In Flight

Originally released in 1977, in Flight was produced by Tommy Lipuma and features songs that would eventually make their way into Benson's permanent repertoire; highlights include a memorable rendition of "Nature Boy," Donny Hathaway's "Valdez in the Country" and the LP's centerpiece, "The World Is a Ghetto." Musical support was provided by longtime collaborator Phil Upchurch, as well as Harvey Mason and Ralph MacDonald; Claus Ogerman arranged and conducted the orchestra.