George Benson: The Greatest Guitarist/Singer of All Time

George Benson, a titan of the jazz world, is an artist whose talents defy the confines of genre. With a career spanning over five decades, Benson has enchanted audiences around the globe with his masterful guitar work, uniquely expressive voice, and his innovative blend of jazz, pop, and R&B. A ten-time Grammy Award winner, Benson's journey from the jazz clubs of Pittsburgh to international superstardom is a testament to his relentless dedication, unparalleled skill, and the universal appeal of his music.
I got a chance to interview George at his home in Phoenix Arizona. Here’s my interview.
My Beato Club supporters:
Justin Scott
Terence Mark
Farren Mahjoor
Jason Murray
Lucienne Kilpatrick
Alexander Young
Jason Wagner
Todd Ladner
Rob Kline
Nicholas Long
Tim Benson
Leonardo Martins da Costa Rodrigues
Eddie Perez
David Solomon
MICHAEL JOYCE
Stephen Stubbs
colin stead
Jonathan Wentworth-Linton
Patrick Payne
MATTHEW KARIS
Matthew Barouch
Shaun Samuels
Danny Kurywchak
Gregory Reedy
Sean Coleman
Alexander Verbitskiy
CL Turner
Jason Pappafotis
John Fulford
Margaret Carno
Robert C
David M Combs
Eric Flatt
Reto Spoerli
Herr Moritz Adam
Monte St. Johns
Jon Beezley
Peter DeVault
Eric Nabstedt
Eric Beggs
Rich Germano
Brian Bloom
Peter Pillitteri

[@FrambaleMusic]

George is the greatest…total respect for the amazing man. No one has come close to him. I first saw him live at the State theater in Sydney in 1976, with his iconic Breezin’ band I was 17. I was so completely blown away I could not speak for several hours afterwards. Such a warm and gracious man too. First time I met was in Sydney. I was playing with my band at the Basement club. He called me out of the blue, I thought it was a prank by one of my band mates but it was him. He said “I heard your album Thinking Out Loud” and invited me to the Hilton downtown where he was playing the ballroom in a few nights time. We hung out for a few hours and he played my album and pointed out all the things he liked in real time. I’ll never forget that day. Then a day later he came early to my show and stayed for 2 full shows. I of course acknowledged his presence to the audience. He invited me to his show and somewhere in the middle of his show he acknowledged me to his audience. I was so surprised that he did that. He certainly didn’t have to. That just shows you the character of this kind and gracious man. I have seen him in concert many times over the years and always go backstage after to say “George, you are the greatest” because he his. ♥️♥️♥️😎🙏🙏🙏🎸🎸🎸☀️☀️☀️ Frank G

[@galelongputt]

Wow, Frank Gambale watches Rick's channel. You are one of my guitar heroes! Along with George Benson, of course🎸👍

[@user-iu7go2pd6f]

a rare case where a giant stood on the shoulders of another giant

[@4himsanctified]

Wow!

[@galelongputt]

Of course, you watch Rick's channel. I just remembered your interview with him. I hope you are doing well.

[@DarkSideOfDisney]

Wow, Frank! Those sound like some amazing memories. I'm sure you've also gifted your fans with equally life-changing experiences! You were certainly very kind to me when I met you years ago.

[@claudiojusto5453]

The man dedicated his interview to honoring every colleague who has meant something positive to him. Truly remarkable.

[@LucaMusicBeats]

True🏆🏆

[@MarkBlackburnWPG]

You said it best, CLAUDIO. You and ... @matthewstephenbrown (4 days ago) "Rick, not only is this your best interview. This might be the best interview on KZbin ever."

[@suehollar2578]

My favorite interview yet!

[@melissap9808]

💯

[@New_Czar]

💯Also a true history lesson when he talks about all these music legends. Great interview

[@samferrer]

He tells his life story like a movie ... and one just can't stop listening

[@leonarperro]

Right! I was thinking the same thing when he was telling the story of when he was a kid

[@dilbyjones]

The best.

[@Sams911]

they should make a movie of his life,.

[@ryankfields]

This interview should be required viewing for all people who have ever listened to music.

[@SuperBromberg]

absolutely well put

[@nichols746]

Are want to interview folks..lol😊

[@bobdethomas148]

Mr. Benson was a customer of mine in the late 1980s when I managed a bank branch in Bergen County, New Jersey. He and his wife Johnnie would come into the branch and wait online like anyone else. They never asked for anything special, a rarity in a town known for its affluence and very particular residents. Very humble couple. One day I was coming back from a meeting and didn't know he was behind me walking into the branch. As soon as he started scatting, which he's known for doing on his records, I said to him "There's only one person who sounds like that." He laughed. Such a wonderful man who continues to bless us with his music.

[@user-qh5br9jl9g]

Did he live in Bergen? Where did you work? I'm guessing this was Englewood...

[@curtisprestonsr.7577]

Oh My What A Humble Soul, I had the honor of being in his presence before he sang On Broadway. I worked at MPCS we repaired cameras and Video Tape recorders. And Brought his VCR TO us for repairs from Jersey. I was truly impressed at his genuine down to earth personality . Such a Beautiful Soul, and Wonderful human being.. Loved the Brother and Have enjoyed His Dedication to His Music..

