George Benson Feted by Wyclef Jean & More at Jazz Foundation Fundraiser: ‘Just One Way to Give Back’

Patrice Rushen também estava entre os homenageados, enquanto os convidados incluíam Herb Alpert e o lendário compositor Mike Stoller.

Noting Alpert’s commitment to JFA by “hosting benefits at Vibrato over the past decade,” JFA executive director Joe Petrucelli said, “Through her philanthropic work and leadership, Eden has provided opportunities for veteran and emerging musicians alike while contributing to the vitality of the live music community in Los Angeles.”.

Legendary songwriter Mike Stoller of Leiber & Stoller presented Benson’s award. “I first heard of George as a wonderful jazz guitar player,” Stoller said in part.

The song was ‘On Broadway.’ [This award] is so deserved.”.

During his acceptance speech, Benson name-checked several people who played pivotal roles in his career. In addition to Stoller, those people included Herb Alpert, frontman of famed band Tijuana Brass and co-founder of A&M Records — who helped Benson “buy my first house” — as well as late acclaimed producer Tommy LiPuma, who helmed Benson’s game-changing 1976 album Breezin’.

O baterista premiado com o Grammy Steve Jordan, que atualmente toca com The Rolling Stones, atuou como diretor artístico do evento. Acompanhado por uma banda de músicos de alto nível, Jordan homenageou Benson com um set animado dos clássicos do último: “Breezin’” e “This Masquerade” com o guitarrista Isaiah Sharkey, “Turn Your Love Around” e “Give Me the Night” cantados por Aloe Blacc e “On Broadway” com o vencedor do Grammy Wyclef Jean.

NEA Jazz Master Carmen Lundy led the lineup of the evening’s performers with her opening set, followed by the Titans of Jazz.

Os rendimentos do evento beneficente da noite beneficiam o Fundo de Emergência para Músicos da JFA, que oferece assistência habitacional, cuidados de saúde, socorro em desastres e oportunidades de emprego.

Tudo está em consonância com a missão de 37 anos e contando da organização: “Honrando jazz, blues e raízes … um músico de cada vez.”.