Tony Bennett Statement on the Passing of Amy Winehouse

NEW YORK, July 23, 2011 /PRNewswire/ -- Singer Tony Bennett, who recorded the classic pop standard "Body And Soul" with Amy Winehouse at Abbey Road Studios in London this past March, made the following statement upon news of her passing:

"Amy Winehouse was an artist of immense proportions and I am deeply saddened to learn of her tragic passing. She was an extraordinary musician with a rare intuition as a vocalist and I am truly devastated that her exceptional talent has come to such an early end.  She was a lovely and intelligent person and when we recorded  together she gave a soulful and extraordinary performance. I was honored to have the opportunity to sing with her. It had been my sincere hope that she would be able to overcome the issues she was battling and I send my deepest sympathy to her father Mitchell, her entire family and all of those who loved her."

SOURCE RPM/Columbia Records