[@theboatmusic]

@@user-qh5br9jl9g Englewood Cliffs. I went to school with his son, who gave me an autographed picture of his father.

[@michaelf.tedescoretoucher9159]

A great interview with a legend and an absolute treasure.

[@user-hb7sm2pz1w]

Watched the great GB in Sitges, Spain, summer 2019. Thank God for Mr Benson. Been listening to him since the 70s.

[@WillaVlogs-jf6zk]

"They thought I was jamming, but I was LISTENING" is probably one of the wisest things I have ever heard as a musician. What a legend.

[@christophermitchum6829]

Beginning of greater days... always stay humble...😎✔️🎶

[@AngelGonzalez-hc4zw]

Agreed!!

[@PabluchoViision]

And Wes Montgomery saying “I can’t teach you, cause I’m too busy trying to learn how to play myself”….. Amazing true modesty of the great ones

[@user-wx8uj4xr2q]

I can did, he is listening to his Muse, God, Nature, or whatever and it comes out in his playing. effortless. Like a conduit.

[@MarkBlackburnWPG]

Don't you love it? .... the way a great observation like this one -- @WillaVlogs-jf6zk (5 days ago) "They thought I was jamming, but I was LISTENING" is probably one of the wisest things I have ever heard as a musician. What a legend." -- how THAT, elicits these great responses! Like questions by Rick Beato: informed, informative, succinct and ... a joy to read!

[@youregoingtobefine]

Being called "Brother" by George Benson would be the greatest moment in anyone's life!

[@Mike_S_68]

“Brother” Benson is still one of Jehovahs Witnesses. Brother is a term the JW’s call each other in an and out of the Kingdom Hall, so when George uses that word towards Rick, it’s from the heart!

[@djtinysa1995]

I had the Honor of Looking after George for a week in Cape Town for one of his South African Tours. What a humble man. I truly think he is an amazing Person. During my Week with him i lost my Cell phone. At the end of the Tour , i was sitting with him waiting for him to board the plane , His manager was checking in there bags at the desk We were alone for about 30 Minutes. He and I had a chat about his Family and mine . He then said i believe you lost your phone. I said yes , was an unfortunate thing to happen. At the time cell phones where pretty expensive. He asked me what would they cost in my country. I said more or less $120 to $150. he SAID OK , Interesting. We chatted some more , small talk , manager arrived and the airline came to collect George and take him to the plane. We greeted each other hugging each other sating our goodbyes. George then slipped his hand into mine , and inside his hand was $200. He said go, get yourself a new phone. What a Gentleman!

[@teflo2]

Totally awesome! Thank you for sharing!

[@wegap2012]

Great story. You lucky man..

[@davidhampshire7723]

Lovely story. It shows the measure of the man. 👍

[@user-pq6ut5ii8v]

I’m 53 years old, I was introduced to his music 🎶 by my late Dad. He used to play Mr George Benson songs very late at night, there’s was no electricity then, he had a record player operating with a car battery 🪫, the battery would die . Early in the morning we had to push his car 🚗 to start 😅😂😂. Thank you for taking me down memory lane. Qedukwazi Radebe from South Africa 🇿🇦🙌🏾👌🎶🎉

[@teflo2]

Your dad was die hard! Gotta love him!

[@GAMERMIKExMONK260]

George Benson is one of the best storytellers ever. Could listen to him for another 2 hours! Amazing interview Rick.

[@richardg8542]

Agreed!!!!!

[@ridgerunner9072]

Sooooo good

[@Sawlon]

Yes!

[@humanactivated1017]

Yep possibly best interview Rick has done , I certainly enjoyed it

[@timbalada312]

Part two!!!

[@kjmav10135]

Rick Beato is the Alan Lomax of our age. You are getting it all on the public record for all of us. Hats off to you, Rick. These interviews are a piece of history.

[@Mar-up7db]

Did you know that a lot of Spaniards into roots music/history know their folk stuff because of Alan Lomax?? Insane.

[@realheadphonecandy]

Absolutely priceless

[@RYwoodview]

Yes indeed. I am so grateful to see & hear all the musicians you share with us, Rick.

[@jacksonvalad8012]

Beautifully said

[@MarkBlackburnWPG]

"These interviews are a piece of history." The simple truth!

[@riddick2k707]

This has to be one of the most important, historical, interviews of an American jazz guitar player, ever. What an incredible, national treasure you’ve encapsulated in just over an hours time, Mr. Beato. Congratulations and thank you. Thank you Mr. Benson for being so gracious and receptive to sharing your life.

[@MrEvestrough]

I took a girl I met in High School on our first date at the Colonial Tavern, Toronto to see George Benson in February 1973 I think it was. We have been married now for 48 years. As well as many other great tunes, he played "Ode to a Kudu" What a memory. What a fine musician.

[@MichaelBirnholz]

I absolutely love this man. I was an assistant engineer when I was 15 years old on George's 20/20 record, recorded at Grandslam Studios in West Orange, NJ. The experience was life changing, and I am SO happy that Rick interviewed him. Bravo George and Rick!

