NEWSWatch Amy Winehouse VMAs Tribute: Russell Brand, Tony Bennett & Bruno Mars Honor Singer
Aug. 29 2011, Published 8:16 a.m. ET
Amy Winehouse was remembered in a moving tribute on Sunday's MTV VMAs. Her pal Russell Brand opened up the tribute by talking a bit about Amy's captivating vocals and the first time he heard them. Then legend Tony Bennett revealed a clip of his duet with the singer, followed by Bruno Mars' cover of "Valerie," bringing tears to the audience.
Russell spoke about his love for Amy and her overwhelming talent, saying “it became evident upon hearing that divine voice that she was a genius.”
Tony shared a sneak peek of a video of his recording of "Body and Soul" — from his Duets II album — with Amy, taped on March 23, 2011.
The Grammy-winner looked happy and healthy as she delivered powerful vocals in her soulful voice.
Bruno ended the tribute, by paying homage to Amy through song.
He delivered a a spirited, uplifting performance, of the song "Valerie" made famous by the British songstress and Mark Ronson.
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Amy died in her London home on July 23, 2011. She was only 27.
VIDEO: WATCH 2011 MTV VMAS RECAP — JAY-Z & KANYE WEST PERFORM; LADY GAGA BRINGS JO CALDERONE
After the tribute, Tony told MTV backstage that he wished he could have stopped Amy from her tragic demise.
"I can say this now — I didn't want to say it on the show," he shared. "What I wanted to do, I wanted to stop her, I wanted to tell her that many years ago I was naughty also with some drugs."
