight. Bennett's commitment to his craft is unparalleled, as he takes audiences on a journey through his six-decade career. In a world where pop dominates the charts, he remains a steadfast advocate for the timeless artistry of jazz and blues. Every opportunity to witness a legend like Tony Bennett perform is a gift. His unwavering dedication to music continues to inspire and enchant audiences, making each concert a cherished experience and a celebration of a remarkable life in music. For more upcoming events across South Florida, visit the Premier Guide Miami Events Calendar .