Most people don’t tour the country when they’re 91, but then again, most people aren’t Tony Bennett. The legendary jazz show tunes singer graced the Moody Theater once again on April 29, providing a magical and unforgettable evening.

Story by Hayli Rudolph

The evening kicked off with none other than Antonia Bennett, Tony Bennett’s youngest daughter. She came to the stage with as much grace and beauty as any would expect, being raised by the gentleman himself.

“I think I have the best job in the whole world. I get to travel the world with my dad,” Antonia said.

Antonia’s smooth jazz voice was a quintessential introduction to her father’s set. As she moved closer to the band, she leaned against the black piano, as if it was an accessory to her black dress with small diamonds that glistened in the light. The whole performance felt like a glimpse into the past. It felt special.

As the room grew quiet when Antonia exited the stage, a recording of a familiar voice echoed in the venue. “Tony’s gonna come on now, and he’s gonna tear the seats out of the place for you, because he’s my man, this cat. I said it publicly in print and I’ll say it again: He’s the greatest singer in the world today, this man… Mr. Tony Bennett! Thank you very much,” a message from Frank Sinatra.

The legend himself shuffled to center stage as the audience stood from their seats. The sweet old man wore a navy blue suit accompanied with a classic red tie and a white handkerchief in the his left jacket pocket. Bennett and his quartet started the set off with “Watch What Happens.”

Bennett’s magnificent voice clearly transported some fans to younger days. An older woman morphed into a teen girl, screaming for her favorite artist as she danced in her seat to every song. Another fan yelled, “We love you Tony!” several times throughout the evening.

Every song felt like the beginning of a wise and lovely conversation. His voice felt romantic, like each word was written as part of a love letter. You don’t hear music or musicians quite like this anymore, so everyone took moment was savored by the audience.

Bennett played numerous covers like “Steppin’ Out With My Baby”, “For Once In My Life” and of course the famous cover of “The Way You Look Tonight.” As he made his way through the set, he introduced his band followed by a brief instrument solo by each musician.

By the end of the night, Bennett got not one, not three, but six standing ovations. And as if the night couldn’t be anymore nostalgic and outstanding, Bennett gave the audience a final treat. He performed his last song, “Fly Me to the Moon” without a microphone, accompanied by a single spot light. The standing crowd cheered, but quickly hushed itself to better hear the remarkable vocals of Tony Bennett.

Tony Bennett is one of the greatest singers of all time and his show at the Moody Theater was nothing short of greatness.