album · September 1, 1952

Because of You

Tony Bennett

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jazzrhythm and blues

Tony Bennett’s first number-one hit, "Because of You," is a prime example of the lush, orchestral pop ballads that would define his early career. The song’s soaring melody and Bennett’s earnest delivery made it a staple of 1950s radio.

• "Because of You" reached number one on the Billboard charts and stayed there for ten weeks.
• The song was originally written in 1940 by Arthur Hammerstein and Dudley Phillips.
• This was Tony Bennett's first single released on Columbia Records.

Tony Bennett was an American singer of Italian ancestry, born in Astoria, Queens, New York City. He was a baritone, known for his interpretations of popular standards, show tunes, and big band songs. His recording career began in the late 1940s. At the time of "Because of You," Bennett was in the early stages of his recording career, having just signed with Columbia Records. This single marked his first major commercial success and established him as a rising star in popular music.