Hey Rick! Sat my 19 year old down and I watched him just melt into being a GB fan. On his bedroom walls he’s got his fav guitarists: Beck. SRV. Jimi. BB. Eric Johnson Gotta find a George Benson poster for him for Xmas now. Funny, he prefers posters where the guitarist is smoking a cigarette…and he doesn’t smoke. Kids these days lol You gave me quality time with my kid man…thanks
There’s a great black & white photo of GB smoking taken by the legendary Francis Wolff during the sessions for Lou Donaldson’s “Alligator Boogaloo” album. Rare because he’s long since stopped smoking, this was when he was in his 20s. It’s not hard to find with an image search. I’d link to it, but it won’t seem to let me.
I've watched several long videos on jazz guitar improvisation and learned almost nothing. You come with a 6-minute video and teach me more than all those videos combined. Thank you, Rick!
Frankly, you tell me, but I really don’t know how you’d go about trying to actually teach that. And I’m not even talking about the genius of something like the timing & feel of George Benson, which is obviously God-given….
@lplucasarts Question for you - & any other guitar players: my son-in-law plays guitar in a blues/rock bank, but he only plays by ear. Do you know, would he be able to benefit from Rick's new music theory course for songwriters, or would you need to be able to read music to learn from the course? I was thinking of buying it for him as a Christmas present.
He is playing what he is singing which is the distinction a lot of people miss. Many people tell me he sings what he plays and I have to explain it is the opposite. Improvisation is pretty much exactly that, playing what he hears and sometimes he sings it as he plays it😊
thats how it goes regularly. A musician goes the more easy (and better) way, to memorise first, and as soon you hvae that sound in mind, your hands/fingers follows. I am deep in Indian classics. Three the oral memorizing (singing) is essential part of the music education and practise of even the biggest maestros.
@@LoganPEade This is a skill and like EVERY other, you get better at it the more you do it. There are things you can do with an instrument that are difficult or impossible vocally. I have found that singing the line you’re playing helps make your soloing more lyrical, hence accessible especially to an untrained ear. You will tend to go down the technical rabbit hole less frequently.
My neighbors took me to see George Benson in 1980 at the Circle Star. My first concert. I wasn’t even into him. I wanted to see rock concerts. But that concert ruined many subsequent concerts by other artists, because the show was amazing and I’ll never forget how happy people were dancing in the aisles and how good he was. Thank you GB.
Circle Star!!!! I was talking about that venue with one of my younger co-workers! I saw some fantastic shows there! There's certainly nothing like it today.
I’m following George Benson since I was 16 now I’m 61. I’ve seen him eight or 10 times in Europe and in my hometown Cologne Germany His music has a big influence for my life and taste of music beside Earth, Wind & Fire
Mr. Benson has the technique to be sure, but I'm afraid that he totally ruined "Take Five" by playing it in a "funky", stiff, eighth-note rhythm. Just my personal opinion. No one has to be angry with me because of it. I appreciate Mr. Benson as much as anyone and we are both from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania by the way.
Actually, singing your solos and/or improvs is a good way to learn and play. If you can sing it, you can play it. Try it. Well, maybe you don't play, but it works. And if you can sing it but can't play it? Keep playing until you can.
I need to live a couple lives concurrently so I have a shot at pouring all that skill and knowledge into my own head. Some people are close to being genius level and they just don't know it....or maybe they do.
A lot of musicians are only focused on one genre. Then there are those certain special individuals who can adapt to any style of music. Rick is part of the latter.
His refusal to call himself a guitarist literally ruined me on the instrument for awhile, though. If someone that good refuses to call himself a guitarist, what does that make me? A step above Guitar Hero, on my best day. That's what.
George Benson is my #1 favorite guitarist. In the late 70's I bought every single album that he produced and listened to them 24/7. I remember his Charlie Christian tribute sessions with Benny Goodman on public TV. He could play any bebop, jazz or smooth jazz style and ultimately created his own style. Great video and great lesson Rick!
I worked for a production company back in the early 2000s and we did a show at Red Bank, NJ for George Benson. It was unbelievable! His singing and playing were out of this world. I was so inspired I wrote an instrumental song the next morning on Father's Day. My daughter gave me a hand-drawn picture of a sunset that she labeled "Sunset Picture" for Father's Day. (She was about 10 at the time.) I titled the song "Sunset Picture". One of my favorite life memories tied to music and fatherhood.
lets not forget to mention he's also singing those notes in that great voice .. I always knew he was a monster player but when I first heard him sing I was blown away
SImply one of the most technically gifted and musically versatile guitarists, his fluid, melodic phrasing and masterful improvisational skills can't be beat. Salute & Peace
I'm astounded how well integrated your scene is, Maestro Beato. Right from Maestro Benson to the lesson that is so pleasurable, easy to understand and feel. I anticipate future guitarists, your students, achieving greatness because of the greatness of their teacher. Thank you Rick.☮
I just purchased one of George's guitars from his personal collection, Ibanez GB10EM-AA 5B-02 Owned by George Benson. Always been a huge fan. I recorded a few songs in his recording studio in Lahaina Maui back in the early 90s, to shop in Los Angeles for a recording deal. I love watching Benson's concerts on YT.
He's doing just what Skunk Baxter was talking about in your interview with him, learn to "sing" with the guitar and it becomes your voice. So cool to see it in application.
@ Being a teenager in the 80’s I was hard rock and punk fan. My mother, God rest her soul, was a huge Al Jarreau fan and I took her to see him every time he came into town. I believe it was his last tour, a double bill with George Benson. I indeed was fortunate and have very fond memories of each show.
I am 68, nearly 69 and heard George Benson when I was about 16, our teen group would meet up twice a month on a weekend to share our new music (vinyl) purchases. There were about 6 to 10 of us sitting in someone’s bedroom or a garage in a circle on cushions listening and discussing and more importantly learning about each other’s musical tastes. I was the guitarist type and would often have maybe Tal Farlow, George Benson, Django Reinhard or John McLaughlin - talking about how Django saved Tony Iommi’s career when he chopped his great hand finger tips off and then heard Django playing Nuages and giving Tony renewed hope and focus to move forward. Your video of Benson was great the man had a certain touch, like BB King or even Les Paul. Something I have learned over time is listening to these players across all genres fed into new players. Clapton was God, Peter Green was Jesus and Rory Gallagher was just himself - Total Guitar 250 list is a joke because it was written by someone who is too young to understand what the source material means and were it came from. CDs for me saved my lifetime soundtrack as it reintroduced rare vinyl that the industry had deleted from their catalogs and allowed me, older and wealthier to invest in hard to find rarities. So many great albums and artists are being forgotten or lost to shows like The Voice or AGT where they have a winner who signs a record deal but they don’t have their own feel or touch or sound and their longevity is extremely limited. I loved Benson playing his Jazz, and like later stuff as well but I felt he was trying to hard to be everything to everyone and he was reasonably successful in his endeavour. Simplicity is just a display of someone who has worked damned hard to hone his skill and craft with his own style and creativity. He makes it look easy but it is not easy - bit like trying to play like Jeff Beck or Rory Gallagher when it looks easy to you then you can be sure that you have missed something and you don’t really understand what you need to be hearing. As usual great content again.