[@outermarker5801]

That is SO cool! 20/20 remains one of my favorites from the Great 80s

[@bluescanfly1981]

@@Wisztrock Can't go wrong with Jim(m)ies either. Having said that I am sure they'd dig George Benson

[@Charlie_Alpha_Echo]

I see you listening the credits. Any stories of the sessions you want to share?

[@RichardDiamond-wz7rs]

I love his 20/20 album. He did it with Michael Sembello. It may be kind of pop, but it's intelligent pop.

[@svenerikgolden7069]

What's amazing if you listen to his live in London album from four years ago is how good and young he still sounds at over 80 years old. He's a genuine guy, he played in Cape Town where I grew up in about 1983 and a friend of my mom's who was a big fan called George's hotel, got through to him and invited him to lunch. George accepted and went to the guy's house for lunch...

[@jCd1058]

My George Benson story: I signed the line to join the Navy in the summer of '76, just after I graduated from HS. I went to the entrance and examination station in Columbus, OH to get my physical exam and raise my right hand to repeat the oath of enlistment. US service members staffed the station as their shore duty, or whatever the other services call it, assignments. The guy who staffed the front desk tuned in WVKO, Columbus's urban music station, on his radio. WVKO repeated Masquerade at least every hour. I spent most of a day there, and I swear I heard George sing that song six times. And I liked it.

[@meadish]

Ladies and gentlemen... I believe after an extensive search of over three decades, we have finally found Guitar George. Thank you Rick.

[@superdupertasty]

he knows ALL the chords...

[@ijkolpkml]

Rick has been killin it with these interviews recently!

[@asb3pe]

Rick may not realize it, but he's as good at this interviewing stuff as the people he's interviewing are at their profession. Rick's music knowledge has set him up perfectly to do this. These interviews are like a blessing from heaven. Thank you Rick!!

[@ophion75]

@@asb3pe amen brother

[@danglenn7454]

I agree, so enjoyable,and historically interesting. George has a perfect way of capsulizing the many events and interactions He has lived. I feel educated and musically wiser just watching this🆒🆒😬👍

[@marcvianello511]

💯 %

[@CareySullivan-cu3fw]

He is good also because he allows them to talk and doesn't interrupt them.

[@kentstallard6512]

I'm a pro musician in the Phoenix area. George drops in frequently to live music venues. Everyone has a photo with him. Great guy, very humble.

[@pitpride1220]

Phoenix proud!

[@ScottJamesLIve]

Nice to hear this and not surprised. I worked with GB in the studio in mid 80's with Tommy LiPuma. GB was a saint of a guy and a brilliant musician. What an experience for a young studio engineer who grew up on his music.

[@kentstallard6512]

​​@@ScottJamesLIveNice! His cover of "You Don't Know What Love Is" with LiPuma is one of my favorites of his catalog.

[@inmitch]

He sure seems cool in every sense here. What a great story.

[@inmitch]

I always appreciate musicians who are humble. George seems so humble here which is what allowed him to continue to perfect his craft. What a great story.

[@rolandlickert2904]

I'm 75 years old and I found Records of G.Benson way back and he opened my mind to what music can be, still, listening to his music today never sounds old or jaded! Great Men with a nice personality.

[@KevinHerbert]

I could not stop smiling listening to this. What a talent, what a storyteller. The world has been blessed

[@NashLinda]

As a long time associate and friend of George’s for 52 years since almost the beginning, (promotion manager at both CTI and Warner Bros.) this was one of the best interviews with George I’ve ever seen! You got him to express and reminisce his career with great comfort, joy and glee. I know he is as pleased with it as anyone watching.

[@BillBene67]

Agree. Great interview. That is awesome that you had the blessing to work with George. He is such a legend and seems like such a nice guy

[@DavidNWalker]

I'm 67 years old and burst into tears watching this wonderful interview. WOW.

[@BestFitSquareChannel]

Me too… at 74… 🌞🥂

[@uuushoben8638]

ya'll crybabies

[@generayvandergraaf9594]

My eyes got watery too. And I'm only 57. Age is irrelevant. You can't listen to this man and not be moved. At least I can't

[@25dollarbill24]

Want to burst into tears again, my friend? Listen to his tune _Everything Must Change._

[@IrnBruNYC]

I’m embarrassed to say I had never heard his Beatles covers. I immediately teared up when Rick cued up Golden Slumbers. Wow.

[@mercerfamilyadventures4613]

What n honour it must have been to sit and listen to him. What an incredible memory. A true legend

[@JessicaSinclairDoomsday]

Thank you Uncle Rick, I've been asking for this for so long as you know Mr Benson is aging.

[@BubbaN-JolenesLifeintheOzarks]

I could watch 24 hours of this man telling old stories....what a gift to humanity!

[@iancook7109]

A real gem of the guiar world

[@UncleChisel]

WHAT A TREASURE INTERVIEW

[@nicklausroberts738]

Its unbelievable

[@frankaq3951]

Agreed. What a great person to listen to.

