Tony Bennett, the globally renowned singer whose voice became the embodiment of the American Songbook, died on July 21 at the age of 96. Ralph Sharon was Bennett’s pianist on numerous recordings and live performances.

“He always says, ‘I’m not a jazz singer,’ but he has a great feel for a beat,” Sharon told NPR in 1998. 

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Who was Ralph Sharon?

Ralph Sharon was born in London, England, to a British mother and a Latvian-born father. In early 1954, he moved to the United States.

In 1958, Ralph Sharon’s career took a significant turn as he began recording with Tony Bennett as his accompanist. This collaboration marked the beginning of a remarkable working relationship that lasted for over 50 years. As Bennett’s trusted “man behind the music,” Sharon played an important role in many of Bennett’s Grammy Award-winning studio recordings and accompanied him on numerous tours.

One of the most memorable moments in their partnership was when Sharon came across the song “I Left My Heart in San Francisco.” He had initially placed the sheet music in a bureau and forgot about it until he rediscovered it while packing for a tour that included San Francisco. Although both Bennett and Sharon liked the song, they had reservations, believing it might only become a local hit. To their astonishment, the tune went on to become Tony Bennett’s iconic signature song, leaving an indelible mark on his illustrious career.

Ralph Sharon was a highly accomplished jazz pianist, recognized for his own series of remarkable albums. However, he gained even greater renown as an exceptional accompanist, providing his musical support to a roster of renowned singers, including the likes of Tony Bennett, Robert Goulet, Chris Connor, and numerous others. His piano skills and artistry enriched their performances, earning him a reputation as one of the finest accompanists in the music industry.

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After retiring from his on-the-road work with Tony Bennett when the legendary singer reached the age of 80, Ralph Sharon settled down in Boulder, Colorado. Despite stepping away from extensive touring, he remained actively engaged in his passion for music. Sharon continued to perform in the Denver metropolitan area, showcasing his exceptional talent as a jazz pianist.

Tony Bennett and the Ralph Sharon Trio collaborated in various jazz venues, with notable performances at places like Dazzle Restaurant & Lounge in Denver.

Ralph Sharon died on March 31, 2015, due to natural causes.