You’ve heard me talk about great singers that came out of the Hill District of Pittsburgh, the likes of Tommy Hunt and Chuck Jackson and some even became Jazz Royalty like George Benson. George was not only a legendary guitarist/musician but an established vocalist that began singing at the early age of nine. George Benson was part of a DooWop group from Pittsburgh called the Altairs, in fact he was not only their guitarist but lead singer. Their first release for the Amy Record Label was “If You Love Me” and “Groovie Time” both written by George and three of his fellow Altairs, Nate Benson, Richard Harris and Billy Henderson. In 1960, George left the band and started working with the Four Counts while Billy Herndon, Nate Benson and Richard Harris became “D’s Gents” backing the great Diana Washington. After that George Benson joined the Jack McDuff trio as a guitarist which led to his successful solo career. This Saturday, March 22 is George Bensons birthday … I will by honoring his music and career while celebrating his birthday on my weekly internet radio show, “Johnny Angel’s Heavenly Soul Show” on jukinoldies.com. One particular memory I have was singing with Eddie Hollman at Heinz Hall, a show with the Delfonics and Jerry Butler, and in the front row was George Benson. After the show George came backstage and complimented us on our soulful harmonies… there I was in the presence of music royalty … Jerry Butler, the Delfonics, Eddie Holman and George Benson. George Benson was one of those performers that made an impact on several types of music Doowop, Soul, Rhythm n’ Blues, Jazz and Pop. George Benson has received multiple Grammy Awards, Best Instrumental performance (1977), Best Pop Instrumental (1977), Record of the year (1977), Best Male R&B Vocal Performance (1979), Best Jazz Vocal Performance Male (1981), Best R&B Instrumental Performance (1981), Best Traditional R&B Performance (2007) and best Pop Instrumental Performance (2007) and he was honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame! From the Hill to Jazz Royalty … George Benson!