Benito Gonzalez
Rhythmic Visionary
A thrilling force in modern jazz, Benito González fuses Afro-Latin energy and classic jazz tradition with power, passion, and originality.
About
Born in Maracaibo, Venezuela, Benito González hails from a family steeped in folk music and moved to New York to immerse himself in the jazz tradition. He gained widespread recognition after winning the 2005 Great American Jazz Piano Competition, spent seven years in Kenny Garrett’s quartet, and in 2019 became pianist/musical director for Pharoah Sanders. He is a two-time Grammy-nominated artist with several acclaimed albums as a leader.
Music Style
González’s music emphasizes powerful rhythm sections and Afro-Latin groove, blending traditional jazz harmonies with folk and spiritual elements. His piano style is both fiery and spiritual, drawing inspiration from McCoy Tyner, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, and Keith Jarrett.
Background
- Hometown
- Maracaibo, Zulia, Venezuela
- Instruments
- piano
- Active
- 1990s-present
Similar Artists
If you like McCoy Tyner, Herbie Hancock — you'll love Benito González