Katana VentraIP

This Masquerade

"This Masquerade" is a song written by American singer and musician Leon Russell. It was originally recorded in 1972 by Russell for his album Carney and as a B-side for the album's hit single "Tight Rope". The song was then covered on Helen Reddy's 1972 album, I Am Woman. It was then recorded by American vocal duo, the Carpenters, for their 1973 album Now & Then and as the B-side of the Carpenters's single "Please Mr. Postman". Three years later, "This Masquerade" was recorded by American singer and guitarist George Benson, who released it on his 1976 album, Breezin'. Benson's version, featuring Jorge Dalto on piano, was released as a single and became the first big hit of his career.

"This Masquerade"

"The World is a Ghetto" (Netherlands)

"Lady"
"Six to Four" (UK)
"Breezin'" (Japan)

April 1976

January 1976

Capitol (Hollywood)

8:03 (Album full length)
3:17 (Single edit version)

Lead Vocal –

George Benson

Lead Guitar – George Benson

Conductor, Arranged By –

Claus Ogerman

Piano [Soloist] –

Jorge Dalto

Rhythm Guitar –

Phil Upchurch

Bass – Stanley Banks

Drums –

Harvey Mason

Percussion –

Ralph MacDonald

Producer –

Tommy LiPuma

's original version is part of the soundtrack for The Exorcist director William Friedkin's psychological thriller film Bug. The Bug Soundtrack was released on May 22, 2007. It also appeared in the movie The Pursuit of Happyness.

Leon Russell

' version was also performed on TV with Ella Fitzgerald; the medley in which it was sung was subsequently released on the compilation As Time Goes By.

The Carpenters

on YouTube

Music video of "This Masquerade" by George Benson (1976)

at Discogs

Page of "This Masquerade" by George Benson

at 45cat

Page of "This Masquerade" by George Benson