I wonder if the reason some young players lack this is because most current music is quantized. Feel is all about how a person plays, but locking everything to a grid ruins that. If that's the only kind of music you hear, you might start playing like that and never really develop your own feel.
George Benson is the only act that I ever tipped the maitre’d in LV to sit in the front row. About ‘86. In a creamy white suit, he played his ass off and the sweat just poured off him. Incredible music.
Yeah, I’m glad the video said “MOST young people” because imo like George Benson had a nice feel on even his earlier records before he started to sing more, he just got more and more refined as time went on.
George Benson is one of a handful that crossed the jazzy, funk, r&b side of radio air play to getting a lot of airplay on Rock stations because of his kick but vocal/guitar phrasing in his live version of Broadway!!! So good❤️😎
I don’t play any instruments, but love music ! 1st concert Jethro Tull Aqualung tour , San Diego Sports Arena 1971 . I was 15 yrs old at the time. Rick , I enjoy your passion for music, and your interviews are outstanding. Thanks so much !
Ha! One of my very first concerts was the Aqualung tour. Saw them at Bradley University in illinois. Great amazing event. I saw a guy several seats to my right bent over and freaking out. I asked somebody what's going on over there and he said he's tripping real hard on acid. At that time I didn't even smoke pot. It only took me a couple of years to figure out exactly what that guy was going through because I did it a few too many times myself!
Rick. Did u ever consider having a quick jam with the people u interview? Would be cool to see u collaborate musically as well as an interview. Keep going much appreciation to u and your family.
Your enthusiasm is contagious! Ooooooo! Back in the day, George Benson was HUGE! Love him! 🥰 Sometimes, it’s as though he isn’t playing and singing, he channels the music. You can see it oozing out of him! 😉Incredible!
What George did there, and as David Gilmore does (Wish You Were Here), was sing the notes they’re playing. This method has always helped me learn new material and fix most timing mistakes when I can’t find the groove.
@kwyatt261 Lighten up, Bro. Living with the folks in this day and age does y not make you a loser. I can definitely sing along in my head, but singing out loud while playing...fugitaboutit!
I can't memorize a tune without the notes (la do, I can't imagine how you do that with letters). Good improvisers hear what they are going to play. I suck at it on kds but I'm just a drummer.
@@kwyatt261 You can't find any job ? In the 70s, you could find a job in two hours. I left my folks at 20, to be a loader, then a nurse in psychiatry. I would have done anything. Never regretted it. A few years later, I made a living with music. Perhaps you have a job, but you can't afford to rent a flat ? Tough times.
Rick, so glad you still find music you're excited about! I worry that your knowledge can effect your ability to enjoy things. Hope you get serious about recording, I think you seriously underestimate how many people would greatly enjoy that. Godspeed.
Wondering when you were going to showcase my all time number one guitar hero George Benson, been playing his GB-10 since 1978! He's still killin' it! Guy launched a million jazz guitarists in the mid 70s. That's my hero...
@@outermarker5801 Thank you! Missed it, watching it now, what a great story. That man deserves every gift God can give him and is a GREAT role model for young guitar players.
Took a few Metalhead friends to see George in the late 80s in Prov RI. Jaws were dropped, fans were made. They were high fiving half the night it was insane. George was smoking that night too.
I've seen George more times than any jazz musician. Have a photo with George when I got a backstage pass included with the ticket scalper I used to get my tickets from back in the day in Houston! I came from a rock/pop and classical piano upbringing since mom was a piano teacher, but when I heard George play when I was self learning guitar, no pedals, no effects, just straight clear sweet guitar tone, he WON OUT against all other players in my book... Just his rich melodic and rhythmic vocabulary hit me harder than anyone else when Breezin' came out and so I started chasing that, learning those songs by ear... good memories.
was born a drummer, literally...grew up playing in church, was four years old playing with the adult band and holding my own....say all this to say, now that im playing guitar, my feel is always what im complimented on the most
Same here. Started drums in 5th grade in the late 60s with the 'all city music program' in school, in the meantime taught myself guitar by listening to the usual suspects, Santana, Hendrix, Beck, Clapton...and some local guys who showed me stuff, been playing ever since. I get compliments on my timing more than anything, I chalk it up to my drum training.
@@fattone166 absolutely. i owe a lot to my experience playing in church. developed pro level time and feel subconsciously. not knowing at the time the skills i was developing.
Going in the other direction… Been playing guitar, my whole life, but started playing drums about four years ago… Just for fun and also to work on my sense of rhythm. There’s just something magical about drumming… it’s so much in the body, and in the moment. Rhythm is King.
Shannon Forrest (Toto's drummer) said in a interview that he had nothing to do : these guys all have a perfect timing. The sound depends on it. I'm currently working en las canciones de Havana D'Primera (Música Cubana of course), the precision and groove of these musicians are astonishing. Tough music, and the drum intros are sometimes everything but clear!
I have been playing 40 plus years. I still suck, but love playing guitar. I watch you because you have musical epiphanies that I cannot ever have - and THANK YOU for those epiphanies, It makes me love the language of music I yearn to understand ever so meaningful when you break it down -= George Benson is a Beethoven or a Mozart, BTW. Some folks are just that musically perfect. God Bless those who were gifted with such talent and passion.
Kenny Werner used to do a thing in his clinics where he would play the identical licks (one time through in a 12 bar blues) in all twelve keys over ONE key - MFer swung so hard it sounded great every time through 🤘💥
I have met George, I have seen him live 7 times, For me, he is the greatest guitarist of ALL time, then you remember he is an excellent vocalist and its mind blown. By the way, one of the nicest people I have ever met.
George is incredible. He's been one of my favorite guitarists for a long time. The way he can sing and play exactly the same thing simultaneously at that speed is amazing. I don't think he gets anywhere near the recognition he deserves as an absolutely monster guitar player.
I love this channel. Lost some passion after weird life circumstances ended schooling for audio production. Been ten years, getting back into it- watching this channel evokes that excitement and motivation again. Feels awesome. Benson is nuts!!!!!! And dang, Beato, that Ibanez is beautiful.
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Rick, listening to you describe the mechanics and the nuances and watching you articulate so easily it’s like listening to music itself
I have no knowledge or experience of playing the guitar but Rick is so good to listen too. It’s all fascinating stuff. Also, I have just watched his 45 minute talk with Matteo Mancuso. Utterly absorbing and Matteo is other worldly. I have loved listening to all genres of electric guitar since the late 70’s which is why the mechanics of playing this instrument is so interesting.
I've always loved George's sound and feel. First noticed it as a kid with his record, "On Broadway". Didn't care too much about his hit records, but they are a part of my childhood so they're not that bad. But this solo blows them all out of the water.
