Michael Bublé and others laud iconic American singer Tony Bennett, who died at 96

Legendary singer Tony Bennett died at the age of 96 years old. Publicist Sylvia Weiner confirmed the man's passing to the Associated Press. Bennett would have turned 97 on August 3.

Other musical artists have been paying tribute Bennett on social media.

"Tony Bennett is one of the greatest vocalists, storytellers and interpreters of all time," modern-day crooner Michael Bublé wrote while sharing a picture of himself sitting next to Bennett.

"To say he was an important part of who I became is an understatement. My grandpa was constantly playing Tony Bennett records when I was growing up, and it was the honor of a lifetime to learn from him. Having my hero take me under his wing was one of the greatest moments of my life and my career. How did I get so lucky to kneel at the feet of the master for 2 decades?" Bublé continued. "Tony, I'll never stop learning from you, and I promise you I'll do my best to keep the music we cherish alive. Rest in peace."

Harry Connick Jr. and John Mayer were also among the celebrities who posted about Bennett.

Connick Jr. wrote, "rest in peace, tony... you changed the world with your voice... thank you for always being so kind to me... i love you and i'll miss you very much..."

Mayer described Bennett as "a true legend" and "a brilliant artist and a soulful, kind and loving human being."

In a statement, President Joe Biden described Bennett as "an American classic."

Bennett earned a whopping 19 Grammys.

The Associated Press reported that in a 1965 Life magazine interview, Frank Sinatra described Bennett as "the best singer in the business."

"For my money, Tony Bennett is the best singer in the business. He excites me when I watch him. He moves me. He's the singer who gets across what the composer has in mind, and probably a little more," Sinatra had said.

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