[@samibeydoun5295]

Aye. I was thinking his personality and storytelling are as compelling as his musical expression. A very special human.

[@andyweis5194]

I was playing the Hyatt in Monterey, Ca some years ago and George came in and sat at a table by himself. When we went on break I introduced myself and told him that our stage is his stage if wanted to come up. He said he didn't think so as his voice wasn't doing so great because the night before he did an outside gig with Natalie (Cole). Well... we went back for the next set and I called Straight No Chaser. George sprang out of his chair and rushed up to the stage, grabbed the mic and scat sang the head with our guitar player, then scat sang a solo. A cherished lifetime memory for sure. Oh... and he sounded GREAT!

[@guslevy3506]

Having grown up in Monterey, oh how I wish I was at the Hyatt that night!…

[@JimmyCliffWilliams]

MAN. It doesn't get any better than this. Tracking a player from childhood roots to playing with the baddest cats around, and doing it all from a place of plain melody, singing what you hear, and plain old ENTERTAINING. Absolute legend. THANK YOU Rick.

[@dudedude923]

It took me four days to watch this whole thing, but I am glad I did. What makes George so interesting to watch is he compliments everyone who trained him or gave him ideas throughout his career.

[@manueljnunezv]

Rick, you are making history. In 30 years, your interview videos with legends like George Benson will be shown in the most prestigious music schools from all around the world. Thank you for the music and the education!

[@rabarebra]

We don't need no education. Music comes from within and in your DNA.

[@mikeh2450]

GEORGE BENSON personifies the philosophy that Great Music is a COLLABORATION, not a COMPETITION.

[@aleksamrkela831]

Funny you should use that word, because he had an album with Earl Klugh called "Collaboration". Beautiful album, absolutely recommend listening to it!

[@Eonis]

Or maybe it’s more of a collaboration? Because some of the greatest albums were made out of competition and great collaboration like Thriller, What’s Going On, and Purple Rain.

[@PhilosophyofGuitar]

Being an authority on the matter, I concur 😁

[@AndersGunnarsson-fh3hr]

Oh man! I can`t express how greatful I am for this interview and all the other interviews that have been out of my ”comfort zone” as a metal guitarist who dipped his pinkie in jazz for a split second during the 00´s. Three weeks ago I had no idea who George Benson was - I think I found the missing link in my own musical vocabulary here and geeeeeeez what a player AND singer George is. His album ”Breezi`n” has been on constant repeat in my car, in my listening room, in my headphones. Simply put. Without this channel Rick, my reality and world would haven been less colorful and intriguing without you. Much love to you Rick for setting the perfect conversation AND getting all the juicy bits without beeing pushy.

[@celestialnubian]

Whoa Rick!!! You got George Benson. He's the most impressive guest you've had. 👍👍👍 Dude is beyond legendary.

[@srbnst]

He'll be 81 years old on March 22, 2024. Still looks young and full of life. I also really like how he tells stories.

[@handsome-brute2666]

He's blessed 🙏🏾😊 🎸

[@blanketeyblank5309]

Amazing !!!😊

[@BobPerrone]

I bought George's first jazz albums and had the pleasure of meeting him at his home (I was installing carpet) I mentioned my enjoyment of his first recording and he said, "That was you who bought that!" Lol😊

[@priyankarchakraborty3874]

😁😁

[@bananabob2185]

What a great story!!! 😄

[@BobPerrone]

@bananabob2185 when I arrived he was upstairs playing and scatting. I looked at his wife and said, "THAT George Benson!!!" She laughed and that was when she offered to have him meet me.

[@cabrenna]

Such a great experience for you

[@perrym10161]

❤

[@cornerstoneinme]

I thank Jesus Christ that George Benson never put the guitar down. Never stopped learning. This is a man taking care of his talent. I will even go to his singing! God bless us all, love from Sweden. From a hard rocker(what is that) that love all good music. It is simple as that. Thank you George Benson.

[@anthonyflorence3639]

He’s beautiful! I’m an African American author and understand the magic of sharing your words and music. I listen to George’s music everyday and love how his talent and spirit was gifted to humanity to give us true joy. Thank you my brother

[@keithalanyoung]

Almost 81 years of age - as effervescent and as bright as a button. What a testament to the youthful healing power of music. Not only a great guitarist and singer - but what a storyteller. More power to you George. You're a legend. Brilliant interview.

[@MoreMeRecording]

So true! He's a National Treasure and the US should be so proud. Loved this.

[@Terrahoskins]

Right?! You can picture everything he’s saying.

[@rsenior7140]

Worked as a hotel shuttle driver in Sacramento in the 90's. I picked Mr. Benson up from a Chinese restaurant and took him back to the hotel, just him and I. We spent the ride back in conversation talking about "This Masquerade" and how it was my parents' wedding dance song. He couldn't have been more gracious. Wonderful man.

