Rene Benton is no ordinary guitarist. A Marine Corps veteran turned international touring musician, Benton has traveled across 42 states and over 70 countries, both as a backing musician and as a solo artist. With a career that spans decades, Benton has shared stages with an eclectic mix of artists—from rock legend Chubby Checker’s band to Swedish superstar Gigi Hamilton. His story is one of determination, evolution, and an unshakable passion for music.
From Funk Roots to Rock Mastery: A Unique Musical Journey
Benton’s musical journey began in the realm of Funk, R&B, and Soul music. Early in his career, he noticed a gap—a lack of guitar-driven expression in these genres. This observation led him organically into the Rock and Metal scene, where guitar playing was front and center. What sets Benton apart from many rock and metal guitarists is his eclectic set of influences. While his contemporaries often draw inspiration from classic rock icons, Benton credits Jazz, Country, and Funk guitarists as his primary influences, with Tony MacAlpine standing out as his singular Rock/Metal influence. “I’m inspired by many, influenced by few,” he says, a statement that perfectly reflects his distinctive style and artistic independence.
Career Highlights: From the DMZ to Global Stages
Throughout his career, Benton has experienced countless milestones, but one performance stands out as particularly memorable: playing near the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) at the North Korea-South Korea border. The mission was unique—to counter North Korean propaganda music through the universal language of sound. “I don’t know if we drowned it out,” Benton reflects, “but it’s something I’ll never forget.” Moments like these highlight the profound reach of Benton’s career, where music transcends entertainment and becomes a force for unity and resilience.
Beyond his live performances, Benton has earned accolades through features in prestigious music and guitar magazines, such as Top Guitar (Poland), Dark City (Russia), Guitar Club (Italy), and Total Guitar (UK). His collaborations with both emerging and legendary artists further solidify his reputation as a versatile and sought-after musician.
Challenges and Rewards: Thriving in a Changing Industry
For Benton, one of the biggest challenges has been staying in tune with the ever-changing music industry. The digital age has transformed how artists create, promote, and share their music, requiring constant adaptation. Yet, it is this resilience that fuels his greatest reward: proving wrong those who doubted his staying power. “When others didn’t think you would survive, you came back striving,” he says, a testament to his grit and perseverance.
‘2 Live in O-Ma-Haw; Lyvv in Omaha’: A New Chapter
Benton’s latest project, 2 Live in O-Ma-Haw; Lyvv in Omaha, marks a significant milestone in his career. Released on November 30, 2024, the album is Benton’s third full-length offering and his first to receive a dedicated promotional push in the United States. The album is more than just a collection of songs; it is a “Documusical Xperience,” blending music, storytelling, and Omaha’s rich cultural history.
Teaming up with longtime collaborators Troy Johnson (bass), Todd Roberson (drums), and Nidhal Keddah (keyboards), Benton delivers an immersive aural journey. Production credits include notable names like Tim Zick, Aaron Sprinkle, Nino Laurenne, and mastering by Matthew Gray. This ambitious project captures Omaha’s evolving identity, offering listeners a chance to reflect on its stories and people through Benton’s masterful compositions.
“Omaha is a city that’s often overlooked,” Benton explains. “I wanted to bring everything full circle through music—to explore the changes, the history, and the stories of the people that make it what it is today.”
Overcoming Challenges: An Inspirational Lesson
Benton’s journey has not been without obstacles. As a young guitarist with unusually large hands, he often faced skepticism. “A lot of older guys would say, ‘Man, your hands are too big for guitar—get a bass!’” Yet Benton refused to listen. He pursued his passion, proving that determination and self-belief can overcome any limitation. His story serves as an inspiration for anyone striving to break barriers and pursue their dreams against the odds.
Faith, Mission, and Music
At the heart of Benton’s work is his faith. A devout follower of Christ, Benton approaches his music and career with a sense of purpose. “No one lights a candle and hides it under a table,” he says. His mission is clear: to make his voice heard, to inspire thought, and to encourage others to see the bigger picture. Fans attending a Rene Benton concert can expect more than just a performance. Benton describes his live shows as a “classy yet aggressive” experience—a fusion of energy, artistry, and introspection.
Looking Ahead
As Rene Benton prepares to release 2 Live in O-Ma-Haw; Lyvv in Omaha, he continues to embody the spirit of a true artist—one who evolves, inspires, and challenges the status quo. Whether performing on international stages, sharing stories through his music, or inspiring audiences with his faith, Benton remains a powerful and authentic voice in the world of music.
For more updates and concert details, visit renebenton.net.