The master. One of the greatest I had the privilege of seeing live up close as an undergrad at a PSU Jazz Festival. An indelible impression! Love George. Perfect. Yes sir!!
Pocket, feel. Pat Metheny talked about this in a lesson that was recorded decades ago. His attention to where he plays each note is key to feel and totally under his control.
Agreed. I always have a good feel in the pocket. Those who know, know and just give you a nod like 'yeah'. Those who don't, haven't a clue - which suits me fine.
Fantastic video Rick. Feel is like the magic backbone of music, human music. The flow, the rhythm and energy and those wonderful spaces or gaps which let you see through to the supporting structures like the other band members, and instruments in the background. George is just warming up then is a smoking fire in no time. I love the way any master musician like GB solos so elegantly, but it conveys the motion of graceful stumbling, as if they are tripping down a path or set of stairs and climbing back up again, so beautiful. ❤
You mentioned the "Gilmour Effect" a million times and here it is. Why do people prefer Gilmour's playing? THIS. Exactly this. It's as much about the notes he _doesn't_ play as the ones he does, and where he puts the notes he plays. It just feels good.
in the pocket, phrasing, feel, melody ... one of my all time favourite solos is Gary Moore's Empty Rooms (extended) Stockholm 1987. Can't Stop Watching this. The Loner (same concert) is also out of this world. Sorry to be a bit off topic - but the title 'Can't stop' immediately triggered the association to Gary's incredible solos
If the vibrant spirit of George Benson could hover over most of today's artists and fall like a mist until their souls were transformed by that wondrous skill and precision, how wonderful this world would be.
George grew up in the R&B soulful church environment which is where you learn and get that stuff in your blood. All of the players who came up in that blues, soul old school R&B has that and makes them hipper than anybody else
George is the bomb because of his crossover career his jazz roots are sometimes obscured, but fundamentally, he is an artisan guitar player with a great voice and a talent for wide reaching audience appeal. Love the guy❤
What metal shredders could learn from George; build intensity by dropping those hot licks into a groove. He also knows when to stop, accent or bend to build that tension. I remember hearing Nuno say something akin to become a great guitar player, learn (or listen intently) to drums. Something like that. It's that air in between that give you the room to blow.
What has always impressed me about George Benson, from my first listen of the Breezin' album onward, is how he can sing his solos while he plays them. Most musicians would do well to improvise his solos on an instrument or with their voice. The way he can do both simultaneously seems superhuman. Just amazing.
I was a 14 year old kid in the early 80's who was learning to play guitar and I idolized all the popular early 80's metal players. And One day I walked in the house and my step-dad was playing George Benson On Broadway. I was blown away with his style and technique and "feel". Completely blown away. I listened to it over and over again and drove my family crazy with it. I couldn't get enough. Absolutely loved it, and still do.
I first heard Benson's "Breezin" album when I was 20. I was blown away by his playing and his singing. In fact, this album turned me onto jazz music, which I had never cared for before. Been a jazz afficionado ever since, particularly jazz guitar. I have everything Benson has ever recorded, and I can spend an entire day listening to him non-stop. True genius, and a very humble man. He brings joy into our lives.
Thank you, Rick, for sharing your joy of music with us so that we can celebrate together. As a guitar player, I especially appreciate these breakdowns. I'll be jamming with this video tonight.
I recently saw a jazz guitar player in a little bar in Portugal that just blew me away like that. So smooth and happy sounding like he was just breathing through his guitar. Great Video 🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸
WOW Rick!!! Wonderful playing by Benson AND you Rick! You never cease to amaze me! I don’t know if you know Ron Eschete (pronounced “Esch -tay”) He’s an amazing 7-string jazz guitarist based on the west coast. He’s (unfortunately) another WAY UNDERRATED genius player that I wish you would interview. There is a great RUclips video of he and George Benson playing together on a gig with Joey Defrancisco. Another great example of the importance of playing in the pocket and time feel by both guitarists. Check it out - and please interview Ronnie. I know you’ll dig him!
I was one of Ron's students at GIT and then in private after I'd graduated. Yes, the gig you're talkig about with George was at Steamers in Fullerton, CA. It was absolutely smokin' hot. Ron is nothing short of a living legend and it's a crime that more people don't know about him!
The feel comes a lot from singing the notes. Many guitarists - especially the shredders - don’t sing the notes they are playing. David Gilmour’s advice to your son Dylan was priceless.
My thoughts exactly! Although of a different style, Jimi used to 'scat' with his guitar incredibly well. Chick Corea used to say 'only play what you hear'.
Yes, insanely great! About "pocket": I watched Tim Pierce and Rhett Shull today talking about things that set pro guitarist ahead of semi pro's or hobbyists. And Tim quoted another studio guitarist having said that when he set out to do studio work he needed to become like a drummer in essence and on the guitar. I take that as paraphrasing something to the effect of pocket. And yes, those triplets: Not only are they in the pocket with the entire phrase, but each of them also perfectly "spaced" over the sub divisions of the beat. 😮 Amazing, indeed!
This reminds me of Donnie Hathaway live “The Ghetto” One of my favorite things ever (the whole album, as well). Phil Upchurch and Mike Howards on guitars, and Willie Weeks on bass. Recorded in small rooms (the Troubadour and the Bitter End). SUCH a groove/vibe. Talk about POCKET. And, nice bonus, the audience can sing in tune, and clap in time. One of the best live albums of all time. Desert Island disc
There’s never the greatest of anything in music, no greatest drummer, guitar, bass etc. It’s when you get a great musician to move like this: 1:20 you know. That how things a measured how good you are 😂
Rick, your appreciation of great playing is contagious. Then your insights demystify the playing. Oh, it's still impossible to play like Benson, but at least we have a sense of what he's thinking.
This is the kind of thing that makes me want to put my guitar back on its stand and leave it there..... for ever. Maybe not quite but a talent this rarified leaves you lost for meaningful words, just beautiful to watch. Fine playing from Rick it must be said, these jazz guys are something else!
back in 1975, I saw George and Joe Pass in a double bill at Ebbett's Field in Denver. George made it look effortless and Joe played the most ridiculously difficult stuff. Yes, it was disheartening, and mind boggling at the same time. But, I did get better after a few months, I suspect you will too. Have Faith.
I remember watching this performance as a kid. I’m 36 now and to this day I still play this on repeat. Those triples that he plays were my favorite part. Prime example of someone whose instrument is an extension of themselves. He’s incredible.
There are many younger players that are technically proficient but seem to lack “feeling”. There is one young finger stylist I’m thinking of in particular. I won’t mention names or genders. They are to the point absolutely astounding but I don’t feel anything when they play. The complete opposite of this is Kent Nishimura. His renditions of any cover can bring such feelings in certain cases more than the originals.
