More about ASLEEP AT THE WHEEL

Founded in 1970, Asleep at the Wheel has been part of the American roots music landscape for more than 50 years. Although the band got its start on a farm in Paw Paw, West Virginia, Asleep at the Wheel became a cornerstone of the Austin, Texas scene upon its arrival in 1973. Inspired by Western swing and honky-tonk country, the band has won 10 Grammy Awards. In the fall, a career retrospective recorded with the current lineup—and a few special guests—will carry the band back onto the road, where they’ve remained a staple for five decades.

Asleep at the Wheel’s lineup is ever changing. Since 1970 the band has had over 100 members come through. In the past, when a new member or two has joined a new album has emerged. In 2026 that still remains true. “We had some more line up changes after the pandemic and our 50th anniversary tour,” says Ray Benson, the band’s leader and only original member. “We had some folks who had been with us for a while move on. But, like always, we kept playing live shows and searching for the next members to identify themselves—here we are!”