I just picked up a copy of George Benson's Art of Jazz Guitar DVD. Needless to say, it provides glimpses into his concepts. Not for one moment did I think his "licks" came out of the "air" but were based on his interpretations of great licks that he didn't invent.

What he does do is play non-standard guitar licks that will get your attention resulting in the perceived freshness of "his" ideas. It's necessary to note the inner drive of this very great interpreter of music that is global in nature. He has managed to present most off his style through the blues, which is a "cry of joy" as well as concerns connected with all negative experiences in one's life.

Listen, you can ripoff or steal the ideas but it won't come out heartfelt to one who knows the music unless you have lived the life Benson's notes reflect. He has experienced many great sorrows, including the murder of one of his sons and his father for starters. So, clones, can you match that? He's also known great wealth and worldly experiences.

I love to watch the essence of what he does in a heartfelt way and not be overly concerned about the licks, which are a part of his style. If we don't have our own experiences to draw from as jazz/creative musicians we will never get to a similar stage. By the way, the over one hour I spent with him in a hotel room reinforced his saying "play from the heart." Got to have a "heart" in the first place. I must say thanks for the blues that many/most technicians/clones will never be able to play convincingly.