Was working the Playboy Jazz Festival at Hollywood Bowl in the early 80's as a radio DJ. Backstage getting actualities from artists to replay on my jazz show. George Benson stood out as the most genuine person there. He was SO COOL, so down to earth... he even went to get ME a cold beer while we talked. Never forget how very, very relatable he was, despite being an awesome talent and a major star. He could of had major attitude -- like Cosby and Miles Davis -- but instead he was humble and pure. Tops in my book. (You're pretty awesome, too, Rick!)
15 year old here (so probably over shooting the whole young players thing), I've never had an issue with feel or anything like that that you were talking about, but what really seems to mess me up, and I probably speak for a lot of people, is the technical aspect of it. We've got the feel and the rhythm but for some reason we can't navigate the up and down strums in the right places 😂
When you are young, you take time to build up your fingers and muscle memory. Once you know how different pattern sounds and you start to get the hang of it. Also, trust me you have to be polished technically first for the song before you can apply proper feel
To be honest, this is something that a lot of young players can’t even hear yet in their playing, can’t tell the difference of good vs bad time. Have you recorded yourself and listened back?
It is nice how you transmit this desire of just taking a solo and try to replicate it with the same intention, feeling , power or at least as a gift from another musician. Thank you for giving me back a little piece of thrill here.
Jeff Beck did most of his playing off of feel. His phrasing, the different ways he would pick a note, the volume and tone of each note, the bending of a note with either his finger on the fretboard or with the whammy bar, etc. Jeff was absolutely in control of the feel for every note he ever played. I grew up listening to George Benson because he was from Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and a awesome guitarist. I grew up listening to Jeff Beck because the path he followed with his guitar playing was from another universe! I am really surprised you never have spoken about the Jeff Beck Effect; maybe because it is unattainable by any other guitarist?
@@raceandrodeo There is no doubt about that. Jeff always said he wanted to play where chaos and beauty intersect. JB certainly succeeded! He was the genius guitar wizard.👍✌️🤙
I saw George in the summer of 1976, the summer that This Masquerade came out. Michael Franks was the warm up act, and he was jazzed because he had forgotten his strap in LA and he was getting to use George's strap. It's the one on the back of the Breezin' album, BTW. After Michael's set, George and the band came out, and the bass player came out with his precision and a tambourine. Plugged in the bass, and then dropped the tambourine onto the floor and stepped into it. Played amazingly on both instruments all night. But George amazed me (and does to this day) because for the life of me, I can't reconcile what I'm seeing with what I'm hearing. His fingers float. Just an amazing thing to watch all night, and I was about 10' away, with a clear visual of his left hand. Blew my socks off. I didn't take the guitar out of the case for about 3 days, there was no point to it. I had to sit and digest what I had seen before I could go back to it. Then I went off to get my professional diploma from Berklee and have never looked back.
Hey Rick! Sat my 19 year old down and I watched him just melt into being a GB fan. On his bedroom walls he’s got his fav guitarists: Beck. SRV. Jimi. BB. Eric Johnson
Gotta find a George Benson poster for him for Xmas now. Funny, he prefers posters where the guitarist is smoking a cigarette…and he doesn’t smoke. Kids these days lol
You gave me quality time with my kid man…thanks
There’s a great black & white photo of GB smoking taken by the legendary Francis Wolff during the sessions for Lou Donaldson’s “Alligator Boogaloo” album. Rare because he’s long since stopped smoking, this was when he was in his 20s. It’s not hard to find with an image search. I’d link to it, but it won’t seem to let me.
Nice! I found George Benson when I was 20 and couldn't listen to anything else for a year haha
Show him the video of George playing 'Take Five,' live, with Sadao Watanabi on sax. (Spelling?)
Has he heard Chris Whitley?
@@JeffMTX not on his radar ATM…suggestions?
I appreciate a lot of what you do, but my favorite thing about you is your infectious enthusiasm for so many different genres of music.
I've watched several long videos on jazz guitar improvisation and learned almost nothing. You come with a 6-minute video and teach me more than all those videos combined. Thank you, Rick!
Frankly, you tell me, but I really don’t know how you’d go about trying to actually teach that. And I’m not even talking about the genius of something like the timing & feel of George Benson, which is obviously God-given….
Exactly what I was thinking you said it very well
@lplucasarts Question for you - & any other guitar players: my son-in-law plays guitar in a blues/rock bank, but he only plays by ear. Do you know, would he be able to benefit from Rick's new music theory course for songwriters, or would you need to be able to read music to learn from the course? I was thinking of buying it for him as a Christmas present.
@@DeeEllEff, which is essentially exactly what Rick says at the beginning of the video. Can't be taught, but can be developed. Or, yes, God-given.
@@ericlineback6848 Yessiree.
People sleeping on GB just don’t know how amazing he is. Humble and deep deep knowledge of music and feel. A legend.
Not sure his knowledge of music is that deep in general, but wen it comes to blues, and jazz, bluesy jazz or jazzy blues it sure is.😁
Back in the day people knew of his talent for sure.
GB has been my hero for decades. In a different genre, Redd Volkaert is another under appreciated player.
GB does not come across as humble... but then again, why would he be? GB is a legend.
Facts!!!!
Not only does he play such complicated riffs smooth it seems like he's even smoother when he sings the notes too, just incredible!
He is playing what he is singing which is the distinction a lot of people miss. Many people tell me he sings what he plays and I have to explain it is the opposite. Improvisation is pretty much exactly that, playing what he hears and sometimes he sings it as he plays it😊
thats how it goes regularly. A musician goes the more easy (and better) way, to memorise first, and as soon you hvae that sound in mind, your hands/fingers follows. I am deep in Indian classics. Three the oral memorizing (singing) is essential part of the music education and practise of even the biggest maestros.
@@LoganPEade This is a skill and like EVERY other, you get better at it the more you do it. There are things you can do with an instrument that are difficult or impossible vocally. I have found that singing the line you’re playing helps make your soloing more lyrical, hence accessible especially to an untrained ear. You will tend to go down the technical rabbit hole less frequently.
My neighbors took me to see George Benson in 1980 at the Circle Star. My first concert. I wasn’t even into him. I wanted to see rock concerts. But that concert ruined many subsequent concerts by other artists, because the show was amazing and I’ll never forget how happy people were dancing in the aisles and how good he was. Thank you GB.
I saw George Benson circa 1994 in Wellington, New Zealand. It is still the best concert that I've been to. He is a class act in every respect.
About that time I saw mr Benson in Athens Greece, but I saw also his soundcheck and that blew me away
It’s rough growing up as a Bay Area music fan after the time of the Circle Star lol.
A true master of his instrument!
Circle Star!!!! I was talking about that venue with one of my younger co-workers! I saw some fantastic shows there! There's certainly nothing like it today.
I’m following George Benson since I was 16 now I’m 61. I’ve seen him eight or 10 times in Europe and in my hometown Cologne Germany His music has a big influence for my life and taste of music beside Earth, Wind & Fire
@gerdcorona7046 We must be brothers from a different mother !
@@Robert-z9x You are not the only ones ...
