Benson, George (1943-…), is an American guitarist and singer who has achieved success both as a jazz musician and a pop vocalist. Benson’s swinging, bluesy style has made him one of the leading jazz guitarists of his time. Benson also established himself as a singer of pop songs in the manner of Nat King Cole.
Benson was born on March 22, 1943, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He organized his own rock band at the age of 17. During the 1960’s, he performed in a jazz quartet led by organist Jack McDuff. Benson played with his own quartet beginning in 1965. He also recorded with such jazz stars as Miles Davis, Herbie Hancock, Freddie Hubbard, and Lee Morgan during that time.
During the 1970’s, Benson began recording vocals of romantic songs. He had his first hit in “This Masquerade,” a selection from his popular album Breezin’ (1976). His other vocal hits include “The Greatest Love of All” (1977), “On Broadway” (1977), “Love Ballad” (1979), “Love X Love” (1980), and “20/20” (1984). Benson also maintained his jazz roots in the 1980’s and 1990’s by recording with the bands of Count Basie and jazz guitarist Earl Klugh, among others. Benson: The Autobiography was published in 2014.
