At 81, jazz guitar legend George Benson shows no signs of slowing down. With over 40 albums under his belt and a new immersive music event on the horizon, the guitarist continues to push boundaries while staying true to his musical roots.
"I live with the guitar; I don't call it practice," Benson tells Guitarist magazine in a recent interview. His passion for the instrument remains undiminished after six decades of performing. "I have guitars all over my house in strategic places, and every time I see that handle sticking up, I grab it, sit down and learn something."
This dedication to continuous learning and evolution has been a hallmark of Benson's career. Breaking from jazz conventions early on, he developed his signature style by combining virtuosic guitar work with smooth vocals and melodies - a move that initially drew criticism from jazz purists but ultimately led to breakthrough success with albums like "Breezin'" in 1976.
The guitarist's upcoming event, "Breezin' With The Stars" in Arizona, will feature workshops and guitar performances alongside renowned musicians including Steve Lukather, John Scofield, and Tommy Emmanuel. For Benson, sharing knowledge remains as rewarding as acquiring it.
"One of the big things is learning and obtaining knowledge," he explains, "but also, imparting that knowledge." This philosophy of continuous growth and mentorship has helped cement Benson's legacy as both an innovative performer and an influential teacher.
As he prepares for this new chapter in his career, Benson's commitment to his craft remains unwavering. His story serves as a testament to how breaking established rules while mastering the fundamentals can lead to extraordinary musical achievements.