Bennett began singing at an early age. He fought in the final stages of World War II as a U.S. Army infantryman in the European Theater. Afterward, he developed his singing technique, signed with Columbia Records and had his first number-one popular song with "Because of You" in 1951. Several tracks such as "Rags to Riches" followed in early 1953. He then refined his approach to encompass jazz singing. He reached an artistic peak in the late 1950s with albums such as The Beat of My Heart and Basie Swings, Bennett Sings. In 1962, Bennett recorded his signature song, "I Left My Heart in San Francisco". His career and personal life experienced an extended downturn during the height of the rock music era. Bennett staged a comeback in the late 1980s and 1990s, putting out gold record albums again and expanding his reach to the MTV generation while keeping his musical style intact.
Bennett continued to create popular and critically praised work into the 21st century. He attracted acclaim for his collaborations with Lady Gaga, which began with the album Cheek to Cheek (2014); the two performers toured together to promote the album throughout 2014 and 2015. With the release of the duo's second album, Love for Sale (2021), Bennett broke the individual record for the longest span of top-10 albums on the Billboard 200 chart for any living artist; his first top-10 record was I Left My Heart in San Francisco in 1962. Bennett also broke the Guinness World Record for the oldest person to release an album of new material, at the age of 95 years and 60 days.
Bennett has amassed numerous accolades throughout his career, including 19 Grammy Awards and two Primetime Emmy Awards. He was named an NEA Jazz Master and a Kennedy Center Honoree. Bennett has sold over 50 million records worldwide.
In February 2021, it was revealed that Bennett was diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease in 2016. Due to the slow progression of his illness, he continued to record, tour, and perform until his retirement from concert performances in August 2021 due to physical challenges.
Bennett died in New York City on Friday, July 21, 2023, at the age of 96. His death was announced by his publicist.
When Do The Bells Ring For Me?
Tony Bennett Lyrics
Jump to: Overall Meaning ↴ Line by Line Meaning ↴
When someone tugs a heart string for me
When does it come my time
When does the poem rhyme
When do the songs they sing, sing for me
To those who say hey, wake up and feel life
I say, I'm ready, just show me the way
Welcome to real life
And I'll stay, I'll stay
How many parties more can I run to
How many little loves can there be
For it's all a bore
Forget it, I want more
I want someone to want more of me
Like making promises, good in the daylight
The thing is here am I, where is she
When is it my chance
When is it my dance
When do the bells ring for me
Tony Bennett's song "When Do The Bells Ring For Me" is a song that deeply explores the feelings of longing and anticipation for a meaningful relationship. The first verse begins with the singer questioning when his time will come to experience a deeper connection with someone. He wonders when his heart will be tugged and when the songs that are played will sing for him. The metaphor of ringing bells symbolizes the arrival of that special someone in his life who will bring harmony and joy.
The second verse has a sense of urgency, as the singer is tired of the shallow experiences of life and is ready for something more profound. He wants to be welcomed into the real world by loving arms and wants someone who wants more of him. The lyrics suggest that the singer is willing to make promises and make himself vulnerable to find that deeper connection.
The chorus repeats the main question, "When do the bells ring for me," which emphasizes the singer's desire for that special someone. The lyrics express a certain level of self-doubt but also show that the singer is willing to take a leap of faith and embrace whatever comes his way.
Overall, "When Do The Bells Ring For Me" is a poignant love song that captures the yearning and hope that comes with seeking a meaningful relationship.
Line by Line Meaning
I wonder when the bells ring for me
I am eagerly waiting for a special moment when everything falls in place and brings happiness and satisfaction to my life.
When someone tugs a heart string for me
I am eagerly waiting for someone to connect with me on an emotional level and make me feel loved and valued.
When does it come my time
I am curious to know when my time to shine and make my dreams come true will arrive.
When does the poem rhyme
I am eagerly waiting for inspiration to come to me and help me create something meaningful and beautiful.
When do the songs they sing, sing for me
I am eagerly waiting for music to touch my heart and soul and bring me joy and comfort.
To those who say hey, wake up and feel life
Some people tell me to stop dreaming and start living in the reality of life.
I say, I'm ready, just show me the way
I am willing to take action and make the most of my life if someone can guide me to the right path.
Show me those arms that say
I need someone who can embrace me and make me feel secure and loved.
Welcome to real life
I want to be a part of something real and meaningful that brings positivity and happiness to my life.
And I'll stay, I'll stay
If someone can give me what I am looking for, I am willing to stay and enjoy the precious moments of life with them.
How many parties more can I run to
I am tired of attending meaningless parties and events that do not bring any real value to my life.
How many little loves can there be
I am tired of meaningless relationships that do not bring any real love or happiness to my life.
For it's all a bore
All these superficial things are not fulfilling my true desires and aspirations.
Forget it, I want more
I want something substantial and meaningful that brings real joy and satisfaction to my life.
I want someone to want more of me
I am looking for someone who can appreciate and value me for who I am and wants to share their life with me.
Like making promises, good in the daylight
I want someone who can keep their word and be true to their promises even when things get tough.
The thing is here am I, where is she
I am ready and waiting for someone special to come into my life and share my hopes and dreams.
When is it my chance
I am eagerly waiting for my opportunity to make a difference and create something meaningful and beautiful.
When is it my dance
I am eagerly waiting for my chance to shine and express myself through dance and music.
When do the bells ring for me
I am eagerly waiting for a special moment when everything falls in place and brings happiness and satisfaction to my life.
Lyrics © O/B/O APRA AMCOS
Lyrics Licensed & Provided by LyricFind
Jay Barbara
Rest in Peace Tony, keep singing that golden voice in heaven! ❤
Eric González
Rest in peace Mr. Tony Bennett, thank you for all your music.
Pamela Cossey
A true classic! Just love this song. Love Tony Bennett💜
M.J. Leger
Oh, what a beautiful song, and I doubt anyone could do it better than Tony! Thanks for posting the other great selections also. Tony is such a jewel!
Joseph Montemurro
How could anyone give this a thumbs down? .No one with an ear for music. This is a fabulous performance. The man is a miracle of music. At 91 he's still singing so well ! God bless Mr. B! Cent'anni!
Esclarmonde 102
Sublime singing from a beautiful man.
David Dingledy
A beautiful rendition by a man with a beautiful voice. Anyone who would give this a thumbs-down must be a heavy metal addict.
elinqoe
Awesome voice, awesome song! I love hearing him hit that high note!
Eddie Wakes Music
What a great voice and great performance by a singular Artist...Tony Bennett!
Richard White
It simply doesn't get better than this . . .