Tenderly

George Benson's rhythmic style, lyrical phrases, catchy riffs and ingenious improvisations are his best qualities in guitar-playing that makes him one of the most impressive guitarists America ever produced. He's a great vocalist as well and known for his effortless scatting ability. I have collected some of his remarkable CDs, which include the Platinum-selling and Grammy winning album, "Breezin," "Give Me The Night," "20/20," "Living Inside Your Love," "Witchcraft," "Big Boss Band" and "Best of George Benson:The Instrumentals." This wonderful CD, "Tenderly," is a perfect testament of his combined guitar and vocal artistry.

I had the chance to listen to a live interview with Mr. Benson way back in 1993 at L.A.'s Jazz-FM 103.1 when he was promoting his current album then, "Love Remembers." He shared with the listeners some interesting and lesser known facts about him -- he started playing the ukelele at age seven and the greatest influences in his life are Charlie Christian, Wes Montgomery and Grant Green. His favorite contemporary singers are Al Jarreau, Nat King Cole, Sam Cooke and Jackie Wilson, to name a few. According to him, if he were born 20-30 years earlier, he would have been a pianist or a violinist.

He had voice lessons with a professional instructor who also trained Stevie Wonder. (That instructor really did a great job). This is evident by the countless hits he recorded such as "On Broadway," "This Masquerade," "Moody's Mood," "Nothing's Gonna Change My Love For You," "Unchained Melody," and all the songs in this timeless CD starting off with "You Don't Know What Love Is" down to the final track, "I Could Write A Book." All the songs here are some of the best interpretations ever recorded.

I was so touched by his beautiful and heartfelt interpretation of the famous Lennon/McCartney classic, "Here There And Everywhere" that I listened to it repeatedly. The instrumental part is so impressive that I can't help mentioning the equally talented back-up jazz musicians namely, McCoy Tyner (piano), Ron Carter (bass), Lenny Castro (percussions), Herlin Riley, Louis Hays and Al Foster (drums), and of course Mr. Benson himself on guitar and vocals, and not to mention the superb and sparkling chart arrangement by Marty Paich. In my opinion, this track is the very highlight of this CD. Congratulations to all of you guys for a stellar performance!

Another notable track that shows off his awesome vocal artistry is Mitchell Parish and Hoagy Carmichael's "Stardust," one of the best vocal renditions ever recorded for this gem of a song.

"You wander down the lane and far away
Leaving me a song that will not die
Love is now the stardust of yesterday
The music of the years gone by."

According to George, "he felt so good doing this project as well as playing with some of the finest jazz musicians with whom he had long-time relationships." Thank you, Mr. Benson for doing an excellent job!

This CD is essential not only to George Benson's fans but also to all jazz buffs. You will have a lifetime of listening pleasure!