The Essential George Benson cover

Released 20 years ago

The Essential George Benson

George Benson · 2006

147 min · 21 tracks · funk · R&B · smooth jazz

A vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and pop showcasing Benson's virtuosic guitar work and smooth vocals.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • wave-like pacing with dynamic shifts
  • for relaxed afternoon vibes
  • exploratory sessions with rich textures
  • engaging guitar solos to savor
  • smooth vocals for easy listening

Maybe skip if you want

  • prefer quick, upbeat tracks
  • want concise single experiences

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2006, 'The Essential George Benson' came during a period where Benson was celebrated as a smooth jazz icon. This compilation highlights his extensive career from the 1970s through the early 2000s, encapsulating his evolution as both a guitarist and vocalist. At this point, Benson had already achieved significant commercial success with hits like 'Give Me the Night.'
Stylistic neighbors
Al Jarreau· Lee Ritenour· Pat Metheny

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

Disc 1

  • 1 Rock Candy (live) 6:13
  • 2 Shadow Dancers 4:46
  • 3 Clockwise 4:28
  • 4 Willow Weep for Me 7:49
  • 5 A Foggy Day 2:42
  • 6 The Borgia Stick 3:09
  • 7 Paraphernalia 12:39
  • 8 Sugar 10:05
  • 9 So What 9:19
  • 10 Ode to a Kudu (alternate take) 4:42
  • 11 California Dreamin' 7:19

Disc 2

  • 1 White Rabbit 6:56
  • 2 Body Talk 8:22
  • 3 Take Five 7:07
  • 4 Summertime 6:05
  • 5 Breezin' 5:21
  • 6 This Masquerade 8:04
  • 7 On Broadway 10:10
  • 8 Give Me the Night 5:02
  • 9 Hip Skip 8:07
  • 10 Gotham City 9:19

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata