Throwback To When Tim McGraw & Tony Bennett Sang Hank Williams’ “Cold, Cold Heart”

Tony Bennett Once Sang Hank Williams’ “Cold, Cold Heart” As A Duet With Tim McGraw

Hank Williams released his original recording of his self-penned song “Cold, Cold Heart” in February 1951. His recording reached the #1 spot on the Hot Country Singles chart.

Just five months later, pop crooner Tony Bennett released his rendition of “Cold, Cold Heart.” He performed the track in his distinct style, and it was a smash success.

Bennett’s version reached the #1 spot on the chart, and remained on the chart for a total of 27 weeks. His recording helped introduce Williams and his music to a wider audience than ever before.

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Bennett had the opportunity to sing “Cold, Cold Heart” at the Grand Ole Opry in the 1950s. He described the experience in his autobiography The Good Life.

The Opry house musicians weren’t sure how to play his arrangement because of their different instruments. They told him, “You sing and we’ll follow you.” They did exactly that, and Bennett said their performance was wonderful.

Bennett remained connected to country music throughout his decades-long career. Years after recording “Cold, Cold Heart,” he remade the song with Tim McGraw for his 2006 album, Duets: An American Classic.

Tim McGraw Called His “Cold, Cold Heart” Duet With Tony Bennett A “Highlight” Of His Career

A video on Bennett’s official YouTube channel shows Bennett and McGraw singing “Cold, Cold Heart” in the studio. The video contains clips of the singers sharing what it was like to work together.

“…to be here tonight, in New Jersey, and to be singing a Hank Williams song with Tony Bennett, it’s got to be the highlight of my career so far,” McGraw said.

McGraw admitted how nervous he was to sing “Cold, Cold Heart” with Bennett. The elder singer told him that was fine, because his nerves showed that he cared. Bennett went on to offer some high praise, telling McGraw he did “fantastic.”

Watch Bennett and McGraw’s “Cold, Cold Heart” duet in the video below. It’s a true treasure.