Mr. Benson has the technique to be sure, but I'm afraid that he totally ruined "Take Five" by playing it in a "funky", stiff, eighth-note rhythm. Just my personal opinion. No one has to be angry with me because of it. I appreciate Mr. Benson as much as anyone and we are both from Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania by the way.
@@karlruffing4237 yes indeed it’s another interpretation but I love the funky style
PLUS...he sings while he's playing it!!! He is such a spectacular musician! He needs to get way more credit than he does.
Actually, singing your solos and/or improvs is a good way to learn and play. If you can sing it, you can play it. Try it. Well, maybe you don't play, but it works. And if you can sing it but can't play it? Keep playing until you can.
You know it's kind of crazy how good of a guitar player Rick is. He doesn't draw attention to it. But that dude can play.
I need to live a couple lives concurrently so I have a shot at pouring all that skill and knowledge into my own head. Some people are close to being genius level and they just don't know it....or maybe they do.
A lot of musicians are only focused on one genre. Then there are those certain special individuals who can adapt to any style of music. Rick is part of the latter.
His refusal to call himself a guitarist literally ruined me on the instrument for awhile, though. If someone that good refuses to call himself a guitarist, what does that make me? A step above Guitar Hero, on my best day. That's what.
Rick is a virtuoso.
It's nuts how much he knows!
George Benson is my #1 favorite guitarist. In the late 70's I bought every single album that he produced and listened to them 24/7. I remember his Charlie Christian tribute sessions with Benny Goodman on public TV. He could play any bebop, jazz or smooth jazz style and ultimately created his own style. Great video and great lesson Rick!
I worked for a production company back in the early 2000s and we did a show at Red Bank, NJ for George Benson. It was unbelievable! His singing and playing were out of this world. I was so inspired I wrote an instrumental song the next morning on Father's Day. My daughter gave me a hand-drawn picture of a sunset that she labeled "Sunset Picture" for Father's Day. (She was about 10 at the time.) I titled the song "Sunset Picture". One of my favorite life memories tied to music and fatherhood.
What a beautiful story!
Would that be the Count Basie theater?
I would like to hear the tune!
Very beautiful 🧡
@@axistiltproductions thank you!
lets not forget to mention he's also singing those notes in that great voice .. I always knew he was a monster player but when I first heard him sing I was blown away
Incredibile talent!
😆he ruins his soloos with that "scatting" 😁
🎯
@@FlyingV344maybe you should try it and see what you can glean. An open mind is a powerful force.
SImply one of the most technically gifted and musically versatile guitarists, his fluid, melodic phrasing and masterful improvisational skills can't be beat. Salute & Peace
I say this with all sincerity, I love you Rick. Your passion for music is infectious and your videos are an absolute joy to watch. Thank you. 🙏
True
I agree completely!
Rick I always love your enthusiasm in every video.
I'm astounded how well integrated your scene is, Maestro Beato. Right from Maestro Benson to the lesson
that is so pleasurable, easy to understand and feel. I anticipate future guitarists, your students, achieving
greatness because of the greatness of their teacher. Thank you Rick.☮
Subscribing to both Beato channels has been such a musical education & awakening for me, as a guitar player & as a music fan in general!
Both?
I just purchased one of George's guitars from his personal collection, Ibanez GB10EM-AA 5B-02 Owned by George Benson. Always been a huge fan. I recorded a few songs in his recording studio in Lahaina Maui back in the early 90s, to shop in Los Angeles for a recording deal. I love watching Benson's concerts on YT.
He's doing just what Skunk Baxter was talking about in your interview with him, learn to "sing" with the guitar and it becomes your voice. So cool to see it in application.
I thought of George Benson when he said that
I thought of Gilmour, who does the same.
Said the same thing,2 hours after you did!
Yes! Play guitar with sax phrasing
That's the first thing I noticed 🙂 pretty cool
I think what makes him so special is he always layer’s everything with blues goodness
Had the pleasure of seeing George Benson with Al Jarreau… both were AMAZING live.
You’re Fortunate! 👏👏👏
@ Being a teenager in the 80’s I was hard rock and punk fan. My mother, God rest her soul, was a huge Al Jarreau fan and I took her to see him every time he came into town. I believe it was his last tour, a double bill with George Benson. I indeed was fortunate and have very fond memories of each show.
Woooow unbelivable😎 🙏🙏❤️
WOW!!!
I am 68, nearly 69 and heard George Benson when I was about 16, our teen group would meet up twice a month on a weekend to share our new music (vinyl) purchases. There were about 6 to 10 of us sitting in someone’s bedroom or a garage in a circle on cushions listening and discussing and more importantly learning about each other’s musical tastes. I was the guitarist type and would often have maybe Tal Farlow, George Benson, Django Reinhard or John McLaughlin - talking about how Django saved Tony Iommi’s career when he chopped his great hand finger tips off and then heard Django playing Nuages and giving Tony renewed hope and focus to move forward. Your video of Benson was great the man had a certain touch, like BB King or even Les Paul. Something I have learned over time is listening to these players across all genres fed into new players. Clapton was God, Peter Green was Jesus and Rory Gallagher was just himself - Total Guitar 250 list is a joke because it was written by someone who is too young to understand what the source material means and were it came from. CDs for me saved my lifetime soundtrack as it reintroduced rare vinyl that the industry had deleted from their catalogs and allowed me, older and wealthier to invest in hard to find rarities. So many great albums and artists are being forgotten or lost to shows like The Voice or AGT where they have a winner who signs a record deal but they don’t have their own feel or touch or sound and their longevity is extremely limited. I loved Benson playing his Jazz, and like later stuff as well but I felt he was trying to hard to be everything to everyone and he was reasonably successful in his endeavour. Simplicity is just a display of someone who has worked damned hard to hone his skill and craft with his own style and creativity. He makes it look easy but it is not easy - bit like trying to play like Jeff Beck or Rory Gallagher when it looks easy to you then you can be sure that you have missed something and you don’t really understand what you need to be hearing. As usual great content again.
I wonder if the reason some young players lack this is because most current music is quantized. Feel is all about how a person plays, but locking everything to a grid ruins that. If that's the only kind of music you hear, you might start playing like that and never really develop your own feel.
Spot on 👍🏾
You could be on to something!
Well said.
It's because they all repeat the same SRV licks seeing who can rip through a pentatonic scale the fastest.
Rick has talked about this before, especially in his Bonham vids, where he puts Zeppelin tracks in a DAW and quantizes them, making them suck.
George Benson is the only act that I ever tipped the maitre’d in LV to sit in the front row. About ‘86. In a creamy white suit, he played his ass off and the sweat just poured off him. Incredible music.
Yeah, well he’s George Benson….
Real
I'm too young to be George Benson
Your comment pretty much sums up anything thatI was going to type in response to the foolishly worded title giving to this video.
Yeah, I’m glad the video said “MOST young people” because imo like George Benson had a nice feel on even his earlier records before he started to sing more, he just got more and more refined as time went on.
