George Benson, mainly known as a jazz artist, last appeared on my radar in the mid 80’s when he had a string of mainstream pop hits, so I set off to his gig at the BIC wondering what sort of night I was in for.

Well I needn’t have worried as 25 years later he has lost none of the skills that have seen him win 10 Grammy awards and become a true master of his art in a career spanning 50 years.

Greeted with a huge cheer from an expectant audience George picked up his trusty Ibanez and gave them exactly what they came for. On the last night of his UK tour he seemed to be enjoying himself just as much as the Bournemouth crowd although he had earlier decided not to take a stroll along our miles of beautiful sandy beaches due to the equally trusty English weather!

Supported by an excellent five piece band George played, sang and chatted his way though a varied set including ‘Tequila’ (vocals supplied by the crowd of course), numbers from his latest album ‘Guitar Man’ and all of the hits.

An hour in and it was time for ‘Never Give Up On A Good Thing’ and what started off as a seated gig had turned into an all standing celebration of music with everyone on their feet and dancing wherever they could.

As I listened to an encore that included a foot-stomping version of ‘Broadway’ I promised myself I would not wait another 25 years before I see him again.