George Benson

George Benson, born on March 22, 1943, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is an extraordinary figure in the realm of jazz, R&B, and pop music. With a career spanning over six decades, Benson's silky smooth voice, exceptional guitar skills, and innovative style have left an indelible mark on the music world.

Early Life and Career

Benson's musical journey began at a tender age, revealing his prodigious talent:

• At age 7, he played ukulele and earned money at a local drugstore.
• By age 8, he was performing guitar at a nightclub.
• At age 9, he recorded tunes with RCA Victor.
• At age 10, "She Makes Me Mad" became his first single with RCA's Groove Records label.

Influenced by giants such as Charlie Parker and Nat King Cole, Benson opted to leave Connelley Vocational High School to pursue music full-time. His teenage years included forming a rock band and discovering jazz.

Early Professional Career

Benson's professional debut as a jazz guitarist in the 1960s marked the start of his illustrious career:

• At 19, he toured with organist Jack McDuff.
• His debut album, "The New Boss Guitar," featured McDuff and released when Benson was 21.
• Moving to New York City in 1965, he established his band and was signed to Columbia Records by John Hammond.

Collaborating with jazz luminaries like Herbie Hancock and Miles Davis, Benson's albums such as "It's Uptown" and "Shape of Things to Come" cemented his reputation as a talented jazz guitarist.

Rise to Mainstream Success

Incorporating R&B and pop elements in the 1970s, Benson's music saw commercial triumphs:

• "Bad Benson" (1974) was a hit on CTI Records.
• "Breezin'" (1976) was the first jazz album to reach platinum status and topped the Billboard chart.
• The single "This Masquerade" won a Grammy.

His transition to smooth jazz and R&B brought forth hits like "On Broadway" and "Give Me the Night."

Later Career

Continuing his artistic journey, Benson has remained active through subsequent decades:

• Successful albums throughout the 1980s and 1990s.
• Honored as a Jazz Master in 2009 by the National Endowment for the Arts.
• Tribute albums released for Nat King Cole and Fats Domino.

His enduring influence is evident as he continues to perform globally.

Musical Style and Influence

Benson's unique style is marked by:

• A fusion of jazz, R&B, pop, and soul.
• Scat singing synchronized with guitar solos.
• Rest-stroke picking technique.

His contribution to music significantly influenced emerging guitarists like Lee Ritenour.

Accolades

Benson's extensive list of accolades includes:

• 10 Grammy Awards
• Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
• 2009 NEA Jazz Master

His influential status in music is recognized with an honorary doctorate from Berklee College of Music.

Discography Highlights

With over 30 studio albums, notable works include:

• "The New Boss Guitar" (1964)
• "Breezin'" (1976)
• "Give Me the Night" (1980)
• "Tenderly" (1989)
• "Inspiration: A Tribute to Nat King Cole" (2013)

Personal Life

George Benson married his wife Johnnie in 1965, with whom he has seven sons. Residing in Englewood, New Jersey, he continues to lead a life enriched by music.

Sources

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Benson
• https://music.apple.com/us/artist/george-benson/1523080
• https://www.bobbybroom.com/2021/12/jazz-guitar-hero-george-benson/
• https://www.udiscovermusic.com/artist/george-benson/
• https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Benson
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/GeorgeBensondiscography
• https://www.allaboutjazz.com/george-benson-finding-his-groove-in-inspiration-george-benson-by-belinda-ware
• https://www.arts.gov/honors/jazz/george-benson
• https://pabook.libraries.psu.edu/literary-cultural-heritage-map-pa/bios/benson__george
• https://www.georgebenson.com