[@clydebermingham121]

Yes Sir …. If there’s one word to describe GEORGE BENSON … it is GRACIOUS 🙏🏽❤️🙏🏽. Meeting Mr. Benson myself , in my early 20’s …. And he was so calm & GRACIOUS … We met at the lobby of (then called ) COLUMBIA - PRESBITARIAN HOSPITAL (Uptown , in Harlem … in New York City). I removed that day so clearly til this day …: it was so surreal for me . … meeting my HERO … He was benevolent .. .. and so calm that I didn’t get too starstruck until after I was getting in the train back home to Queens … One of the most fortunate things in life is when one’s hero is wonderful human being & pressure …. It serves as a wonderful example of greatness … yet humble and benevolent . It takes away the pressures in life of needing our egos Tiger the best of us …. The experience really helped me to continue to be real with oneself … one can aspire to greatness .. without allow our egos to flare out and destroy our character & identity 🙏🏽

[@marcos_c_m]

This channel is a historical treasure.

[@chancellor9000]

HAPPY 81st BIRTHDAY, GEORGE!!! You've carried the jazz torch with dignity and earned the world's respect while expanding our popular understanding of the genre. Future generations will know your name and fingerprints on the contours of our human musical story.

[@roddevere2975]

Rick, thank you for interviewing George Benson. We all loved his music growing up. What a big-hearted guy. He's a national treasure.

[@edwinlora-music]

Certainly so!!! I love this!

[@pacucoreyes7268]

He is an international treasure!

[@gstrummer]

National treasure indeed. Well said.

[@stevelaferney3579]

Rick, your interviews should become part of the Library of Congress and The Smithsonian and any other institution that deals with music as there are never enough great interviews with great musicians. You do a fantastic job at allowing the person communicate to the audience what they want to say. Thank you so very kindly. And thank you my brother George.

[@woodnoname5015]

@@stevelaferney3579 Agree, if we still were in Hogh School, Rick was our favourite Music teacher !

[@dannysohn8507]

Knew he was an amazing musician, but I never knew George was such a great storyteller. What a superb interview!

[@themobileentrepreneur]

He was right when he said he has no jealous bone in him. He spend most of the interview time honouring others than himself.

[@johnnypipe]

When he said there was only one Wes Montgomery in a lifetime, I was thinking there is only one George Benson in a lifetime. And I agree with the post below, him honoring all of the others says all you need to know about George Benson.

[@drewdunn2066]

Rick Beato interviews give me hope for humanity.

[@gesundheit602]

There is just something very satisfying about watching an interview of an amazing artist when its conducted by someone as knowledgeable as Rick. He asks great questions, and most importantly he lets them do most of the talking. I love the fact that Rick is obviously just as excited to talk to these great artists as I am to listen. What a treat this George Benson interview was!

[@JackWarrenRoute66]

Yes!

[@smoothriffz6794]

As a Young Boy I Remember listening to my dad's album Weekend in LA by George Benson and I was Mesmerized as I listen to the song "On Broadway" I'll never forget the way that music made me feel ...thank you ..... Mr. George Benson you're simply the Greatest!🎸

[@bme4285]

This story should be made into a movie.

[@nichols746]

Love Benson sound,,god love him😊😊

[@kevinstrong5832]

I agree with David, this interview brought tears to my eyes. I'm 68 years old. I really realize the greatness in not only George's talent, but his humility, generosity and kindness are equal to his mastery as a musician. You have to be around for several years on this earth to really appreciate this wonderful man that is a great example of exceptional humanity. My 20 year old self would not have the patience to set for an hour to listen to this - my 68 year old self wishes there was another hour to listen to....

[@frankdiaz5877]

i to had tears i though it was me

[@bobsigler2645]

Great stuff Rick! Thank you for this one. 😊😊😊😊😊😊😊😊

[@allanwalli2935]

My 63 year old self is with you 100%! 🎶😍🥂

[@imbra]

Legend has it that Rick is still trying to get George to tell him how he learned to play over changes.

[@andrewkholowa1740]

😂😂😂 George is the best storyteller

[@rikirex2162]

trade secrets

[@balisaani]

He actually spills the beans at the end - when he discusses "four types of chords" vs "I only use two." And "the Melody." That combo is the secret to the sauce.

[@deanmorgan7011]

This is one of the best interviews I've seen, george Benson has come from the streets, fantastic storytellers, what a life. And so humble with it, brilliant.

[@cornerstoneinme]

Got to say this from Sweden; what else is there? George Benson.

[@slammajamma5435]

He started this interview the way he played his music, he jumped right in. Thank you, George

[@WayOutWardell]

When I was six, the 'Breezin' album was on constant rotation in my house. So much so, that I wrote a fan letter complete with a drawing, which my mother dutifully put in the mail at my behest. I don't know where she sent it to, but after some many weeks a large envelope showed up addressed to me. Inside was a signed 8x10 of GB (which I still have). He's a gentleman and a scholar, and nobody has as much fun making music as he does. Thank you, Rick, for all you do.

[@BestFitSquareChannel]

🌞🫶🏼🤸🏽‍♂️

[@danacoleman4007]

😊😊😊

[@KavonWilson-zj9wk]

Bobby Womack wrote breezing

[@josephlammardo]

What a delightful man.

