Ever gone to a rodeo and wondered how the sound and music fit so perfectly with events that couldn’t have been choreographed? You probably have Benje Bendele to thank.
Benje, owner of Crazy Heart Sound & Lighting LLC, is the very best sound producer in professional rodeo. Proof of his status is in one simple statement – he is the official soundman for the Wrangler National Finals Rodeo and almost all of the largest events in the sport.
The key ingredient that makes Benje the best is an insider’s understanding of what takes place in the arena. Beginning at age 9, Benje began his competitive rodeo career in tie-down roping and team roping.He competed through his college years, and then got into announcing by accident – when an announcer was unable to make it to his appointed post, Benje jumped in. What happened after that has become ProRodeo history.
Benje served many years as an announcer and sound technician. As he developed his skills, Benje noticed there was an avenue of production that had primarily been untapped. “Rodeos have picked up this format,” he said. “They’ve left the traditional brass bands, and they realize that this is another aspect of the performances.”
Really, it’s just a testament to his passion and understanding of rodeo. It’s what makes Benje Bendele the very best.