Introducing…. Rene Benton
Tell me about how you got started?
Started playing guitar at about six or seven years old by default. I wanted to be a drummer but my little brother busted the bass drum of my toy drum set and a player was born. I started playing clubs very young ( sneaking around without my parents knowing.) A few talent shows after that which lead into touring opportunities as well as recording opportunities
How would you describe your sound, and how has it evolved since you first started?
My musical foundation is Funk and R & B. Very few people know that. My evolution to playing heavier music was an organic one. My mindset has always been to sing first so the biggest change over time is delivery. I have to be more conscious of how I get from point A to point B. hear people say I am progressive but, for me I am just applying principles from my first realm and applying them into the realm I am residing now. I. My sound is sophisticated and aggressive if I had to put it in a nutshell.
Who or what have been some of your biggest influences, musically and beyond?
My influences are George Benson, Roy Clark, Anthony Lockett , Charlie Singleton , Jesse Johnson and Tony MacAlpine. He is my only Rock /Metal influence. Outside of that as far as influence on the WHO said of things . I am a follower of Jesus Christ. I have done a lot of studying to get there. He (Jesus) is the who for me.
What does your songwriting process typically look like – is it a more individual or collaborative effort? Well, nothing is typical about. I am not prolific at all so, I have to be solid in what I present and , it must mean something or convey a story. Most song ideas come to me when I am doing a non musical activity. I have never been able to sit behind a piano or grab my guitar and music just flows. I could be grocery shopping and a melody will come to me. If it is real I can test it by sleeping on the idea and , coming back to it
Tell us about 2 Live in O-Ma-Haw ; Lyvv in Omaha; what are the core themes you were dealing with on the record?
It is a historical view of a city that no one really knows about. Including me!! I was able to interview people, grab data , and do a live concert all in one. But, It is all separated in a unique way. So the main theme or themes would be look back to look forward.
How do you approach experimenting with new sounds or ideas when creating music?
For many years I have been using samples in my music and one of my first touring gigs I played keys and guitar so , I will do something for instance sample two garbage can lids and make that part of a snare sound!!
What’s been one of the most memorable moments in your journey so far?
I performed right near the DMZ in South Korea so close I could hear the propaganda music
How do you prepare for live shows, and what do you aim to bring to your performances?
I try to log in at least 32 hours weekly leading up to a live show or series of them. The biggest thing to me is audience connection. I thrive on making sure of that !! I want them to feel connected to me and vice versa
How do you balance creative expression with staying connected to your audience?
Do not alienate people for the sake of making an artistic statement that is the key to staying connected
What do you hope listeners take away from your work?
That my musical perspective is unique and stretches their ears beyond the normal boundaries
What does the future hold for you – any plans or goals you’re excited about?
The release of this record is my focus right now . It is an exciting time for me right now and , my future is being in it for the long haul as far promoting this any every way possible
