Asleep At the Wheel

“scruffy but sincere traditionalists” – AllMusic

Asleep at the Wheel’s Ray Benson has traversed the globe for over fifty years. As an ambassador of Western swing music, he introduced its irresistible sound to generation after generation. More than 100 musicians have passed through the Wheel, but Benson remains the front man, the keeper of the vision. To that end, he’s amassed over 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.”

On their latest, 2021’s Half A Hundred Years, Asleep At The Wheel continue their contributions to the American music landscape. Here, three original members: Chris O’Connell, Leroy Preston, and Lucky Oceans, returned forty years after they left the band. These esteemed alumni lend their voices and musicianship to several tracks on the album.

The band represents an important cornerstone of American roots, though some of its members and audiences represent a new generation. However, that far-reaching appeal remains a testament to Benson’s initial vision.

“It took me 60 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.”

Recommended for fans of Bob Wills & the Texas Playboys, Kris Kristofferson, Lyle Lovett and Ernest Tubb.

LEARN MORE: https://www.asleepatthewheel.com/