Not to be confused with Richard Benson 😂
The way you explain a solo part and how it was done, it's something that push me not to give up and keep learning new stuff. Thank you Rick
George Benson is one of a handful that crossed the jazzy, funk, r&b side of radio air play to getting a lot of airplay on Rock stations because of his kick but vocal/guitar phrasing in his live version of Broadway!!! So good❤️😎
Yep, George Benson plays George Benson.
George really is a force of nature and how he scats note perfect to what he's playing is genius!
Those triples - I keep re-listening and my ears still can’t believe it.
George deserves far more attention than he gets. Man could lay down a groove like few others.
absolutely!
I don’t play any instruments, but love music ! 1st concert Jethro Tull Aqualung tour , San Diego Sports Arena 1971 . I was 15 yrs old at the time. Rick , I enjoy your passion for music, and your interviews are outstanding. Thanks so much !
I love locomotive breath :)
Ha! One of my very first concerts was the Aqualung tour. Saw them at Bradley University in illinois. Great amazing event. I saw a guy several seats to my right bent over and freaking out. I asked somebody what's going on over there and he said he's tripping real hard on acid. At that time I didn't even smoke pot. It only took me a couple of years to figure out exactly what that guy was going through because I did it a few too many times myself!
How have I been playing for twenty years and never really heard George Benson before. Absolutely gorgeous playing.
🤯👍🍻
Rick. Did u ever consider having a quick jam with the people u interview? Would be cool to see u collaborate musically as well as an interview. Keep going much appreciation to u and your family.
@@GregAdams-c3t No, that would be a disaster, especially if you interview GB.
Insane is a great description! Two jazz chords, so much going on!
And Rick got his skills going on! 🙏🏻
Your enthusiasm is contagious! Ooooooo! Back in the day, George Benson was HUGE! Love him! 🥰 Sometimes, it’s as though he isn’t playing and singing, he channels the music. You can see it oozing out of him! 😉Incredible!
What George did there, and as David Gilmore does (Wish You Were Here), was sing the notes they’re playing. This method has always helped me learn new material and fix most timing mistakes when I can’t find the groove.
@jayluck8047 It's called scatting. I've never been able to do it, though.
* Gilmour *
@kwyatt261 Lighten up, Bro. Living with the folks in this day and age does y
not make you a loser.
I can definitely sing along in my head, but singing out loud while playing...fugitaboutit!
I can't memorize a tune without the notes (la do, I can't imagine how you do that with letters).
Good improvisers hear what they are going to play. I suck at it on kds but I'm just a drummer.
@@kwyatt261 You can't find any job ? In the 70s, you could find a job in two hours.
I left my folks at 20, to be a loader, then a nurse in psychiatry. I would have done anything. Never regretted it. A few years later, I made a living with music.
Perhaps you have a job, but you can't afford to rent a flat ? Tough times.
Rick, so glad you still find music you're excited about! I worry that your knowledge can effect your ability to enjoy things. Hope you get serious about recording, I think you seriously underestimate how many people would greatly enjoy that. Godspeed.
Wondering when you were going to showcase my all time number one guitar hero George Benson, been playing his GB-10 since 1978! He's still killin' it! Guy launched a million jazz guitarists in the mid 70s. That's my hero...
He did a full interview
Have you seen the interview? Rick featured him several months ago.
@@outermarker5801 Thank you! Missed it, watching it now, what a great story. That man deserves every gift God can give him and is a GREAT role model for young guitar players.
@@GoDrex Thank you, watching it now. BIG strong hands, made for HEAVY gauge strings!
Took a few Metalhead friends to see George in the late 80s in Prov RI. Jaws were dropped, fans were made. They were high fiving half the night it was insane. George was smoking that night too.
What was George smoking?
Fantastic. As Skunk said in your interview, if you can sing it, you can learn to play it. 👍
I thought that was a fantastic point as well!
And nobody does it better. GB has been teaching himself to 'sing' the guitar his whole life.
I've seen George more times than any jazz musician. Have a photo with George when I got a backstage pass included with the ticket scalper I used to get my tickets from back in the day in Houston! I came from a rock/pop and classical piano upbringing since mom was a piano teacher, but when I heard George play when I was self learning guitar, no pedals, no effects, just straight clear sweet guitar tone, he WON OUT against all other players in my book... Just his rich melodic and rhythmic vocabulary hit me harder than anyone else when Breezin' came out and so I started chasing that, learning those songs by ear... good memories.
was born a drummer, literally...grew up playing in church, was four years old playing with the adult band and holding my own....say all this to say, now that im playing guitar, my feel is always what im complimented on the most
Same here. Started drums in 5th grade in the late 60s with the 'all city music program' in school, in the meantime taught myself guitar by listening to the usual suspects, Santana, Hendrix, Beck, Clapton...and some local guys who showed me stuff, been playing ever since. I get compliments on my timing more than anything, I chalk it up to my drum training.
@@fattone166 absolutely. i owe a lot to my experience playing in church. developed pro level time and feel subconsciously. not knowing at the time the skills i was developing.
Going in the other direction… Been playing guitar, my whole life, but started playing drums about four years ago… Just for fun and also to work on my sense of rhythm. There’s just something magical about drumming… it’s so much in the body, and in the moment. Rhythm is King.
Shannon Forrest (Toto's drummer) said in a interview that he had nothing to do : these guys all have a perfect timing. The sound depends on it. I'm currently working en las canciones de Havana D'Primera (Música Cubana of course), the precision and groove of these musicians are astonishing. Tough music, and the drum intros are sometimes everything but clear!
I have been playing 40 plus years. I still suck, but love playing guitar. I watch you because you have musical epiphanies that I cannot ever have - and THANK YOU for those epiphanies, It makes me love the language of music I yearn to understand ever so meaningful when you break it down -= George Benson is a Beethoven or a Mozart, BTW. Some folks are just that musically perfect. God Bless those who were gifted with such talent and passion.
Playing in time and groove might actually be more important than nailing exact notes. I think people really respond more to rhythm.
You can play any sequence of notes, but as long as the rhythmic feel is good, it will sound musical.
Awesome comment! With ya 100z
Kenny Werner used to do a thing in his clinics where he would play the identical licks (one time through in a 12 bar blues) in all twelve keys over ONE key - MFer swung so hard it sounded great every time through 🤘💥
Timing is everything. Without it nothing has context.
Chuck Rainy said rhythm is more important than the notes all being 'right".....
I love that Rick is playing air guitar while holding a guitar.
He doesn't want to step on Benson - can't blame him!
lol 😁
I have met George, I have seen him live 7 times, For me, he is the greatest guitarist of ALL time, then you remember he is an excellent vocalist and its mind blown. By the way, one of the nicest people I have ever met.
George is incredible. He's been one of my favorite guitarists for a long time. The way he can sing and play exactly the same thing simultaneously at that speed is amazing. I don't think he gets anywhere near the recognition he deserves as an absolutely monster guitar player.
