Oct. 24, 2007 — George Benson, the jazz guitarist who wrote "The Greatest Love of All," "This Masquerade" and "Give Me the Night," will bring his smooth style to the Reichhold Center for the Arts at 8 p.m. Nov. 29.
Born in Pittsburgh, Penn., Benson began his recording career at age 21 as a jazz guitarist with his first album, The New Boss Guitar, in 1964. Between 1964 and 1975, Benson released almost 20 jazz albums.
In 1976, Benson's Breezin' became the first jazz album to go platinum. The album also ushered in a new audience for Benson with his number one hit "This Masquerade" on the pop, jazz and R&B charts. The title track, "Breezin'," became Benson's signature jazz tune.
Along with "This Masquerade," other songs written or performed by Benson that reached the top of the charts include "On Broadway," "Give Me the Night," and "Turn Your Love Around." His other popular songs include "Lady Love Me (One More Time)," "In Your Eyes," "Love X Love" and "Never Give up on a Good Thing."
Benson is a major influence on many young musicians. He recorded the original version of "The Greatest Love of All" in 1977. The song later became a smash for Whitney Houston. Benson's 2004 album Irreplaceable included music written by R&B star Joe and the song, "Whole Man," co-produced by Hakin Bell, son of Kool and the Gang founder Robert "Kool" Bell. Benson has also collaborated with Mary J. Blige, Chris Botti and Jill Scott, among others.
He has also shared the stage and studio with some of the greatest names in music, such as pianist Joe Sample and soul legend Aretha Franklin. During his early career, Benson played alongside Miles Davis and his mentor, Wes Montgomery.
In 2006, Benson teamed with jazz powerhouse and crossover artist Al Jarreau on Givin' It Up, featuring covers of songs by Sam Cooke, Billie Holiday and others. The pair also made new arrangement of each others' biggest hits — Jarreau adding lyrics to "Breezin'," while Benson delivers a lovely instrumental version of Jarreau's hit "Mornin'." The album garnered two Grammy Awards.
In Benson's 40-plus years in the music business, he has released more than 50 albums. Benson is also a 10-time Grammy Award winner. He received an honorary doctorate degree of music from the Berklee College of Music in 1990. In 2007, the Society of Singers awarded him the Satchmo Award, named for jazz legend Louis Armstrong.
George Benson's performance at Reichhold Center is sponsored by First Bank, First Insurance, Marriott Frenchman's Reef Resort, Tropical Shipping, the V.I. Council on the Arts and Innovative Cable TV.
Tickets are $35, $45 and $55. Tickets are available at Modern Music, the UVI Bookstore, V.I. Bridal & Tuxedo, Urban Threadz, Essentric Shoe Boutique, Island Video (Nisky), Home Again (Red Hook) and the Reichhold Center Box Office by calling 693-1559.
