Tony Bennett -- Duets (an American Classic) Easy Piano

by Jan Sanborn

Since you've been playing through Bennett's interpretations of classic standards, Steyn's exploration of how these songs became the backbone of American culture will deepen your appreciation for what makes them endure. He writes about the composers, lyricists, and singers with the affection of someone who genuinely loves the music—not as nostalgia, but as living art.

by Patti Smith

This is my surprise pick for you: Smith's memoir captures the same spirit of artistic collaboration and mentorship that runs through the Duets album, but from a punk-rock perspective in 1970s New York. Her prose has a lyrical quality—she writes about music and partnership the way a musician plays, with rhythm and emotional precision.

by Unknown

Here's an unexpected angle: Alexander explores how the mathematical patterns in jazz mirror the patterns in physics, which gives you a completely different lens for understanding why certain musical combinations work so beautifully together—like why Bennett's voice harmonizes so perfectly with each guest artist.

by Stephen T. Sinatra

Kaplan's biography reads like a masterclass in how a singer shapes a song—Sinatra's approach to phrasing and interpretation directly influenced Bennett's own artistry. You'll recognize echoes of techniques and choices throughout the Duets album when you understand Sinatra's philosophy of singing.

by Hal Blaine

This 2012 book tells the story of the session musicians who played on countless hits, which connects beautifully to your experience with Duets—it's really about how great music happens through collaboration between artists who respect each other's craft. Hartman captures that same spirit of ensemble work that makes Bennett's album special.