Photo Credit: Angela George / CC by 3.0
Warner Music Group announces the return of jazz legend George Benson to their roster via Rhino, beginning with archival footage of the icon from the 1970s on Rhino’s YouTube channel.
A giant in the jazz world renowned for his smooth vocals and unmatched guitar skills, George Benson’s career spans more than six decades. His Warner Records debut in 1976, Breezin’, topped the jazz, pop, and R&B charts, earning three Grammy Awards and remaining one of the best-selling jazz albums of all time.
From 1979 to 1993, Benson released 12 studio albums with Warner Records, including the Quincy Jones-produced 1980 soul-pop album Give Me the Night. Other major releases include 1977’s In Flight and the 1978 live album Weekend in LA. In 2009, Benson was recognized by the National Endowment of the Arts (NEA) as a Jazz Master, the highest honor in the nation for jazz artists.
“When I joined WB records the first time, it caused an explosion in my career as a musician and quest to become a singer. The exposure from that union has given me a life that I never imagined. Nothing but good has come from this partnership, and today the inspiration continues on,” says Benson.
“I am thrilled to welcome back the legendary George Benson to the Warner Music family,” said Kevin Gore, President of Warner Music Global Catalog and Arts Music. “With his unparalleled guitar skills and soulful voice, Mr. Benson continues to mesmerize audiences across generations. We are privileged to be a part of his journey again and honored to work with such a gifted artist with an extraordinary musical legacy.”
Benson’s return to Warner Music Group ushers in a new chapter in his career, with new music due to release later this year. Available now on Rhino’s official YouTube channel, fans can enjoy archival footage of Benson performing his hit, “Lady Blue,” live during the late ‘70s. This marks the first time footage of this rare performance is digitally available.
George Benson regularly packs and often sells out venues including Royal Albert Hall, Sydney Opera House, and The Hollywood Bowl, where he will perform on August 18.