Given that George Benson’s influence is boundless, it’s no surprise that Cory Wong and Andy Timmons treasure his legacy, which they’re preparing to celebrate and share at Benson’s upcoming Breezin’ with the Stars guitar camp. Through records like White Rabbit (1972), Bad Benson (1974), and Breezin' (1976), the veteran jazz fusion guitarist traversed genres, opening countless musical minds along the way. “The thing about George is that if he were just a pop guitar player, he would be a legend,” Wong tells Guitar World .
“This cat is arguably one of the greatest players to ever exist. If you look at some of these legendary songs, there’s just an incredible depth of artistry.” And Timmons – who at 61, is a generation ahead of Wong, 39 – agrees.
“I’ll never be able to do exactly what George does. Some people study the technique, but it’s more about absorbing the feel and ideas and feeling the swing.” Breezin’ with the Stars is the first event of its kind for Benson.
Alongside Wong and Timmons, the guest list features Patti Austin, Norman Brown, Al Di Meola, Tommy Emmanuel, Stanley Jordan, Steve Lukather, Lee Ritenour, and others. It takes place at the Wigwam Resort in Phoenix, Arizona, January 3 to 6. “When George announced he was doing a camp, I said, ‘Whoa, I gotta be there!’” Wong says.
“I was like, ‘I wanna hang out with George and learn from him.’ So I’ll be instructing and giving a masterclass. I’m excited to absorb everyt.