George Benson stands as a titan in the landscape of soul music and jazz guitar, an artist whose career spans decades and genres. From his early days as a child prodigy to his breakthrough success in the 1970s and 80s, Benson has consistently delivered music that resonates with audiences worldwide. His signature blend of pop sensibilities, soulful vocals, and masterful guitar work has cemented his place among music’s elite. For fans wanting to dive into his extensive catalog, pinpointing the essential George Benson Songs is the perfect starting point.
Here, we explore a definitive list of George Benson’s top 10 songs, each a testament to his enduring talent and musical innovation. This ranking highlights not just his chart-topping hits but also the tracks that showcase his artistic depth and versatility, offering a comprehensive guide to the best of George Benson’s musical legacy.
1. Give Me the Night
George Benson Give Me The Night official music video still
Released in 1980 as the title track from his album of the same name, “Give Me the Night” is a quintessential George Benson song that perfectly encapsulates the vibrant energy of the era. Penned by Heatwave’s Rod Temperton, the same songwriter behind Michael Jackson’s “Thriller,” this track is a masterclass in disco-infused soul. Featuring backing vocals and scat singing from Patti Austin, “Give Me the Night” became an instant classic, soaring into the Top 10 charts in both the UK and the US. Its infectious rhythm and Benson’s smooth vocals made it a staple in clubs and on radio, arguably marking one of the last significant disco hits to dominate the charts.
2. Breezin’
George Benson Breezin live performance on Old Grey Whistle Test 1977 still
“Breezin’,” an instrumental piece initially composed by Bobby Womack and recorded with jazz guitarist Gábor Szabó, took on a new life when George Benson covered it. This smooth jazz track became the cornerstone of Benson’s album of the same name and is perhaps his most recognizable instrumental piece. Released in 1976, “Breezin'” showcases Benson’s exceptional guitar skills and his ability to craft melodies that are both sophisticated and deeply relaxing. The song’s laid-back vibe and polished production made it a crossover hit, appealing to jazz aficionados and pop audiences alike, solidifying its place as one of the best George Benson songs ever recorded.
3. Love X Love
George Benson Love X Love 1980 music video still
Another gem from the collaboration between George Benson and Rod Temperton, “Love X Love” is a standout track from 1980. Produced by the legendary Quincy Jones, this song highlights Benson’s vocal prowess and his ability to infuse jazz sensibilities into pop frameworks. While it didn’t achieve major chart success in the United States, “Love X Love” resonated strongly in the UK, reaching number 10 in 1980. Its sophisticated arrangement and Benson’s charismatic delivery make it a favorite among fans and a testament to his global appeal.
4. Turn Your Love Around
George Benson Turn Your Love Around official music video 1981 still
“Turn Your Love Around” is notable for its impressive songwriting pedigree, crafted by Bill Champlin of Chicago, Steve Lukather of Toto, and producer Jay Graydon. This 1981 hit is a blend of smooth jazz, R&B, and pop, showcasing Benson’s versatility. The story behind the song’s creation is as unique as the track itself, reportedly conceived by Graydon in a moment of bathroom inspiration. “Turn Your Love Around” became a significant hit for Benson, further cementing his status as a crossover artist capable of bridging genres and appealing to a wide audience.
5. Lady Love Me (One More Time)
George Benson Lady Love Me official music video remastered audio HD still
“Lady Love Me (One More Time)” from 1983 is a vibrant and upbeat track co-written by Toto’s David Paich and acclaimed film composer James Newton Howard. This collaboration brought together pop-rock sensibilities with sophisticated musical composition, resulting in a song that’s both catchy and musically rich. Interestingly, this track found greater success in the UK, peaking at number 11, than in the US. Its memorable melody and Benson’s energetic performance make it a standout in his discography and a testament to his ability to consistently produce high-quality, engaging music.
6. On Broadway
George Benson On Broadway album version audio still
“On Broadway” is a classic song with a rich history, originally made famous by The Drifters in 1963. Written by songwriting legends Barry Mann, Cynthia Weil, Jerry Leiber, and Mike Stoller, George Benson reimagined this standard in 1978 as a smooth jazz instrumental. Benson’s rendition is particularly notable for its inclusion in the 1979 film All That Jazz, where it underscored a scene of dancers auditioning. This version not only paid homage to the song’s roots but also showcased Benson’s ability to transform a vocal piece into a compelling instrumental, highlighting his interpretive skills and guitar mastery.
7. The Greatest Love of All
George Benson The Greatest Love of All 2015 GH Version audio still
Before it became a signature song for Whitney Houston, “The Greatest Love of All” was first recorded and released by George Benson in 1976. Written for the film The Greatest, a biopic about Muhammad Ali, Benson’s version achieved Top 30 status in both the UK and US. This ballad showcases Benson’s emotive vocal delivery and his ability to connect with listeners on a deeper level. While Whitney Houston’s 1984 cover eclipsed the original in terms of commercial success, Benson’s rendition remains a powerful and poignant performance, demonstrating his range as a vocalist and interpreter of song.
8. Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You
George Benson Nothing's Gonna Change My Love For You TopPop performance still
“Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You,” penned by Michael Masser and Gerry Goffin, is another song in George Benson’s catalog that achieved greater fame through a cover version. While Benson’s 1985 recording was a modest hit, it was Glenn Medeiros’ 1988 cover that propelled the song to international stardom, reaching number one in the UK. Despite being overshadowed by Medeiros’ version, Benson’s original recording is a testament to the song’s enduring quality and his smooth, heartfelt vocal style.
9. In Your Eyes
George Benson In Your Eyes Live In Montreux 1986 DVD still
“In Your Eyes,” a collaboration between Michael Masser and Dan Hill, the singer of “Sometimes When We Touch,” is a tender love song that became a UK Top 10 hit for George Benson in 1983. This track highlights Benson’s ability to deliver romantic ballads with sincerity and warmth. Its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics, combined with Benson’s smooth vocals, made it a radio favorite and a staple in his live performances, showcasing his enduring appeal in the realm of love songs.
10. Never Give Up on a Good Thing
George Benson Never Give Up On A Good Thing 1981 music video still
Rounding out the list is “Never Give Up on a Good Thing,” a 1982 track that, surprisingly, only reached number 14 in the UK and number 52 in the US charts. Despite its modest initial chart performance, this song has become one of George Benson’s most beloved and recognized tracks. Featured on his Greatest Hits compilation, The George Benson Collection, “Never Give Up on a Good Thing” exemplifies the catchy, soulful pop sound that Benson perfected throughout his career, making it a must-listen for anyone exploring his music.
In conclusion, George Benson’s musical journey is marked by a remarkable consistency of quality and innovation. These top 10 songs represent just a fraction of his extensive and influential catalog, but they offer a compelling introduction to his diverse talents and enduring appeal. From instrumental jazz masterpieces to soulful vocal hits, George Benson’s music continues to inspire and captivate audiences worldwide, solidifying his legacy as one of the greats.
