Asleep At The Wheel

Asleep at the Wheel is a prominent band known for its enduring influence in western swing and country music. Founded by vocalist and guitarist Ray Benson, the group established itself in the progressive country scene by blending western swing, jazz, boogie-woogie, and American roots music. Early recognition from Van Morrison helped generate industry interest, leading to the release of their debut album, "Comin' Right at Ya'," followed by a self-titled second record featuring their first charting single, a cover of "Choo Choo Ch'Boogie." The album "Texas Gold" produced their first Top 10 country hit, "The Letter That Johnny Walker Read," and secured a performance on the inaugural broadcast of PBS's "Austin City Limits," where the band has since made numerous appearances.

Asleep at the Wheel has built a substantial catalog and received significant recognition in the country and Americana music industries. The band has won nine Grammy Awards, released more than 20 studio albums, and charted over 21 singles on the Billboard country charts. Their Grammy Awards span multiple categories, beginning with the country instrumental "One O'Clock Jump" and continuing through albums such as "10" and "Western Standard Time." The Country Music Association named the group Touring Band of the Year, and the Americana Music Association presented them with a Lifetime Achievement Award. The band is known for its extensive touring history and for featuring more than 100 musicians, some of whom have gone on to perform with artists including Bob Dylan, George Strait, and Lyle Lovett.

A significant aspect of Asleep at the Wheel's legacy is its dedication to preserving the music of western swing pioneer Bob Wills. The band has produced three tribute albums—"A Tribute to the Music of Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys," "Ride with Bob," and "Still the King: Celebrating the Music of Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys"—which have earned multiple Grammy Awards and featured collaborations with Willie Nelson, George Strait, Dolly Parton, Merle Haggard, Garth Brooks, the Avett Brothers, and Old Crow Medicine Show. The group also adapted its Bob Wills tribute into a stage musical, further supporting the preservation and accessibility of western swing.

Ray Benson has remained the central figure in Asleep at the Wheel, guiding the band through lineup changes and evolving musical trends. In addition to leading the band, Benson has produced for artists such as Willie Nelson, Aaron Neville, and Bruce Hornsby. The album "Half A Hundred Years" reunited original members Chris O'Connell, Leroy Preston, and Lucky Oceans, and included guest appearances by Emmylou Harris, Lee Ann Womack, George Strait, Lyle Lovett, and Willie Nelson. With a career spanning more than five decades, Asleep at the Wheel continues to introduce western swing to new audiences through national tours and recordings.