Is Breezin' a good place to start with George Benson?

Yes, Breezin' is recommended as a starting point for new George Benson listeners. Smooth guitar lines and laid-back grooves create an inviting atmosphere that blends jazz with a touch of pop sensibility. Released in 1976, Breezin' was George Benson's breakthrough album, marking his transition from a respected jazz guitarist to a mainstream pop artist. This album followed the release of his earlier work, which showcased his virtuosic guitar skills but did not achieve significant commercial success.

Breezin' works well if you're into smooth, relaxing background vibes, long, immersive listening sessions and warm, effortless groove exploration.

How many songs are on Breezin'?

Breezin' has 6 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

Released 50 years ago

Breezin'

George Benson · 1976

38 min · 6 tracks · funk

Smooth guitar lines and laid-back grooves create an inviting atmosphere that blends jazz with a touch of pop sensibility.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Breezin’ Start here — The title track encapsulates the album's smooth aesthetic with its fluid guitar solos and gentle rhythm, setting the overall tone.
→
This Masquerade — This cover features Benson’s expressive vocal delivery alongside intricate guitar work, showcasing his ability to blend genres seamlessly.
→
Affirmation — With its uplifting melody and rhythmic complexity, this track highlights Benson’s jazz roots while appealing to broader pop audiences.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

63 /100

Treeline

Higher than 74% of albums we've rated

Breezin' blends jazz and pop sensibilities with smooth guitar lines, creating an inviting atmosphere throughout its runtime.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features a prominent guitar melody layered over smooth, syncopated rhythms.
The arrangements often include lush string sections and subtle backing vocals, enhancing the overall smoothness of the sound.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 7/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

smooth, relaxing background vibes
long, immersive listening sessions
warm, effortless groove exploration
contemplative evening ambiance

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album marked Benson's transition to mainstream recognition and success.
Themes: smooth jazz fusion· melodic guitar solos· 1970s pop crossover
Career context: Released in 1976, Breezin' was George Benson's breakthrough album, marking his transition from a respected jazz guitarist to a mainstream pop artist. This album followed the release of his earlier work, which showcased his virtuosic guitar skills but did not achieve significant commercial success.
Stylistic neighbors: Al Jarreau· Lee Ritenour· Pat Metheny