[@domarq]

This wasn't simply an interview. This was a CLASS. This was a SEMINAR. It is ESSENTIAL to have a veteran, pre-1980 musician (Rick Beato) interview a legendary musician (George Benson). The appreciation, musical interludes....equipment references ....legendary musician references....and nuanced questions cannot be matched by a young, hack "reporter". Mr. Beato...your contribution to this KZbin sphere is INVALUABLE. George Benson ....Steve Lukather....Michael McDonald....Sting...etc. As a 1976 Gen-Xer, I always have to remind late 1980's---2000 babies when they say "Oh, every generation says theirs was the best, or complains about new art". But the 1980s---1993 (approximately) was truly the last period where ALL generations (babies from the early 1900's to 1980) intersected. Living legends were still among us. As a 4 year-old (in 1980) Black-American boy....in Harlem, NYC....I was exposed to: soul music, disco, gospel, light rock, some salsa from the neighborhood....The JACKSONS ...STEVIE WONDER....AND GEORGE BENSON. THAT is why I'm arrogant about our era. "Give Me The Night" and "Love x Love" was in heavy rotation. We were the last generation where this music (and old movies/television) wasn't "discovered" via scouring the internet. It WAS the ZEITGEIST. FIND STEVIE WONDER!! [ PLEASE....🤗]

[@lindacarothers1834]

Mr George Benson, Happy Birthday...Been In Love W Ur Music Since Way Back... LOVE This Interview...Hope U Get Kennedy Center Honors, Long Overdue...Bless U, Mr Benson...😎❤️

Wow! George Benson is the best storyteller I have ever heard, and Rick shows once again his high class and perfect preparation for interviewing a giant like him. Now, I would like to watch a biopic on Benson. What a life!

[@danacoleman4007]

That's a GREAT idea!!!

[@cliffkolinger395]

Rick is so full of knowledge, spouting off the names of people he had George’s respect as well.

[@chrisquick9219]

HE GOT BENSON!

[@susancroft3734]

I am LOVING this interview! I love George Benson and his talent. Back in 1977 I photographed him in Portland, Oregon. I was so impressed with his stage presence and his set up! He had these palm trees on either side of the stage and a beautiful Persian Rug that he stood on and played to the crowd. I was right in front shooting for a music magazine in Portland. Those were the days I had my Nikon FM film camera and was shooting slides. What great memories the 70's were. I even shot Paul McCartney and Wings in San Francisco in the same year, for the same magazine. Great memories. Thank you SO MUCH for this interview with George Benson. What a brilliant man! No one like him ever.

[@redskins17084]

Had no Jealousy, just admiration for those in his life . Great lesson for all.

[@stephenward7856]

God I love how Rick has the wonderful sense to never interrupt an artist in the flow. Another wonderful interview, thank you so much Rick.

[@enriquealonso2412]

Crazy to think that he was already performing for clubs at 7 years old. Truly a genius.

[@pamelabasilone5173]

This was fantastic! Georgie B, as he's known in Pittsburgh, is one of the greatest! I was lucky enough to see him in Pittsburgh when I was a teenager. Just amazing!

[@astrafalustre8259]

Unreal quality. Lucky are we to enjoy this 5 star interview of a legend. What a treat, Mr B, thank you.

[@badbrad]

One of the greatest guitarists of all time!

[@Skypie61]

Absolutely...So many influences in his playing that I would never have access to, ever...

[@sister_bertrille911]

Too bad Rolling Stone didn't think so. Still shaking my head over that ridiculous list.

[@badbrad]

@@sister_bertrille911 Wow I didn't know they skipped George. They really dropped the ball on that one.

[@deldia]

Musician. Great singer too.

[@badbrad]

@@deldia yes incredible voice!

[@ThomasDanielsLonghorn]

Wow, what timing! I was helping my parents LAST NIGHT clean up an old stereo in the garage and found a George Benson record. My dad said you have to keep this, he’s one of my heroes. My dad and a partner Palin built custom arch top guitars that George owns.

[@patrickjordan2233]

Too Cool!!😁😁😁

[@benlees9713]

he is the most underrated musician ever. He is so underappreciated in Pittsburgh and is on my Rushmore of guitar players

[@direnova6284]

That's cool mate :)

[@billbogamer4389]

I think God is very pleased with him. His humility and kindness equals his talent which probably equally contributed to his success.

[@brok54]

Talk about timing; I had just read about George working with the renowned Engineer/Producer Al Schmitt in Al’s book “On The Record”, and this video popped up in my feed…sweet!

[@nate4nate5]

Never seen such a Masterful, Genius Innovative Musician that yet is so HUMBLE George is a Guitar God.

[@jeddak]

I don't have words. What a glorious musician, what a fantastic interview. I was spellbound - I could have listened to you two talk for six hours straight.

[@hexo-mobius]

His life story needs to be turned into a movie. It would be a blockbuster hit. Everyone loves George Benson. ❤👍🏼🙏🏼

[@paulya1269]

100%

[@samsonakoja2458]

Absolutely!

[@danacoleman4007]

YES!!!!

[@kybernes]

Exactly! I love George’s music for so long - endless love! So please Rick team up with a filmmaker and tell his story for real! Do it now as long George can contribute with his vast knowledge of storytelling and music!

