George Benson-Breezin' (1976)

"Breezin'" was George Benson's first album for Warner to reach number one on the pop, jazz, and rhythm and blues charts. Released in 1976, "Breezin'" was chronologically his fifteenth album, a release that brought George Benson true worldwide fame. Here, the guitarist cleverly fused his signature rhythm and blues style with funk, jazz fusion, and mainstream music. Certified multi-platinum and winner of the Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Performance, this is one of the most successful jazz albums of all time. The group that accompanied Benson on this album consisted of Ronnie Foster (keyboards), Harvey Mason (drums), Ralph McDonald (percussion), Jorge Dalto (piano), Phil Upchurch (rhythm guitar), and Claus Ogerman (orchestral arrangements). The entire album is a true instrumental delight, with a repertoire made up of catchy smooth jazz songs like the title track, or the seductive "The Masquerade", "Six To Four", "Affirmation", "Lady" and "So This Is Love".