Monday, March 9, 2020

In Honor - George Benson



George Benson began playing the guitar at an early age - 8 years old.  He began playing professionally at the age of 21.  

Point of interest -
He was once employed by Miles Davis for the 1968 album, Miles in the Sky and specifically "Paraphernalia."  He also worked with Stevie Wonder for the album, Songs in the Key of Life and specifically "Another Star."

Point of interest -
In September 2013, Benson performed at the Rock in Rio festival in Rio de Janeiro, 35 years after his first performance...also being the inaugural festival.

George Benson's 1974 album, Bad Benson, reached No. 1 on the Billboard Jazz chart.

Benson's 1976 album, Breezin', and most noted track, "This Masquerade," earned him a Grammy Award for Record of the Year (1977).  Breezin' is certified triple-Platinum.

Hit singles include -
"Give Me the Night"
"Love All the Hurt Away"
"Turn Your Love Around"
"Inside Love"
"Lady Love Me"
"20/20"
"Shiver"
"Kisses in the Moonlight"

George Benson Discography -
George Benson has 37 studio albums (as of 1964), 8 live albums (as of 1975), and 21 compilation albums (as of 1976).  (Wikipedia)

George Benson Honors -
Honorary Doctorate of Music (Berklee College of Music, 1990)
Jazz Master - the nation's highest honor in jazz (2009)*
*Recognized by the National Endowment of the Arts
Star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame

George Benson Awards -
In total, George Benson has won 10 Grammy Awards.


In conclusion -

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