[@sophiaperennis2360]

It would be impossible to do a movie about him because they'd have to find a way to make it about race and racism. They would also need to add a lot of sexual debauchery because art or something.

[@user-mi9qi9fw1d]

What do you get when you combine a musical legend who is a consummate gentleman and storyteller with a well-informed, super-prepared and respectful interviewer with the perfect amount of knowledge and conversational grace? These two gentlemen. I was spellbound by this masterful interview. Thank you both! Rick, you are doing the world such an immense service!

[@karengary-corpus7181]

What an unbelievable interview! I was lost in Mr.Benson’s storytelling!

[@veeseee128]

George is an old man now. I remember when he was young and full of energy. He is still one of the best jazz musicians of all time.

[@handsome-brute2666]

And looks 👀 better than YOU 😜 and I at 81🙏🏾🤔

[@twinrivers6200]

​@@handsome-brute2666 100% dude doesn’t look 81 at all

[@ritamontesalvo6823]

81 !!! Oh my he looks good , love his music ❤

[@shawnmcvey7789]

George Benson is one of the most dangerous guitar players that ever lived, you just don't realize it at first because he's smooth AF.

[@shamcra]

Rick, these interviews you're making are more important than most people understand. In 10,20 or 30 years these musical legends are gone and you give future generations a chance to explore the history of what we now call contemporary music. Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for making this.

[@YashaHarari]

100%

[@georgiadavis8753]

AMAZING! I've admired and listened to George for decades. I didn't think that I could appreciate him more , I was wrong.

[@michaeldesselle7589]

💯 %

[@eaa6347]

Exactly as it is.

[@marlarohrdanz7175]

Agreed!

[@timmardon6161]

What a fantastic experience!! So eloquent, such a story teller. As a young soldier in the British Army in 1977 on a 6 month tour of Northern Ireland, I heard Nature Boy and was instantly hooked! Immediately bought the album and every other one there after. Rick Beato a magical interview your knowledge was equally brilliant.

[@tilliemoore1268]

Wow, this was epic, thank you for allowing us to experience the joy too!

[@EL34Quartett]

George is a great person. So humble and authentic. And a wonderful musician.

[@sms9106]

You got to love passion.

[@outtamilk]

When I was a 13 year old girl I won 2 tickets to see George @ Western Springs Stadium Auckland in the 80's. I'll never forget it as it was mine (and my mother's) first ever concert. Thank you George for one of the happiest memories of my life! My mother passed away at the age of 54 in 1997. She never understood my obsession with George's music until she chaperoned me that day & for years later she would rave about how handsome & talented he was!

[@jagmasters7392]

I was 18 and was at that concert too👍🏽It was an amazing day. By memory, his opening song was the instrumental "Lady". I still remember the string section and their wonderful accompaniment. A bro' and I had saved our penny's earned from orchard work, stole (borrowed without approval) his dads Ford transit van ... and drove to the show from Tauranga. GB has inspired my musical pursuits throughout my life ... this interview has inspired me again 😆

[@outtamilk]

@@jagmasters7392 You were there too?? That's awesome. What a cool experience & trip to the big smoke that would of been!

[@peterdent2019]

I turn 54 on Tuesday! 😮

[@brucellosis9887]

Great story ❤

[@outtamilk]

@@peterdent2019 😯 Freaky! Hope you have a great day and many more! Life can be too short....

[@RanchoTexano]

This is probably the most amazing musical interview I have ever heard. I am so grateful Rick that Mr. Benson took the time to speak with you, and by proxy to all of us. What an American treasure he is.

[@oiramssab]

George is one of the kindest humans. I've met him a couple of times now and he's even seen me play locally here and only has kind things to say. I've seen him get up on the band stand cold and completely annihilate rhythm changes like nobodies business. Never repeating ideas, just a flow of streaming conscience. Great interview Rick, and thank you for everything you are doing!

[@NiRENiRE]

I'm watching this with a huge smile on my face. Thank you Rick for sharing this moment with George Benson. Thank you Mr. Benson for making me smile today.

[@kentstallard6512]

A few years ago I played keys for a show at a venue in Phoenix. The promoter is a close friend of Benson's, and George attended with (the late, sadly) Joni Sledge of Sister Sledge. We covered a couple of his songs. Afterwards I was speaking with George and I somewhat jokingly apologized for not being able to cover all of the orchestration on his recording. He laughed. "Hell...we don't do everything on the record in our concerts either!" Zero pretentiousness with him. Gotta love it.

[@truthseeker7649]

I was a 13 year old girl when Breezin’ came out and it turned out to be my very first jazz album. I then bought several other George Benson LPs and eventually CDs….such an incredibly talented musician and just as much a lovely and down to earth gentleman!

[@mississippirobert]

I had drinks with this dude in the memphis airport years ago. I was in shock when I met him. Told him I had all his albums. He asked...which is your favorite. I went blank! Starstruck. For the record, it was Breezin!!

[@Postmortumaz]

I love how he scats vocals with his guitar.

