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”. In 1976, “This Masquerade” was a top-ten pop and R&B hit for jazz guitarist/vocalist George Benson, who recorded it on his 1976 signature album Breezin’. It was his first single release. Benson’s rendition is the only charting version of the song in the U.S. It reached number 10 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number three on the Hot Soul Singles chart. On the Cash Box Top 100 it reached #12. “This Masquerade” was most successful in Canada, where it reached number 8 on the Pop Singles chart as well as the Adult Contemporary chart. In 1977, Benson’s version won a Grammy Award for Record of the Year, while it was nominated for Song of the Year and for Best Pop Vocal Performance, Male.