Lady Gaga wows with jazz performance during emotional Tony Bennett tribute at the Grammys

Taking to the Grammy Awards stage at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas yesterday, Lady Gaga performed a tender tribute to her longtime friend and frequent collaborator Tony Bennett, after he retired from music last year following his Alzheimer's diagnosis.

The legendary crooner also made a rare pre-recorded appearance at the annual awards ceremony with a short introduction of Gaga, before blowing her a kiss.

The New York-born superstar took things from there, belting out a high-energy performance of 'Love for Sale' with a big band arrangement, before segueing into an emotional piano-filled rendition of 'Do I Love You.' 

As she sang, the screen filled with countless photos of Gaga and Bennett together over the years.

"I love you, Tony, we miss you," Gaga said at the song's conclusion, with a close-up on her face showing signs of tears.

Ahead of the performance, Bennett's family released a statement saying the 95-year-old would not be joining Gaga at the Grammys.

Bennett's son Danny said: "Although the producers had invited both Tony and Gaga to perform in Sunday's Grammys broadcast, it is unfortunate that due to his continuing struggle with Alzheimer’s, he was not able to accept. It was decided that it would be fitting for Lady Gaga to perform on her own to represent for both of them.

"There is no doubt, that she will offer up an impeccable performance from Love for Sale, which is Tony’s final album. He will be cheering her on as he watches from his home in New York City."

Gaga and Bennett were nominated for five Grammys this year, including Album of the Year and Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album for Love for Sale.