Antonia Bennett talks about her latest album and iconic father Tony Bennett
Antonia Bennett’s latest album, Expressions, offers a delightful mix of well-known classics, hidden treasures, and original compositions, presented in a mellow and captivating light jazz fashion, paying homage to the American Songbook. Antonia Bennett, the daughter of legendary multi-Grammy award winner Tony Bennett, shares insights into her life immersed in musical royalty and iconic celebrities of the past. Surrounded by the likes of Ella Fitzgerald, Rosemary Clooney, and Count Basie, Antonia Bennett’s childhood was a tapestry of musical brilliance and silver screen entertainment, including stories of watching films starring the endearing Dick Van Dyke, who celebrates his centennial birthday this month. The artist openly discussed over half of the tracks featured on her latest album during her conversation with Goldmine.
In a lighthearted exchange with Goldmine, Antonia Bennett shared glimpses into her life and musical inspirations, revealing that the album cover’s whimsical charm with her standing on a piano bench was a playful nod to her childhood defiance of furniture-climbing restrictions. The lovely bossa nova rendition of “Once I Loved” evokes shades of Astrud Gilberto’s ethereal vocals from the ’60s, a genre that holds a special place in her heart, inspired by Frank Sinatra’s bossa nova collaborations. Antonia’s heartfelt composition, “Baby,” dedicated to her daughter, Maya, captures tender moments and sweet memories shared with her family during a songwriting session in San Francisco.
Antonia Bennett’s reinterpretation of “Comes Love” showcases the timeless allure of classic standards from the American Songbook, a nod to the musical icons of yesteryear like Ella Fitzgerald and Count Basie. Recalling cherished memories of exploring her favorite tracks on vinyl, Antonia reminisced about her visit to Ella’s house, reflecting on the profound connection that physical records and liner notes bring, offering an intimate glimpse into an artist’s craft.
The enchanting composition “Yous Qui Passez Sans Me Voir,” highlighted by Christian Jacob’s artful piano arrangements, showcases Antonia’s seamless integration of diverse musical styles, paying homage to French roots while adding a contemporary twist. Collaborating with guest producer Moshe Wolf and vocalist David Thomas, her rendition of “Wherever You Go” exudes a soothing melody reminiscent of the soft A&M Records sound, reminiscent of iconic acts like The Carpenters.
In a poignant finale, Antonia Bennett’s original composition, “See You on the Other Side,” echoes themes of motherhood, legacy, and love, drawing inspiration from personal experiences and reflections on the late, great Rosemary Clooney. Drawing from her memories of Rosemary’s wisdom and humor, the track offers a heartfelt ode to the complexities of balancing career aspirations with family responsibilities, resonating with universal themes of love, loss, and resilience.
As Antonia Bennett continues to carve her niche in the world of jazz and the Great American Songbook, her album, Expressions, stands as a testament to her musical heritage, personal storytelling, and unwavering dedication to preserving the timeless essence of jazz standards. Through her melodic interpretations, original compositions, and heartfelt reflections, Antonia Bennett’s Expressions captivates listeners, inviting them on a soul-stirring journey through the rich tapestry of musical history and personal revelations.