“This Masquerade” is a jazz and R&B ballad written by Leon Russell. It was first recorded by Russell in 1972 but gained widespread recognition when American musician George Benson covered it for his 1976 album “Breezin’.”
In Benson’s version of “This Masquerade,” his smooth guitar playing and soulful vocals create a captivating atmosphere. The lyrics depict a sense of longing and introspection, exploring themes of love, deception, and emotional masks.
The song’s melancholic yet seductive tone, coupled with Benson’s impeccable guitar skills, contributed to its critical and commercial success.
Benson’s rendition of “This Masquerade” received widespread acclaim and won the Grammy Award for Record of the Year in 1977. The song’s timeless melody and Benson’s emotive performance have made it a jazz standard, celebrated for its elegant composition and heartfelt delivery. Over the years, “This Masquerade” has been covered by various artists, further solidifying its status as a classic in the world of jazz and R&B music.
