George Benson, a master of the jazz guitar, has carved a unique niche in the music industry. His exploration of various genres, ranging from soul jazz and hard bop to pop and R&B, showcases his supreme taste, skill, and creativity. In this article, we will delve into the life, career, and achievements of this remarkable musician.
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Table of Contents
Who is George Benson?
George Benson is an American guitarist, singer, and songwriter, renowned for his rest-stroke picking technique on the guitar, reminiscent of famous Gypsy Jazz players like Django Reinhardt. A child prodigy, he rose to fame in the 1960s and has since become a legend in both jazz and pop music.
George Benson Bio
| Information | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | George Benson |
| Profession | Musician |
| Date of Birth | March 22, 1943 |
| Age | 81 years old (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Ethnicity | African American |
| Zodiac Sign | Aries |
Personal Life
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Marital Status | Married to Johnnie Lee (since 1965) |
| Children | Seven children |
| Residence | Englewood, New Jersey |
| Religion | Jehovah’s Witness |
| Net Worth | $5 million (approx as of 2024) |
Physical Attributes
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Height | 6 feet 1 inch |
| Weight | 176 lbs (approx) |
| Eye Color | Brown |
| Hair Color | Black |
How old is George Benson and where was he born?
81 years old (as of 2024)
Born on March 22, 1943, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, George Benson is 81 years old as of 2024. His parents were Irma Benson and Charles Evans. Raised in a musical household, he started playing the ukulele and guitar at an early age, showcasing his talent in various local venues.
Career Beginnings
Benson’s professional career kicked off at 19 as a jazz guitarist. He recorded his first album, “The New Boss Guitar,” at 21 and subsequently worked with notable artists like Miles Davis and Freddie Hubbard. His early recordings, including the notable ‘She Makes Me Mad’, set the stage for a remarkable career.
Career Highlights
| Milestone | Description |
|---|---|
| First Album | “The New Boss Guitar” (1964) |
| Breakthrough Album | “Breezin'” (1976) |
| Notable Collaborations | Miles Davis, Jack McDuff, Minnie Riperton, Stevie Wonder |
| Grammy Awards | 10-time winner |
| Unique Skill | Rest-stroke picking technique on guitar |
| Career Span | 1960s to present |
| Musical Styles | Jazz, Pop, R&B, Soul |
How did George Benson get famous?
Benson’s fame skyrocketed in the 1970s when he transitioned to pop and R&B. His album ‘Breezin” in 1976, featuring the Grammy-winning single ‘This Masquerade’, topped the charts. This marked the beginning of a series of successful albums and singles that blended jazz with more mainstream genres.
Professional Achievements
| Achievement | Details |
|---|---|
| Honorary Doctorate | Berklee College of Music (1990) |
| Jazz Master Award | National Endowment for the Arts (2009) |
| Collaboration with Gorillaz | Featured in the single “Humility” |
| Impact on Music Industry | Influential in Jazz and Pop music, recognized as a guitar legend |
Do George Benson have kids?
George Benson married Johnnie Lee in 1965 and together they have six sons: Robert, Marcus, Christopher, Stephen, George Jr, and Johnnie Jr. He also had a son named Keith Givens from a previous marriage.
George Benson Net Worth
$5 million
As of 2024, George Benson’s net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. This wealth is attributed to his successful music career, spanning several decades with numerous albums and awards.
The Jazz Guitarist’s Melodic Wealth
Benson’s melodic wealth extends beyond financial gains. His impact on music, particularly in jazz and pop, is profound. A ten-time Grammy Award winner, Benson is celebrated for his versatility and ability to connect with a wide range of audiences.
When did George Benson come out?
In 1964, George Benson recorded his debut album, “The New Boss Guitar,” featuring McDuff on the organ. After a fruitful four-year collaboration with McDuff, Benson embarked on a solo journey, relocating to New York City, the epicenter of the jazz world at the time.
What happened to George Benson’s son?
Throughout his life, George Benson has experienced significant personal tragedies. He has mourned the loss of three of his sons, each due to different heartbreaking circumstances.
One son passed away due to kidney failure, another tragically succumbed to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS), and a third, his 29-year-old son Keith Givens, was tragically lost to gun violence, fatally shot outside a Pittsburgh bar in 1991.
Is George Benson touring the UK in 2024?
The series of performances spans five nights, featuring two special evenings at the esteemed Royal Albert Hall in London.
Conclusion
George Benson’s legacy in the music industry is indisputable. His journey from a child prodigy to a revered jazz guitarist and his foray into pop and R&B have marked him as one of the most talented and versatile musicians of our time.
FAQs about George Benson Bio, Net Worth: The Jazz Guitarist’s Melodic Wealth
- What are some of George-Benson’s most famous songs?
Some of his biggest hits include ‘Breezin”, ‘Give Me the Night’, ‘Turn Your Love Around’, and ‘This Masquerade’. - What is George-Benson famous for?
He is famous for his unique guitar playing style and his seamless blending of jazz with pop and R&B genres. - What challenges did George-Benson face in his early life?
Born out of wedlock and raised by a single mother, Benson faced numerous challenges, including financial struggles and racial discrimination. - How has George-Benson influenced music?
Benson has greatly influenced jazz and pop music, known for his innovative guitar techniques and soulful voice. - What are some key achievements of George-Benson’s career?
His achievements include winning ten Grammy Awards, having a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, and influencing generations of musicians.