I love this channel. Lost some passion after weird life circumstances ended schooling for audio production. Been ten years, getting back into it- watching this channel evokes that excitement and motivation again. Feels awesome. Benson is nuts!!!!!! And dang, Beato, that Ibanez is beautiful.
Rick, listening to you describe the mechanics and the nuances and watching you articulate so easily it’s like listening to music itself
I have no knowledge or experience of playing the guitar but Rick is so good to listen too. It’s all fascinating stuff. Also, I have just watched his 45 minute talk with Matteo Mancuso. Utterly absorbing and Matteo is other worldly. I have loved listening to all genres of electric guitar since the late 70’s which is why the mechanics of playing this instrument is so interesting.
I've always loved George's sound and feel. First noticed it as a kid with his record, "On Broadway". Didn't care too much about his hit records, but they are a part of my childhood so they're not that bad. But this solo blows them all out of the water.
The master. One of the greatest I had the privilege of seeing live up close as an undergrad at a PSU Jazz Festival. An indelible impression! Love George. Perfect. Yes sir!!
I saw GB back in the late seventies shortly after his release of "On Broadway". he is an amazing guitarist and has only gotten better over the years.
I love how you react to the small things. That’s what great music played to great ears does, it affect the whole being
Pocket, feel.
Pat Metheny talked about this in a lesson that was recorded decades ago. His attention to where he plays each note is key to feel and totally under his control.
Agreed. I always have a good feel in the pocket. Those who know, know and just give you a nod like 'yeah'. Those who don't, haven't a clue - which suits me fine.
Pat said the first thing he wants to hear you play is quarter notes........
@ Right. I bet that lesson was taken off of RUclips long ago. I think I have a recording of it.
Fantastic video Rick. Feel is like the magic backbone of music, human music. The flow, the rhythm and energy and those wonderful spaces or gaps which let you see through to the supporting structures like the other band members, and instruments in the background. George is just warming up then is a smoking fire in no time. I love the way any master musician like GB solos so elegantly, but it conveys the motion of graceful stumbling, as if they are tripping down a path or set of stairs and climbing back up again, so beautiful. ❤
You mentioned the "Gilmour Effect" a million times and here it is. Why do people prefer Gilmour's playing? THIS. Exactly this. It's as much about the notes he _doesn't_ play as the ones he does, and where he puts the notes he plays. It just feels good.
in the pocket, phrasing, feel, melody ... one of my all time favourite solos is Gary Moore's Empty Rooms (extended) Stockholm 1987. Can't Stop Watching this. The Loner (same concert) is also out of this world. Sorry to be a bit off topic - but the title 'Can't stop' immediately triggered the association to Gary's incredible solos
If the vibrant spirit of George Benson could hover over most of today's artists and fall like a mist until their souls were transformed by that wondrous skill and precision, how wonderful this world would be.
Very nicely worded.
ur interview with mr. benson is what turned me onto his music, so thank u sir
Hello there, how are you doing
George grew up in the R&B soulful church environment which is where you learn and get that stuff in your blood. All of the players who came up in that blues, soul old school R&B has that and makes them hipper than anybody else
George is the bomb because of his crossover career his jazz roots are sometimes obscured, but fundamentally, he is an artisan guitar player with a great voice and a talent for wide reaching audience appeal. Love the guy❤
Ah! George Benson! I had the privilege of working on the Riverboat President during Jazz Fast in 1988. What a talent! George has, as I call it, "It"!😊
God Bless you maam👌
This is one of the best channels of any kind of media. Amazing interviews with legends that are informative, entertaining and full of love.
What metal shredders could learn from George; build intensity by dropping those hot licks into a groove. He also knows when to stop, accent or bend to build that tension. I remember hearing Nuno say something akin to become a great guitar player, learn (or listen intently) to drums. Something like that. It's that air in between that give you the room to blow.
🤦
What has always impressed me about George Benson, from my first listen of the Breezin' album onward, is how he can sing his solos while he plays them. Most musicians would do well to improvise his solos on an instrument or with their voice. The way he can do both simultaneously seems superhuman. Just amazing.
I was a 14 year old kid in the early 80's who was learning to play guitar and I idolized all the popular early 80's metal players. And One day I walked in the house and my step-dad was playing George Benson On Broadway. I was blown away with his style and technique and "feel". Completely blown away. I listened to it over and over again and drove my family crazy with it. I couldn't get enough. Absolutely loved it, and still do.
Now try George Benson's "OFF Broadway"!
@@RideAcrossTheRiver 👍👏👍
@@yulbrenner5526 Gah-roo-vay
Enjoyed a GB performance at the Hollywood Bowl in the 1990's. Such a great performer and deep repertoire!
Reminds me of Sir Gilmour singing wish you were here, singing along with the phrases. That’s soul baby!
I first heard Benson's "Breezin" album when I was 20. I was blown away by his playing and his singing. In fact, this album turned me onto jazz music, which I had never cared for before. Been a jazz afficionado ever since, particularly jazz guitar. I have everything Benson has ever recorded, and I can spend an entire day listening to him non-stop. True genius, and a very humble man. He brings joy into our lives.
Finally, someone mentioning "feel' and "pocket". I've always tried to be a student of those things ever since I started playing in 1968. Thanks Rick!
Thank you, Rick, for sharing your joy of music with us so that we can celebrate together. As a guitar player, I especially appreciate these breakdowns. I'll be jamming with this video tonight.
Well it's Benson. This is what he does. All solo's. He's amazing.
I recently saw a jazz guitar player in a little bar in Portugal that just blew me away like that. So smooth and happy sounding like he was just breathing through his guitar. Great Video 🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸🎸
I think you get feel from playing with others in a live setting a lot and really listening
That's right. You can't teach someone groove or feel. It has to be developed (or God-given). And that's indeed the best way to develop it, I believe.
WOW Rick!!! Wonderful playing by Benson AND you Rick! You never cease to amaze me! I don’t know if you know Ron Eschete (pronounced “Esch -tay”) He’s an amazing 7-string jazz guitarist based on the west coast. He’s (unfortunately) another WAY UNDERRATED genius player that I wish you would interview. There is a great RUclips video of he and George Benson playing together on a gig with Joey Defrancisco. Another great example of the importance of playing in the pocket and time feel by both guitarists. Check it out - and please interview Ronnie. I know you’ll dig him!
I was one of Ron's students at GIT and then in private after I'd graduated. Yes, the gig you're talkig about with George was at Steamers in Fullerton, CA. It was absolutely smokin' hot. Ron is nothing short of a living legend and it's a crime that more people don't know about him!
Saw Benson in Philly in '77. Memorable!
Me too! It may have been that year. Bijou Cafe (?) with Billy Crystal opening.
@2tallB Robin Hood Dell Park. Outdoor amphitheater.
@ ah, ok 👍🏼
Those first couple of solo albums from the 60’s by George are some of my favorites. Smokin!
