“scruffy but sincere traditionalists” – AllMusic
Asleep at the Wheel’s Ray Benson has been traversing the globe for over fifty years. He is an ambassador of Western swing music, introducing its irresistible sound to generation after generation. More than 100 musicians have passed through the Wheel, but Benson remains the front man and the keeper of the vision. in the process racking up more than thirty albums, ten Grammy awards and literally millions of miles on the road.
“I’m the reason it’s still together, but the reason it’s popular is because we’ve had the greatest singers and players,” Benson explains. “When someone joins the band, I say, ‘Learn everything that’s ever been done, then put your own stamp on it.’ I love to hear how they interpret what we do. I’m just a singer and a songwriter, and a pretty good guitar player, but my best talent is convincing people to jump on board and play this music.”
Asleep at the Wheel represents an important cornerstone of American roots music. They maintain this even though some of its members and audiences represent a new generation. That far-reaching appeal remains a testament to Benson’s initial vision.
“It took me sixty years, but I’m doing what I’m meant to do—singing and playing and writing better than I ever have. A bandleader is just someone who gathers people around them to play the best music they can play. I just try and make the best decisions possible and kick some ass every night onstage.”
Recommended for fans of Bob Wills & the Texas Playboys, Kris Kristofferson, Lyle Lovett and Ernest Tubb.
📸: Andrew Dalton
