Is Weekend in L.A. a good place to start with George Benson?

Yes, Weekend in L.A. is recommended as a starting point for new George Benson listeners. A vibrant fusion of jazz, pop, and R&B that captures the carefree essence of a sun-soaked Los Angeles weekend. By the time George Benson released 'Weekend in L.A.' in 1977, he had already achieved commercial success with his previous album 'Breezin''. This live album showcased Benson's smooth guitar work and vocal prowess at a pivotal moment when he was transitioning into a mainstream pop audience, solidifying his status as a leading figure in the smooth jazz genre.

Who is Weekend in L.A. for?

Weekend in L.A. works well if you're into soulful grooves for relaxed evenings, dynamic peaks and valleys and vibrant backdrop for social gatherings.

How many songs are on Weekend in L.A.?

Weekend in L.A. has 11 tracks, running approximately 69 minutes.

Weekend in L.A.

George Benson · 1977

69 min · 11 tracks · funk

A vibrant fusion of jazz, pop, and R&B that captures the carefree essence of a sun-soaked Los Angeles weekend.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Weekend in L.A. Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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On Broadway — This track reflects Benson's ability to blend jazz improvisation with popular music sensibilities, transforming the classic show tune into a soulful anthem.
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The Greatest Love of All — Benson's version of this song not only showcases his powerful vocal delivery but also became a defining hit for him, later popularized by Whitney Houston.
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California P.M. — This instrumental piece exemplifies the album's relaxed vibe, featuring smooth guitar lines intertwined with lush arrangements that evoke the laid-back California lifestyle.
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We All Remember Wes — A tribute to Wes Montgomery, this track highlights Benson's virtuosic guitar skills while paying homage to one of his greatest influences in jazz.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong musicianship and memorable melodies, making it a standout in its genre.

What we noticed

The album features extended instrumental solos, particularly on tracks like 'Ode to a Kudu,' where the guitar takes center stage for several minutes.
Each track maintains a consistent mid-tempo groove, with rhythmic interplay between the guitar and the backing band throughout.
The live recording captures audience reactions, adding an energetic atmosphere that enhances the performance feel of the music.

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

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

soulful grooves for relaxed evenings
dynamic peaks and valleys
vibrant backdrop for social gatherings
engaging guitar solos to savor
reflective moments between lively tracks

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — This album solidified Benson's reputation after the success of 'Breezin''.
Themes: Los Angeles sun-soaked vibes· smooth jazz evolution· R&B empowerment anthems
Career context: By the time George Benson released 'Weekend in L.A.' in 1977, he had already achieved commercial success with his previous album 'Breezin''. This live album showcased Benson's smooth guitar work and vocal prowess at a pivotal moment when he was transitioning into a mainstream pop audience, solidifying his status as a leading figure in the smooth jazz genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Al Jarreau· Lee Ritenour· Pat Metheny