Haitian-born musician Wyclef Jean joined an ensemble of performers in honouring legendary American guitarist and singer George Benson during the Jazz Foundation of America’s annual fundraising event in Los Angeles on Sunday, November 1.
Benson received the organisation’s 2026 Tommy LiPuma Award for Recording Excellence in recognition of his seven-decade career and contributions to jazz, R&B, soul and popular music.
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The celebration, held at Vibrato Grill Jazz, also recognised philanthropist and businesswoman Eden Alpert, who received the Quincy Jones Love and Peace Humanitarian Award for her support of musicians and the live music community.
Jean, the three-time Grammy Award-winning co-founder of the Fugees, was among the performers at the event, which also featured singer Aloe Blacc, guitarist Isaiah Sharkey, jazz vocalist Carmen Lundy and the Titans of Jazz. Rolling Stones drummer Steve Jordan served as artistic director.
Benson, a 10-time Grammy Award winner and National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) Jazz Master, was recognised for a career spanning more than 70 years. His musical catalogue includes celebrated recordings such as “Breezin’,” “Give Me the Night” and “On Broadway.”
The event brought together musicians and supporters to celebrate Benson’s influence while raising funds for the Jazz Foundation of America’s programmes. The organisation provides housing assistance, healthcare support, disaster relief and employment opportunities for jazz, blues, roots and R&B musicians facing financial and personal difficulties.
According to the foundation, its programmes assist more than 2,000 musicians nationwide, helping established and emerging performers maintain their livelihoods and continue contributing to the music industry.
The annual benefit combined musical performances, tributes and fundraising activities in support of the organisation’s work.
