Omaha in Sound and Story: An Interview with Rene Benton on “2 Live in O-Ma-Haw; Lyvv in Omaha”
In this captivating interview, we sit down with guitarist and Marine Corps veteran Rene Benton to discuss his latest live album, “2 Live in O-Ma-Haw; Lyvv in Omaha.” More than just a performance record, this project serves as a tribute to Omaha’s rich and layered identity. Benton delves into the inspiration behind blending his music with local stories, his creative approach shaped by both his faith and military experiences, and the unique “Documusical Xperience” that combines concert audio with historical insights. Benton’s journey and reflections make for a compelling conversation that highlights not only the artist’s technical mastery but also his deep connection to storytelling and community.
Q: “2 Live in O-Ma-Haw; Lyvv in Omaha” seems to be a personal tribute tothe city. Can you share what inspired you to blend music and storytelling to capture Omaha’s evolving identity?
A: Well, I had not spent a lot of time in Nebraska. I would go years without going home. Not on purpose but, touring or winter( I try to avoid Nebraska winters) So , time marches on . I came home for a quick visit in 2018. On my way to see my Dad who lives off a major Parkway in the city; I noticed as I was coming from the airport and noticed the area has really changed. On one side of the Parkway was a Church. On the other side there were a bunch of Buddhist statues.
Now, this was shocking not only because of the Church being across the street so to speak but, the neighborhood is what made it odd. As I recall , in that area of town everything was done by committee. So for the next few years I started arranging interviews with various people and I found out so much history that I had no idea existed. I figured If I don’t know –just imagine the people who still think Mutual of Omaha is filmed there!!
Q: As a Marine Corps veteran and an international musician, how have your experiences in the military shaped your approach to music and songwriting?
A: The most of a connection is the time, effort and diligence. Very few things are automatic in the creative realm. You have to work through the process.
Q: You’ve toured 42 states and over 70 countries, yet you’ve chosen to focus on Omaha for this live album. What makes Omaha such a significant place for you personally and creatively?
A: It is a place no one talks about. Undercover so to speak. And it is unique. Doing a live record in LA or NY; no one would notice or care. I like thinking
outside the box sometimes.
Q: Your song “Love is Pain” has deeply emotional and raw lyrics. What was the inspiration behind this track, and how does it reflect your own journey?
A: Long story..back in the 90’s I knew a guy who was going through a divorce. The more he talked the more lyrics came to life. The song was never meant for me I was trying to write a song for Danzig but, it never got to him. So that is why there are a lot of vocal ranges within the song.
Q: Your Christian faith is an important part of your identity. How does your faith influence your music, particularly on this new album?
A: My reason for doing mostly instrumental is because, it seems like the most God honoring genre be it Classical, Jazz , Easylistening , etc. It is neutral and innocuous and the listener can make up their emotional direction. Now I do vocals songs on this recording. Two to be exact.
Q: You’ve collaborated with a variety of legendary artists and producers for this album, from Aaron Sprinkle to Nino Laurenne. How did these collaborations come about, and what did each bring to the table creatively?
A: Had admired both of their works for years. On a whim I reached out to them and, they both are skilled but, have an imagination and, they do things that I never would thought of on a production level.
Q: The concept of a “Documusical Xperience” is intriguing. Can you explain how you merge history, music, and storytelling in this format, and what you hope listeners take away from it?
A: One part is just the concert audio, another part is the concert but, spliced in between with interviews from various people from the city talking about subjects ranging from the riots of 1968 ( which I knew nothing about) to a conversation with an exchange student from Myanmar
Q:As both a solo artist and a collaborator, you’ve had an impressive career spanning multiple genres. How do you balance technical mastery with emotional resonance in your music? What advice would you give aspiring musicians looking to find that balance?
A: Always put the song first. The average person could care less about a person;s technique. No guitarist who is a household name is remembered for their technique alone but , the song then the technique. All that being, sometimes you have to downplay fretboard wizardry for the sake of a song, That is my advice.
