My favorite autobiography! ( )

I grew up listening to George Benson (and Luther Vandross), thanks to my mother, but had no idea that he's been in the music biz so long - or that he'd written his autobiography! George, and his ghostwriter Alan Goldsher, gives an entertaining account of his career - although he does talk about his childhood in Pittsburgh, and briefly mention two marriages, this is mostly about George's decades long career. Starting out as 'Little Georgie Benson' with his homemade guitar - eat your heart out, Brian May - George was a guitarist first and then a more radio-friendly vocalist ('I never liked the sound of my voice. It's got too much low end in it'). His first album, with the George Benson Quartet was in 1964! I had no idea. He has also worked with some equally famous names, from Miles Davis to Quincy Jones. The secret to his longevity is, 'Take the past to heart, then take it to the future'. George comes across as friendly and unfazed by fame, humbled by the many opportunities and collaborations that have made him a household name. A lovely man and great musician. ( )