George Benson Feted by Wyclef Jean & More at Jazz Foundation Fundraiser: ‘Just One Way to Give Back’
Patrice Rushen was also among the honorees, while guests included Herb Alpert and legendary songwriter Mike Stoller.
George Benson, a ten-time Grammy Award winner, received the prestigious Tommy LiPuma Award for Recording Excellence at the Jazz Foundation of America (JFA) fundraising event. The event took place at Vibrato Grill Jazz in Los Angeles on Sunday, November 1st, 2026. In addition to Benson, four other esteemed musicians were honored as Titans of Jazz: Patrice Rushen, Azar Lawrence, Henry "The Skipper" Franklin, and Roy McCurdy.
The event also recognized philanthropist Eden Alpert, who received the Quincy Jones Love & Peace Humanitarian Award. JFA executive director Joe Petrucelli praised Alpert's commitment to the foundation through her philanthropic work and leadership. Benson's award was presented by legendary songwriter Mike Stoller, who noted Benson's versatility as a jazz guitar player and his ability to perform other genres successfully.
During his acceptance speech, Benson thanked several individuals who had played significant roles in his career, including Herb Alpert, Tommy LiPuma, and producer Tommy LiPuma. The event was directed by Grammy-winning drummer Steve Jordan, who performed Benson's classics alongside a band of top musicians. The evening concluded with a live auction featuring items such as an autographed Ibanez guitar.
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