Asleep at the Wheel

Asleep at the Wheel

Asleep at the Wheel is an American country music band formed in Paw Paw, West Virginia in 1970 and later based in Austin, Texas. The band has won nine Grammy Awards and is often cited as a key group in the revival of Western swing music, a genre that blends traditional country, swing, jazz, and blues. Over its five-decade career, Asleep at the Wheel has released more than twenty-five albums and has charted more than 20 singles on the Billboard country charts.

History

The band was founded by Ray Benson and Lucky Oceans (born Reuben Gosfield). They were inspired by the music of Bob Wills, the "King of Western Swing," and formed Asleep at the Wheel with the vision of reviving this style of music. The group's lineup has changed many times over the years, with Benson remaining as the constant leader and frontman.

In the early 1970s, the band relocated to Austin, Texas, becoming part of the city's burgeoning music scene and contributing to the development of what would become known as alternative country or "Americana." Their first album, Comin' Right At Ya, was released in 1973, but it was their second album, Texas Gold, released in 1975, that garnered national attention, featuring hits like "The Letter That Johnny Walker Read."

Throughout the 1980s and 1990s, Asleep at the Wheel continued to produce albums and tour extensively, earning a reputation for their energetic live performances. They collaborated with many artists, including Willie Nelson, Lyle Lovett, and Dolly Parton, further cementing their status in the country music world.

Musical Style and Influence

Asleep at the Wheel's music is characterized by its blend of Western swing, traditional country, jazz, and blues. The band's sound is marked by the use of steel guitar, fiddle, piano, and horns, creating a rich, layered texture that pays homage to the past while remaining contemporary.

The band has been instrumental in keeping the tradition of Western swing alive, influencing a new generation of musicians interested in this genre. Their dedication to this style of music has also led to the preservation of the legacy of Bob Wills and his Texas Playboys, with Asleep at the Wheel often covering Wills' songs and incorporating them into their performances.

Awards and Recognition

Asleep at the Wheel has received numerous accolades for their contributions to music, including nine Grammy Awards. They have been recognized by the Country Music Association and the Academy of Country Music for their achievements in bringing Western swing to a wider audience.

Discography

The band's discography includes more than 25 studio albums, several live albums, and numerous compilations. Some of their most notable albums include Texas Gold, Wheelin' and Dealin', Asleep at the Wheel: Tribute to the Music of Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys, and Reinventing the Wheel.

Legacy

Asleep at the Wheel's enduring appeal and contributions to country music have made them a beloved institution. Their commitment to Western swing has not only preserved the genre but also introduced it to new audiences. The band's influence can be seen in the work of contemporary artists who draw inspiration from the rich musical traditions Asleep at the Wheel has championed.