George Benson: A Symphony of Jazz and Soul

George Benson, a titan of jazz and soul guitar, has etched his name into the annals of music history with his silky-smooth playing style and crossover appeal. From his early days as a prodigious jazz instrumentalist to his success as a chart-topping R&B singer, Benson’s career is a testament to his versatility and enduring influence.

George Benson’s Musical Journey

Benson’s journey is a rich tapestry of musical exploration, marked by a seamless blend of jazz complexity and pop sensibility. His albums, such as “Breezin'” and “Give Me the Night,” showcase not only his virtuosic guitar skills but also his soulful voice, making him a unique double threat in the music world. Benson’s ability to infuse traditional jazz guitar with contemporary R&B rhythms has made his music accessible to a wide audience, ensuring his place as a pioneering figure in the fusion of jazz, pop, and soul.

Top Hits Featuring Benson

• “Breezin’” (1976)
  Chart Position: Reached No. 1 on the US Billboard 200.
  Why It Was a Hit: This instrumental became iconic for its smooth, laid-back jazz fusion style. Benson’s octave technique and flawless phrasing set the tone for jazz guitar in the mainstream.
• “Give Me the Night” (1980)
  Chart Position: Peaked at No. 4 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
  Why It Was a Hit: This Quincy Jones-produced track was a perfect blend of Benson’s jazz guitar and smooth R&B vocals, propelling him into pop success.
• “On Broadway” (1978)
  Chart Position: Reached No. 7 on the US Billboard Hot 100.
  Why It Was a Hit: Benson’s rendition of this classic showcased his vocal and guitar prowess, blending jazz and soul for an unforgettable performance.
• “This Masquerade” (1976)
  Chart Position: Peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100.
  Why It Was a Hit: Benson’s combination of rich vocals and smooth jazz guitar earned him a Grammy for this hit, defining his dual talents as a vocalist and instrumentalist.

The George Benson Guitar Technique

Benson’s guitar playing is characterized by its fluidity, precision, and expressive warmth. He is known for his masterful use of octaves and chord-melody style, which allows him to create rich harmonic textures and intricate melodic lines simultaneously. His technique is a study in the art of balancing technical prowess with musicality, making every note and chord resonate with emotion and groove.

Key aspects of Benson’s style include:

• Fluid Octaves: Benson’s signature octave technique, where he plays the same note on two strings an octave apart, creates a fuller, more harmonious sound.
• Chord-Melody Mastery: His ability to weave chords and melodies together seamlessly, often in the context of solo jazz guitar performances, showcases his deep understanding of harmony and melody.
• Expressive Phrasing: Benson’s phrasing breathes life into his solos, with a perfect blend of smooth runs, soulful bends, and rhythmic accents that make his playing instantly recognizable.

Emulating George Benson’s Sound

Achieving Benson’s iconic sound requires a focus on the subtleties of jazz guitar playing, with an emphasis on clean tone, articulation, and the groove that underpins his style. Here are some tips for guitarists looking to capture the essence of Benson’s playing:

• Practice Octave Techniques: Work on playing melodies in octaves to achieve that rich, Benson-esque sound. Start slow with simple scales and gradually increase your speed and complexity. There are many online resources and instructional videos dedicated to this technique.
• Explore Chord-Melody Playing: Delve into the world of chord-melody arrangements to develop the ability to play chords and melodies simultaneously. Look for instructional books or online courses on chord melody playing specifically focused on jazz guitar.
• Focus on Clean Articulation: Ensure that every note is played cleanly and clearly, with attention to dynamics and expression. Pay close attention to palm muting techniques to control unwanted string noise.
• Groove Is Key: Pay close attention to the groove and rhythm of your playing, as Benson’s music always has an infectious, toe-tapping quality. Practice with a metronome or backing tracks to develop a solid sense of time and feel.

George Benson’s Guitar Arsenal

George Benson’s sophisticated musical taste is mirrored in his choice of guitars and gear, known for their exceptional sound quality and playability. Here’s a closer look at some notable pieces from Benson’s collection, each contributing to his signature sound:

Ibanez George Benson GB10EM in Jet Blue Burst: A stunning model that combines classic aesthetics with modern playability, offering the smooth tones Benson is known for.

Ibanez George Benson GB10EM Electric Guitar in Antique Amber: Another variant of the GB10EM, this guitar in Antique Amber offers a vintage look with the same exceptional sound quality.

Ibanez George Benson GB10SEDM Electric Guitar in Sapphire Red: A premium model that features top-notch craftsmanship and a vibrant Sapphire Red finish, offering a luxurious playing experience.

Ibanez George Benson GB10SE Electric Guitar in Brown Sunburst: Renowned for its rich, articulate tone, this guitar is a favorite among jazz guitarists, including Benson himself.

Fender George Benson Hot Rod Deluxe Tube Amp 40W: This tube amp delivers the warm, rich sound that complements Benson’s playing style, perfect for both live performances and studio recordings.

George Benson: Beyond The Strings

George Benson’s influence stretches far beyond the fretboard. His background in visual arts and his keen sense for production have significantly shaped the aesthetic of his music, from album covers to stage presentations, crafting a holistic artistic expression that’s rare in the industry.

Not just a guitarist, Benson is a multifaceted artist whose talents encompass singing, songwriting, and producing. His smooth vocals and catchy compositions have earned him a spot in both the jazz and pop hall of fame, showcasing his ability to bridge genres seamlessly. Beyond his solo work, Benson has collaborated with a range of artists, further demonstrating his versatility and broad musical influence.

Moreover, Benson’s dedication to education and mentorship speaks volumes about his character. He has been involved in various educational programs and workshops, sharing his knowledge and experience with aspiring musicians. This commitment to the growth of the music community underscores Benson’s role not just as a performer, but as a steward of the jazz tradition and an inspiration to countless artists.

In every aspect of his career, George Benson has proven that his artistic vision is not confined to the music he creates. He embodies the true essence of an artist, constantly exploring, innovating, and influencing the world beyond the strings of his guitar.

Final Thoughts: Grooving with a Legend

George Benson’s contributions to guitar music are timeless, and his fusion of jazz, soul, and pop has paved the way for countless musicians. Benson’s innovative playing techniques, soulful vocals, and genre-crossing collaborations have made him a unique and enduring figure in music history. Whether through his fluid guitar work or his captivating performances, Benson has shaped the sound of modern jazz and continues to inspire musicians across genres, ensuring his legacy will live on for generations to come.

For more articles like this, be sure to check out the rest of our Mastering the Iconic Guitar Sound series on the Get My Guitar blog. And if you have your own favorite George Benson tracks or tips on emulating his sound, let us know in the comments below! Keep playing, and keep the music alive!