[@AlexRodriguez-hl1vu]

He the best at that

[@Nikosi9]

@@AlexRodriguez-hl1vu Listen to Slam Stewart do it with his bowed bass... Or Major Holly.

[@edwinlora-music]

He is the best of the best doing it!

[@bobbyk5684]

George Benson is as good of a story teller as he is a guitarist! Fantastic interview! I met George Benson at a Django Reinhardt nite in Manhattan over 20 years ago. He was so friendly to me. We were at the bar after the show and i was looking his way and he just started talking to me. Here I was just some guy at the bar but he treated me like a champ. During the show he was in the audience watching the various gypsy style guitarists play when he got called to the stage. He told me later that he did not expect to play. Django's son lent George his guitar and he was amazing.! There were so many great gypsy jazz guitar players that nite but George Benson outplayed them all. The funny thing was, George told me later that Django's son's guitar was horrible with a neck like a baseball bat. It didn't matter, he's just that great.

[@martinmarkovich1630]

Lots of great guitarists in all kinds of styles. None better than George Benson! He stands at the crossroads of Jazz, Rock, Funk and Disco, making it all sound divine.

[@stevewise1656]

Great story! We all want to be acknowledged and he did that with you. Most people don't experience those moments and you did.:)

[@RayR]

These interview just keep getting better and better. George is a treasure. This last year I started revisiting his library and my respect for him grew even more.

[@cardoma]

I love George’s reverence for the greats that influenced and paved the way for him. It’s beautiful. He was such a monster player and singer. I can’t think of anyone quite like him. Great interview

[@gjackers]

In these times of 10 second clips and 280 character messages, can't begin to express how refreshing and soothing it is, to listen to two wonderful human beings talk to each other respectfully for over an hour. Thank you both.

[@ivanhenriqueroberto1970]

Man, you said it ALL!!

[@johncloptop1585]

George's memory is UNCANNY! Thank you Rick, for capturing these stories, before they were lost in time. 🫡

[@jeancarter1121]

I saw George in a little jazz club on State St in Madison, WI before Breezin' came out. I sat right in front of the stage & had never heard of him before that evening but loved watching him play & sing. What a great way to experience the great George Benson!

[@m.r.2183]

I saw him in Milwaukee on that tour at a club called Teddy’s. I think it was late 1975. Up until then my idea of guitar was Hendrix and Clapton. That evening changed everything for me.

[@ericleon6482]

My older brother had 2 George Benson records: Live at Carnegie Hall and Breezin', then he brought Weekend in LA... and I was spellbound. Then the 80's came and Give me the Night was so huge. And then, one day in the mid 90's he was announced to top the bill of the 1st Cancún Jazz Festival, also playing that night were Tania Maria and Tito Puente. Those memories won't go away, ever!! Thank you Rick and George, you both are the greatest at what you do.

[@markhale6495]

There are many people who probably don't know just how talented this man is. A faultless vocalist and guitar player as well as being humble. A great combination and it's great to see him on such good form, looking healthy and speaking so enthusiastically about his music. Thank you for interviewing a man who can only be described as music royalty.

[@obgfoster]

... he also sings! Well, yeah!

[@markhale6495]

@@obgfoster Yes, that's what I said. When I was a kid I remember someone on TV saying that George was the best guitar player in the world, but no-one knew until he started singing. Ive seen him live a few times and his voice is as good live as soon his records. Not many artists can do that at his level

[@noferblatz]

No one can do interviews with these guy like you, Rick. You've got the producer cred, the musician cred, you know all the players, all the music theory, and you get out of the way of the interviewees. Plus you give them the proper respect and admiration. Well done, Buddy.

[@martinlacasse.murals]

Nice Job Rick! 🎶👏👏What a treat to hear my brother being interviewed.

[@gabrielapratas6858]

It was delightful to hear this interview. George Benson sounded to be a humble man. A gentleman who knows how to respect everyone and how to appreciate the talent of others.

[@kennethdean4349]

We attended a George Benson concert in NJ, perhaps 20 years ago. When the show ended and the lights came up, I was disappointed that he hadn't performed The Greatest Love of All. We were moving out of the row of seats and we heard that song starting and I thought it was a little cold to put it on a recording of it instead of playing it. Then the lights went down and he and the band were actually the ones performing it. We just sat down and let it wash over us. I recall weeping and even now I'm tearing up just thinking of the song.

[@clutch236]

Rick Beato, you are an absolute "Rock Star" for pulling this interview off with my all-time favorite Jazz musician - Mr. George Benson, the Living Legend! Thank you so much for this, it's such an honor to watch you interview my childhood musical hero! God bless you both! Bravo! 👏🏾

[@jeffpodrug8942]

This is an interview that I will treasure for the rest of my days. I don't know where to start. I know there are people like me that never learned how to read music. What a gracious, thoughtful, kind, and talented human being. I just remembered how he made me groove when I was listening to his music. I don't know if it gets any better than this, Rick. Thank you, for showing me, and those of us who never met this man of amazing talent, wisdom, and character, how he came to be. 💯🙏❤️🎸

[@brianmckerrow817]

Why aren't you in the millions now!!! Gotta be this year. I see exponential growth! The greatest love of all.