Like I said in the OP, I know he's been around for a long time. And that he has respect and acclaim.
But how has he changed music? What is his lasting, inedible contribution to music and to art overall? Personally I don't think anyone should be considered a legend without a meaningful contribution to music and performance as art forms (let's think about what being called a "legend" implies and not focus on what the media/industry tells us, try to have some critical thought).
So according to that article he managed to stick around for a long time despite having ups and downs, he sings classic songs written by other people, and he has a good voice. How is that furthering art? I was hoping for an article about how he was some kind of innovative, groundbreaking jazz performer, which is what I had been led to believe by many on this site.
So according to that article he managed to stick around for a long time despite having ups and downs, he sings classic songs written by other people, and he has a good voice. How is that furthering art? I was hoping for an article about how he was some kind of innovative, groundbreaking jazz performer, which is what I had been led to believe by many on this site.
Quote:
Jump ahead 44 years. Who is one of the biggest pop music phenomena of the moment? Tony Bennett has not just bridged the generation gap; he has demolished it. He has solidly connected with a younger crowd weaned on rock. And there have been no compromises.
Well first of all that's a complete lie and exaggeration. But even if it was true, it's not furthering art. Harry Potter made a lot of children get into reading books, does that mean its high art worthy of acclaim? Of course not.
I feel that titles such as icon and legend are often honorary titles. Alexander the Great is legendary. Jesus is legendary. Things and people like that. Hundreds of years later and their stories are still told. I know it's fun to call our faves icons and legends but while they're still alive, it's harder to say. Your death could cement your name in history or your name could die along with you.
I think he's well known to a lot of people. I've known about Tony Bennett for most of my life and I'm by no means a jazz fan. If Tony is still mentioned decades after his death like Elvis or John Legend, then you'd be able to judge. He's alive and doing things so yes his name will be brought up and the industry will respectfully refer to him as a legend. It's what you do to somebody in your field when they've been around forever. It's a sign of respect. And that goes for any career
This thread is too much
