Album Info
| Artist: | George Benson |
| Album: | Weekend In L.A. |
| Gatefold: | Yes |
| Released: | US, 1978 |
Tracklist:
| A1 | Weekend In L.A. | 7:21 |
| Written-By - George Benson | ||
| A2 | On Broadway | 10:03 |
| Written-By - Jerry Leiber, Mike Stoller, Barry Mann, Cynthia Weil | ||
| B1 | Down Here On The Ground | 4:57 |
| Written-By - Gale Garnett, Lalo Schifrin | ||
| B2 | California P.M. | 6:55 |
| Written-By - George Benson | ||
| B3 | The Greatest Love Of All | 5:32 |
| Written-By - Linda Creed, Michael Masser | ||
| C1 | It's All In The Game | 3:50 |
| Written-By - Carl Sigman, Charles Dawes | ||
| C2 | Windsong | 6:07 |
| Written-By - Neil Larson | ||
| C3 | Ode To A Kudu | 7:25 |
| Written-By - George Benson | ||
| D1 | Lady Blue | 3:25 |
| Written-By - Leon Russell | ||
| D2 | We All Remember Wes | 5:37 |
| Written-By - Stevie Wonder | ||
| D3 | We As Love | 6:51 |
| Written-By - Ronnie Foster |
Info About Buying Vinyl From Our Record Store
- We are a small independent record store located at 91 Plenty Rd, Preston in Melbourne's North (Australia)
- We buy and sell new and used vinyl records - if you have a collection you'd like to sell please click here.
- All pictures of the second hand/used vinyl records are actual pictures of the album in stock.
- We ship Australia wide for a flat rate of $10 for standard shipping or $15 for express post.
- Free Shipping for orders $150 and over.
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- We also ship internationally - prices vary depending on weight and location.
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- We almost always ship in stock vinyl next business day (excluding pre orders)
- We are strongly committed to customer satisfaction. If you experience any problems with your order contact us so we can rectify the situation. If the record arrives damaged or doesn't arrive we will cover the cost of replacing or returning the record.
- If you change your mind you have 30 days to return your record but you must cover the cost of returning it to the store.
- You can contact our Melbourne record shop at (03) 9939 3807 or at info@funkyduckvinyl.com
- Happy Listening!
Description
George Benson's "Weekend In L.A.,” released in 1978, is a vibrant and essential piece of jazz and R&B history that showcases the incredible talent of one of the genre's most beloved guitarists and vocalists. This live album captures the energy and excitement of Benson's performances, and it has since become a classic, earning a special place in the hearts of music lovers.
The album was recorded during a series of performances at the Hollywood Bowl, and it features a mix of Benson's original compositions and covers, all delivered with his signature smooth style. One of the standout tracks is undoubtedly "On Broadway," which has become synonymous with Benson's name. His guitar work is nothing short of mesmerizing, and his vocal delivery is both soulful and engaging. The way he blends jazz, R&B, and pop elements is a testament to his versatility as an artist.
"Weekend In L.A." was not just a commercial success; it also received critical acclaim. It was nominated for a Grammy Award for Best Jazz Vocal Performance, and it won the Grammy for Best Pop Vocal Performance by a Male. This recognition solidified Benson's status as a leading figure in the music industry. Major publications like Rolling Stone praised the album for its lively arrangements and Benson's exceptional musicianship, noting how he effortlessly transitions between guitar solos and vocal performances.
The album's production is noteworthy as well. Produced by the legendary Quincy Jones, the sound quality is impeccable, capturing the live atmosphere while ensuring that each instrument shines through. The band accompanying Benson includes some of the finest musicians of the time, which adds to the album's rich texture. The interplay between Benson's guitar and the brass section is particularly thrilling, creating a dynamic sound that keeps listeners engaged from start to finish.
One of the most interesting aspects of "Weekend In L.A." is how it reflects the cultural landscape of the late 1970s. The album came out during a time when jazz was evolving, and artists like Benson were bridging the gap between traditional jazz and the emerging sounds of funk and soul. This fusion not only appealed to jazz aficionados but also attracted a broader audience, helping to popularize jazz in mainstream music.
Personal anecdotes from Benson about the album reveal his passion for performing live. He has often mentioned how the energy of the crowd fuels his performances, and this is palpable throughout the album. You can almost feel the excitement of the audience as they respond to his every note. Benson's ability to connect with his listeners is one of the reasons why this album remains so beloved.
In terms of fun facts, it's worth noting that "Weekend In L.A." features a cover of "This Masquerade," which became one of Benson's signature songs. The track showcases his incredible guitar skills and has been covered by numerous artists since its release. The album also includes a medley that highlights Benson's ability to blend different musical styles seamlessly, further demonstrating his artistry.
Overall, "Weekend In L.A." is more than just an album; it's a celebration of George Benson's artistry and the vibrant music scene of the late 1970s. Its blend of jazz, R&B, and pop, combined with stellar musicianship and production, makes it a timeless classic. Whether you're a long-time fan of Benson or new to his music, this album is a must-listen. It captures the essence of live performance and the joy of music, making it a significant contribution to the world of jazz and beyond.