Keep Memory Alive's 20th annual Power of Love gala continues to grow as musical icons from all genres join the celebration of legendary performer and 18-time GRAMMY winner Tony Bennett's 90th birthday on Saturday, May 21, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
In honor of Bennett’s milestone birthday celebration, musical stars from an eclectic mix of genres will take the stage to perform some of the timeless hits Bennett has recorded in his 70-year career. Joining the line up are: contemporary jazz trumpeter and GRAMMY winner Chris Botti; actor, writer, producer and host of THE LATE LATE SHOW on CBS James Corden; American soul and R&B singer/songwriter and GRAMMY nominee Andra Day; 14-time GRAMMY winner and American musical icon Herbie Hancock; music legend and celebrated producer Quincy Jones; multi-platinum jazz star and 5-time GRAMMY winner Diana Krall; piano prodigy and budding pop sensation Dan Orlando; chart-topping country music artist Darius Rucker; and global superstar Steven Tyler.
“I came from a musical family, I grew up on songs like ‘I left My Heart in San Francisco’ and ‘Shadow of your Smile.’ To now be singing for him on his 90th birthday is something that is truly an honor,” said Tyler. “Tony’s voice is timeless and one that I hold very near and dear to my heart.”
“I feel honored and privileged every time I get to step out on stage and perform with Tony Bennett, whose voice is as iconic and timeless as ever,” Botti said.
“Tony Bennett is an iconic jazz legend,” said Day. “It’s an honor to perform for him on such a special birthday.”
“A timeless talent that is ever-young, vibrant and gracious. Tony’s life-force is strong and respectful of others. His actions musically and in his daily life are a testament to the value of inclusion. He’s a great encouragement to the younger generation and continually lifts everyones spirits,” said Hancock. “As a musician and a human being, Tony is a shining light. He’s the best of the best.”
One of the most celebrated entertainers in the world, Bennett has thrilled sold-out audiences worldwide for decades, selling ten million records in the last ten years alone. Known for timeless hits including “The Way You Look Tonight,” and “It Don’t Mean a Thing If You Ain’t Got That Swing,” the 20th annual Power of Love gala will bring together musical artists to pay tribute to his musical genius in a celebration of song and philanthropy.
The Power of Love gala, began in 1996 as an evening dedicated to fighting the ravages of Alzheimer’s disease with the founding of Keep Memory Alive by Larry Ruvo in honor of his father, Lou. Since that night it’s blossomed into a celebration known for partnering with some of the most celebrated chefs and entertainers in the industry for an evening of philanthropy, while raising awareness and funds for Keep Memory Alive in support of the Cleveland Clinic Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health.
Previous Power of Love galas have celebrated the 70th birthday of boxing legend Muhammad Ali in 2012 and the 80th birthday celebration for Quincy Jones and Sir Michael Caine in 2013. Last year’s gala hosted some of the biggest names in the entertainment industry including Celine Dion, Martina McBride, Robin Thicke and more as they honored Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli and his wife Veronica. Generating the bulk of Keep Memory Alive’s revenue, the annual gala is imperative to the success of Keep Memory Alive and the Lou Ruvo Center for Brain Health in the mission to enhance treatments and research of brain diseases.
Tickets now on sale at keepmemoryalive.org/pol. For all other inquiries, please contact events@keepmemoryalive.org or call 702.263.9797.
