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From early influences that range from Kansas to Cameo, to collaborations with legends like Chubby Checker and Sleepy Brown, Rene Benton has carved out a name for himself in the music world. With over 70 countries toured and an eclectic mix of genres woven into his sound, Benton continues to push the envelope. In this interview, the rock guitarist discusses his diverse musical influences, his time in the Marine Corps, and how he’s kept his artistry distinct—never blending in, but always standing out.
Q: Rene, you’ve had an incredible journey in music, from your early influences like Kansas and Cameo to working with icons like Chubby Checker and Steve Reed. How did these diverse influences shape your unique sound?
A: I always wanted to be a working musician and, anything that came after that I was thankful for. Diversity sets guitar players apart. As a kid I enjoyed listening to different styles of music but, very rarely attempted to play a lot of it. So, subliminally all those things floating around in my head helped me to have somewhat of my own guitar voice
Q: After serving in the Marine Corps, you dedicated yourself to music. How did your time in the military impact your approach to your career and your music?
A: Ok, little known fact. I did not even own a guitar for three years while I was in the Marines. There definately is no guitar playing in boot camp so, there is three months of not having a guitar in my hands. I got out of boot camp hoping to come back to my guitar that I let a ” friend ” hold for me. To this day I do not know what happened my guitar but, we are still the best of friends. All that being said ; there will obstacles but , keep pushing and playing and, don’t get discouraged when you have to play catch up!! I certainly did!!
Q: Touring in over 70 countries is impressive. What have been some of the most memorable performances or experiences from your global tours?
A: Well one was performing near the DMZ right at the North Korean border. The propaganda music is played over the loudest speakers you will ever hear so , that was a battle of the bands of a different type!!
Q: Your collaborations range from Grammy-winning artists like Sleepy Brown to jazz fusion legends like The Rippingtons. How do you adapt your guitar style to suit such a wide variety of genres and artists?
A: Well, play as little as possible until they ask you to play more. Remember it is not about you until your name is the marquee. Be humble and , listen to what an artist says. And be patient.
Q: Your album “Xpressions” has been described as a fusion between Stevie Wonder and Tony MacAlpine. Can you tell us about the creative process behind that project and how you brought together such diverse sounds?
A: I never wanted to sing on my own music. I was forced to. I grew up playing R&B, Funk, Fusion/Commercial Jazz and a bit of gospel. With guitar I could emulate certain styles to a degree but, my voice when I emulated people it was a bit more narrow. I do not think I sound anything like Stevie but, peoples ears registered there. Tony is my only Rock/Metal guitar influence so a bit of him was going slip in there no matter what . He means a lot to my musical journey.
Q: Working as a music supervisor on a film that was nominated for an NAACP award in 2024 is an exciting accomplishment. What was that experience like, and how does it compare to your work as a musician?
A: Well, it is hard to compare because , curating is difficult. Gathering artist who fit a theme for a scene is challenging. Whereas putting a record together or playing you are just flowing with things. So , I would say one is more administrative than the other.
Q: Can you tell us more about your experience recording with Andy Palacio and how it felt to be part of such an influential artist’s legacy?
A: I was touring Belize with someone and happened upon a shop. Punta is style of music connected to Belize. I picked up CD. Got in touch with the record company told them if they needed a guitar player for anything. tat Shortly after that ( They sent me files on CD) to record to and, Andy was one of the artist . I knew he sounded different from the other artist on the label. I did not know his impact until years later.
Q: Your latest project “2 Live in O-Ma-Haw” was recorded live in Omaha after spending years away from the city. How does it feel to return to your roots, and what was it like reuniting with longtime collaborators for this recording?
A: Emotional. Very emotional and nervous. The bass player ( Troy Johnson) and, the drummer ( Todd Roberson) helped me to get into the Rock Metal world along with Tim Pratt, Mike Pardee and Chris Hatfield. Those were the first guys to record with me in that genre. It changed my life and for that I am forever grateful
Q: You’re known for working with producers like Nino Laurenne and Aaron Sprinkle. How do you choose your collaborators, and what do you look for in a producer to help bring your vision to life?
A: I had been wanting to work with both of those guys for a long time. I admired their past works and just wanted to see what they could do with me. I want their imagination as well as their skill set that is my primary focus.
Q: What can we expect from your upcoming projects, including your work with Chris Moon in EDM? How do you approach blending different musical genres and staying innovative in your career?
A: Chris is an interesting guy!! He will probably never use any of what we recorded!! Well maybe a snippet!! Ha! I try not limit myself. I stay true to who and what I am musically. That is the key. I do not look at as blending just an extension of an idea . I want whatever I do to stand out , not blend. Blending is something that you want to happen when you are mixing things be it paint or food. I want anything I do to have the affect of salt in ice cream . I want people to know it’s me!! Ha!!
For more information, please visit http://www.renebenton.net
