Gaga and Bennett have been working together for close to ten years. In her young life, that’s a huge swath of time- in his, not so much. She treats him with respect and reverence- honors his long-life experience with her love and support. Gaga’s manners are impeccable. She is sensitive to Tony’s abilities at age 95, to his moods and needs. Her fine upbringing is apparent in the way she treats her family- calling to her father, her parents and stopping to make her sister feel special.
"Love for Sale" album cover as featured in USA Today
When it came time, Gaga introduced the conductor and his orchestra- called them to the curtain call line by name. As the musicians joined the curtain call, they embraced Tony or shook his hand. The skillful entourage that plays the music so Tony and Gaga might sing is respected individually and collectively. There’s a closeness, a friendship and a camaraderie that is thrilling to observe. It’s like watching any team pull together in a common cause and win, or watching any family come together for a happy occasion.
The creative life is not a solo act. It requires empathy and understanding. Good manners are the backbone of kindness. Kindness begets patience. There is beauty and truth in being present for someone who needs us. Tony Bennett had an ease on the stage at this point in his life because he had confidence in Gaga- to guide him through. The emotional memory of past performances is essential to Tony’s ability to perform now. At 95 he remembered all the lyrics, hit the notes and embraced the audience with affection- a lot of that had to do with his able partner Gaga, who shone the light in the dark and led him through.
Gaga’s creative life is built on tradition, memory and spirit regardless of theme. Tony Bennett holds the same ideals sacred in his work. You have a sense that the Benedettos have been singing for centuries. You have a similar feeling about the Germanottas. And, like any great match, when these two come together, their combined talents feel like history of Italy itself- explosive, surprising, adventurous and undeniable.
