(February 22, 2019) Most music fans know George Benson for his revered early jazz albums or for his three plus decades as the most notable singer and guitarist in the contemporary jazz field. But many of those fans will do a double take at the newest direction that the 75 year old music legend is taking on his upcoming (April 26) album Walking To New Orleans.
The ever-talented Mr. Benson – who we last heard on a Nat “King” Cole tribute album a half decade ago – is now taking a trip back to early rock and roll years and paying tribute to the pioneering music of Chuck Berry and Fats Domino. And the change in direction is readily apparent on the lead single, a fully revved version of Berry’s “Nadine.” With the exception of a jazz flourish and some scatting mid-song, this cut is a faithful step back to the raw Southern R&B of the 1950s, and Benson does the tribute proud.
(February 22, 2019) Most music fans know George Benson for his revered early jazz albums or for his three plus decades as the most notable singer and guitarist in the contemporary jazz field. But many of those fans will do a double take at the newest direction that the 75 year old music legend is taking on his upcoming (April 26) album Walking To New Orleans.
The ever-talented Mr. Benson – who we last heard on a Nat “King” Cole tribute album a half decade ago – is now taking a trip back to early rock and roll years and paying tribute to the pioneering music of Chuck Berry and Fats Domino. And the change in direction is readily apparent on the lead single, a fully revved version of Berry’s “Nadine.” With the exception of a jazz flourish and some scatting mid-song, this cut is a faithful step back to the raw Southern R&B of the 1950s, and Benson does the tribute proud.
It may be a surprising direction to many, but it is a pleasant one. Be sure to check out “Nadine” below and welcome back George Benson!
George Benson – “Nadine”