Body
WHEREAS, born and raised in Pittsburgh's Hill District, George Benson is a widely appreciated jazz musician and performer, whose dual role of expert improviser and vibrant entertainer adds to his virtuosity of music with sly, seductive rhythm and blues guitar playing and singing; and,
WHEREAS, Starting out as a fledgling guitarist working corner pubs in the Hill District, Mr. Benson sang, danced and played his ukulele and guitar for crowds in Pittsburgh as he began to play with a variety of other entertainers; and,
WHEREAS, Wes Montgomery, one of jazz's most creative players, came across Benson early on and helped him hone his skills, as George Benson apprenticed with Organist Brother Jack McDuff and his band; and,
WHEREAS, in 1964, George Benson released his debut album, The New Boss Guitar, which would solidify his ground as one of the hottest up-and-coming jazz artists that would later help to propel him to signing a contract with legendary Columbia talent scout John Hammond; and,
WHEREAS, George Benson has collaborated with legendary musical artists such as Freddy Gambrel, Miles Davis, Stanley Turrentine, Ron Carter, and Freddie Hubbard throughout his career, which has influenced and expanded his knowledge of the guitar and jazz music; and,
WHEREAS, in 1976, George Benson attained critical reception as he teamed up with Warner Bros. Records to produce Breezin', which was the first jazz record to attain platinum sales as it crossed the paths of traditional jazz, R&B, and pop; and,
WHEREAS, George Benson has won 10 Grammy Awards and other musical achievements throughout his career, and continues to push the limits of his craft and work today, as he brings his signature style and performances to audiences around the world.
Title
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that May 12, 2015, be declared "George Benson Day" in the City of Pittsburgh.