Ray Benson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Ray Benson
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Ray Benson performing in April 2008
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| Background information | |
| Birth name | Ray Benson Seifert |
| Born | March 16, 1951 |
| Origin | Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, U.S. |
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| Years active | 1969–present |
| Labels | Arista Nashville, Bismeaux |
Ray Benson Seifert, born on March 16, 1951, is an American musician, actor, and voice actor. He is best known as the leader of the Western swing band called Asleep at the Wheel.
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Ray Benson's Life and Music
Ray Benson grew up in a Jewish family. In 1970, he started the band Asleep at the Wheel. He formed the group with his friends Lucky Oceans and Leroy Preston in West Virginia. Later, Gene Dobkin and Chris O'Connell joined them.
Starting Asleep at the Wheel
The band moved to Austin in 1973. This move happened after Willie Nelson suggested it. Since then, Asleep at the Wheel has released more than 20 albums. They have also won nine Grammy awards.
Beyond the Band: Solo Work and Producing
Ray Benson also released his own song, "Four Scores and Seven Beers Ago," in 1991. In 2003, he released his first solo album, Beyond Time.
Besides his own music, Ray Benson is a record producer. This means he helps other artists make their albums. He has worked with many musicians. These include Dale Watson, Suzy Bogguss, and Aaron Watson. He has also produced songs for famous artists like Willie Nelson and Brad Paisley.
Helping Musicians and the Community
Ray Benson cares about helping others. He helped start the Rhythm and Blues Foundation. This group raises money to support older R&B artists. He is also on the board of the SIMS Foundation. This foundation helps Austin musicians and their families get mental health support. He also helps with other groups that support music and health in Texas.
Hosting "Texas Music Scene"
Ray Benson used to host a TV show called Texas Music Scene. He wanted a show that focused on Texas bands. He worked with producer Tom Hoitsma to create this show. It highlights many talented bands from Texas.
"A Ride with Bob": A Musical Play
In 2005, Ray Benson and Asleep at the Wheel created A Ride with Bob. This is a musical play about the famous singer and songwriter Bob Wills. The play features 15 of Bob Wills' popular songs. It tells his story by showing his life alongside Ray Benson's present-day journey. The play still travels and performs across the country.
Awards and Achievements
Ray Benson has received many awards throughout his career. He won a Midsouth Regional Emmy Award for making A Ride with Bob. He also received the Darrel K. Royal Music Patron Award. In 2007, the Austin Chronicle recognized him for his singing, songwriting, and producing.
Ray Benson was inducted into the Austin Music Hall of Fame in 2002. He received a Lifetime Achievement Award in 1996. He has also won nine Grammy awards over four different decades. On April 12, 2025, Ray Benson was inducted into the West Virginia Music Hall of Fame.
"Willie and the Wheel": A Special Album
In February 2009, Asleep at the Wheel teamed up with Willie Nelson. They released an album called Willie and the Wheel. This album is a western swing collaboration. It was suggested by producer Jerry Wexler. Willie Nelson has always loved western swing music. He even toured with Asleep at the Wheel in 2007. Other musicians like Paul Shaffer and Vince Gill also played on this album.
Ray Benson in Movies and TV
Ray Benson has appeared in several movies and TV shows:
- Roadie (1980) ... Ray Benson
- Why Christmas Trees Aren't Perfect (1990) ... Sir Woodrow (voice)
- Never Leave Nevada (1990) ... Composer
- Wild Texas Wind (1991) ... Ray Benson
Ray Benson's Music Albums
Albums
| Title | Album details |
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| Beyond Time |
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| A Little Piece |
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| Songs from a Stolen Spring (Compilation) |
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Singles
| Year | Single | Peak positions |
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| 1991 | "Four Scores and Seven Beers Ago" | 67 |
See also
In Spanish: Ray Benson para niños
