Asleep at the Wheel Members, Gear & Sound
American western swing band
Members
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About
Asleep at the Wheel is an American band renowned for their dedication to preserving and revitalizing Western swing, a genre that fuses elements of country, jazz, and blues. Formed in 1970 in Paw Paw, West Virginia, by Ray Benson (vocals, guitar), the band has seen numerous lineup changes with over 80 members throughout its history. Despite this, Benson has remained the constant driving force behind the group. Other notable early members include Lucky Oceans (steel guitar) and Leroy Preston (rhythm guitar), with Chris O'Connell adding a female vocal touch. Asleep at the Wheel's music is a lively celebration of traditional country and honky tonk, infused with a Texas country flair that pays homage to legends like Bob Wills.
How to Sound Like Asleep at the Wheel
The sound of Asleep at the Wheel is characterized by its rich, swinging rhythms and authentic, vintage tones. The band's music often features warm and resonant guitars, which are integral to their lively and rhythmic Western swing style. This is often achieved with guitars like the Collings SoCo 16 LC and Fender Custom Shop Telecaster, providing both clarity and depth. The pedal steel guitar adds a layer of melodic sophistication, while the Fender Twin Custom 15 amplifier delivers a clean, powerful sound that enhances the band's dynamic range. The rhythmic backbone is maintained by swinging drum beats and a bass groove that keeps the dance floors lively. Asleep at the Wheel's music thrives on its ability to blend traditional sounds with a contemporary vibrancy, making their performances both nostalgic and exhilarating.
Discography
Comin' Right At Ya
1973
Asleep At The Wheel
1974
Texas Gold
1975
Wheelin' And Dealin'
1976
The Wheel
1977
Collision Course
1978
Oklahoma City 1986 (Live)
1986
10
1987
Western Standard Time
1988
Keepin' Me Up Nights
1990
Tribute To The Music Of Bob Wills
1993
Back To The Future Now Live At Arizona Charlie'S Las Vegas
1997
Merry Texas Christmas Y' All
1997
Pasture Prime
1998
Ride With Bob
1999
23 Country Classics
1999
Hang up My Spurs
2002
Live at Billy Bob's Texas
2003
Live From Austin, TX
2006
Kings Of The Texas Swing - Live
2007
Reinventing the Wheel
2007
Asleep at the Wheel with The Fort Worth Symphony Orchestra
2007
Asleep At The Wheel - Live
2008
The Hits
2008
Asleep at the Wheel (Live)
2009
Willie and the Wheel
2009
House Of Blue Lights
2009
The Letter That Johnny Walker Read
2009
Country Legend Vol.3
2011
Havin' a Party - Live
2014
Still the King: Celebrating the Music of Bob Wills and His Texas Playboys
2015
Lone Star Christmas Night
2016
New Routes
2018
Riding High In Texas
2025
Get the Asleep at the Wheel Sound
Want to sound like Asleep at the Wheel? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
