In 1974, Asleep at the Wheel relocated from the Bay Area to Austin, Texas, encouraged by Willie Nelson, Doug Sahm, and a pivotal gig at the Armadillo World Headquarters. Frontman Ray Benson reflects on 55 years of AATW—50 rooted in Texas and its Western Swing heritage. “It brings us great pride to carry this torch,” says Benson. The band’s lineup has seen over 100 members, with new additions often inspiring new music. Their latest, Riding High In Texas, marks their 32nd album and first since 2021’s Half A Hundred Years.
The new record introduces vocalist/fiddler Ian Stewart, an Austin native who joined after a recommendation from original member Danny Levin. “It’s an honor to join their ranks,” says Stewart. The album showcases newcomers Michael Archer, Curtis Clogston, and Lyon Graulty, with appearances from past members and guests like Lyle Lovett and Billy Strings.
A tribute to the Lone Star State, the album features Texas standards and deeper cuts, from “All My Exes (Live in Texas)” to “Beaumont Rag.” “We weren’t trying to make Texas’ Greatest Hits,” says Benson, “just songs that fit this group best.” With Stewart and Benson sharing vocals, the band continues its journey: bold, soulful, and always Riding High in Texas.
Artist Website
The cabaret and through row D are reserved for Theater Members until one month before the show. If you are a Theater Member, select your tickets using the price code that matches your Membership level and enter your Member ID into the Membership box on the checkout page. To inquire about Membership, call our Box Office at 215-257-5808 or click here.
The new record introduces vocalist/fiddler Ian Stewart, an Austin native who joined after a recommendation from original member Danny Levin. “It’s an honor to join their ranks,” says Stewart. The album showcases newcomers Michael Archer, Curtis Clogston, and Lyon Graulty, with appearances from past members and guests like Lyle Lovett and Billy Strings.
A tribute to the Lone Star State, the album features Texas standards and deeper cuts, from “All My Exes (Live in Texas)” to “Beaumont Rag.” “We weren’t trying to make Texas’ Greatest Hits,” says Benson, “just songs that fit this group best.” With Stewart and Benson sharing vocals, the band continues its journey: bold, soulful, and always Riding High in Texas.
Artist Website
The cabaret and through row D are reserved for Theater Members until one month before the show. If you are a Theater Member, select your tickets using the price code that matches your Membership level and enter your Member ID into the Membership box on the checkout page. To inquire about Membership, call our Box Office at 215-257-5808 or click here.