The feel comes a lot from singing the notes. Many guitarists - especially the shredders - don’t sing the notes they are playing. David Gilmour’s advice to your son Dylan was priceless.
My thoughts exactly! Although of a different style, Jimi used to 'scat' with his guitar incredibly well. Chick Corea used to say 'only play what you hear'.
Yes, insanely great! About "pocket": I watched Tim Pierce and Rhett Shull today talking about things that set pro guitarist ahead of semi pro's or hobbyists. And Tim quoted another studio guitarist having said that when he set out to do studio work he needed to become like a drummer in essence and on the guitar. I take that as paraphrasing something to the effect of pocket.
And yes, those triplets: Not only are they in the pocket with the entire phrase, but each of them also perfectly "spaced" over the sub divisions of the beat. 😮 Amazing, indeed!
He's performing Donny Hathaway's "The Ghetto". Also think of Santana's and/or Tito Puente's "Oye Como Va". Both are in Am progressions.
Also like Samba Pa Ti.i
Your love of music is infectious. Great show as always.
Nothing better than watching Rick's facial expressions when he's listening to music he appreciates! 😃
He stole some of those straight off my own face. (We share a birthday several years apart.) But I do agree with you on that.
This reminds me of Donnie Hathaway live “The Ghetto”
One of my favorite things ever (the whole album, as well). Phil Upchurch and Mike Howards on guitars, and Willie Weeks on bass. Recorded in small rooms (the Troubadour and the Bitter End). SUCH a groove/vibe. Talk about POCKET. And, nice bonus, the audience can sing in tune, and clap in time. One of the best live albums of all time. Desert Island disc
There’s never the greatest of anything in music, no greatest drummer, guitar, bass etc. It’s when you get a great musician to move like this: 1:20 you know. That how things a measured how good you are 😂
Rick, your appreciation of great playing is contagious. Then your insights demystify the playing. Oh, it's still impossible to play like Benson, but at least we have a sense of what he's thinking.
You say feel and pocket - my mind goes straight to Knopfler on the Alchemy live album
Maybe start a new channel - what makes this song f*****g insanely great - start with the live version of Telegraph Road (Alchemy)
@sainsy907 As soon as I saw your first comment, I wanted to mention Telegraph Road, but you beat me to it! Awesome performance!
@@35milesoflead my cousin lent me a copy of that concert in VHS when I was 12. Was blown away then, still blows me away 40 years later.
That album is absolutely EPIC!
This is the kind of thing that makes me want to put my guitar back on its stand and leave it there..... for ever.
Maybe not quite but a talent this rarified leaves you lost for meaningful words, just beautiful to watch.
Fine playing from Rick it must be said, these jazz guys are something else!
back in 1975, I saw George and Joe Pass in a double bill at Ebbett's Field in Denver. George made it look effortless and Joe played the most ridiculously difficult stuff. Yes, it was disheartening, and mind boggling at the same time.
But, I did get better after a few months, I suspect you will too. Have Faith.
This is why I love music.
The way he can scat over his solos. He can can play anything he has in his mind. That is why the feel is so incredible.
LOVE the vids rick keep it up :)
I remember watching this performance as a kid. I’m 36 now and to this day I still play this on repeat. Those triples that he plays were my favorite part. Prime example of someone whose instrument is an extension of themselves. He’s incredible.
There are many younger players that are technically proficient but seem to lack “feeling”. There is one young finger stylist I’m thinking of in particular. I won’t mention names or genders. They are to the point absolutely astounding but I don’t feel anything when they play.
The complete opposite of this is Kent Nishimura. His renditions of any cover can bring such feelings in certain cases more than the originals.
I'm just glad I was able to hear him play when I was young. The interview you did with GB was pure Gold. 🎸💯❤️
You are to music what Alton Brown is to food. This tastes good, here's the science behind it. This sounds good, here's the theory behind it.
He's more Kenji than Alton thank goodness
Benson is killer live
You realize he's really improvising, so fluid no repetition or planned playing
Very inspiring!
Was working the Playboy Jazz Festival at Hollywood Bowl in the early 80's as a radio DJ. Backstage getting actualities from artists to replay on my jazz show. George Benson stood out as the most genuine person there. He was SO COOL, so down to earth... he even went to get ME a cold beer while we talked. Never forget how very, very relatable he was, despite being an awesome talent and a major star. He could of had major attitude -- like Cosby and Miles Davis -- but instead he was humble and pure. Tops in my book. (You're pretty awesome, too, Rick!)
15 year old here (so probably over shooting the whole young players thing), I've never had an issue with feel or anything like that that you were talking about, but what really seems to mess me up, and I probably speak for a lot of people, is the technical aspect of it. We've got the feel and the rhythm but for some reason we can't navigate the up and down strums in the right places 😂
Luke.... Use the force. I'm serious, just FEEL IT.
When you are young, you take time to build up your fingers and muscle memory. Once you know how different pattern sounds and you start to get the hang of it. Also, trust me you have to be polished technically first for the song before you can apply proper feel
To be honest, this is something that a lot of young players can’t even hear yet in their playing, can’t tell the difference of good vs bad time. Have you recorded yourself and listened back?
Notice GB sings his notes- THAT'S where he started, but I've heard of alot of guitarists do that.
Practice. And then practice some more. You'll get there!
It is nice how you transmit this desire of just taking a solo and try to replicate it with the same intention, feeling , power or at least as a gift from another musician. Thank you for giving me back a little piece of thrill here.
Jeff Beck did most of his playing off of feel. His phrasing, the different ways he would pick a note, the volume and tone of each note, the bending of a note with either his finger on the fretboard or with the whammy bar, etc. Jeff was absolutely in control of the feel for every note he ever played. I grew up listening to George Benson because he was from Pittsburgh Pennsylvania and a awesome guitarist. I grew up listening to Jeff Beck because the path he followed with his guitar playing was from another universe! I am really surprised you never have spoken about the Jeff Beck Effect; maybe because it is unattainable by any other guitarist?
Jeff was a God. Period.
@@raceandrodeo There is no doubt about that. Jeff always said he wanted to play where chaos and beauty intersect. JB certainly succeeded! He was the genius guitar wizard.👍✌️🤙
I saw George in the summer of 1976, the summer that This Masquerade came out. Michael Franks was the warm up act, and he was jazzed because he had forgotten his strap in LA and he was getting to use George's strap. It's the one on the back of the Breezin' album, BTW.
After Michael's set, George and the band came out, and the bass player came out with his precision and a tambourine. Plugged in the bass, and then dropped the tambourine onto the floor and stepped into it. Played amazingly on both instruments all night.
But George amazed me (and does to this day) because for the life of me, I can't reconcile what I'm seeing with what I'm hearing. His fingers float. Just an amazing thing to watch all night, and I was about 10' away, with a clear visual of his left hand. Blew my socks off. I didn't take the guitar out of the case for about 3 days, there was no point to it. I had to sit and digest what I had seen before I could go back to it.
Then I went off to get my professional diploma from Berklee and have never looked back.