Members:

 - Chris Knight (Lead Vocals, Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitar, Song writer)

 - Phil Behrens (Rhythm Guitar, Lead Guitar, Backing Vocals, Banjo, Mandolin, Keys, Song Writer)

Special Mention for the Other Band Members

- John Sorensen (Lead Guitar, Acoustic Guitar)

- Kenny Oath (Drums)

- Michael Haylock (Bass Guitar)

- Tony Wagner (Pedal Steel, Piano and Keys) 

Genre: Australian Themed Country Rock 

Benson Manor is more than just a country band; it’s a story of brotherhood, resilience, and a passion for music that refuses to fade. Hailing from Queensland, Australia, this duo—Chris Knight and Phil Behrens—have been making music together for over two decades, blending heartfelt storytelling with high-energy performances.

Chris and Phil first crossed paths in Hervey Bay, where Chris was a fan of Phil’s former band, Sodium. Their musical collaboration began unexpectedly in 2009 when Phil, needing a last-minute duo partner, asked Chris to join him for a gig. That one-off performance became a partnership that is still thriving today.

Born in Terang, Victoria, Chris moved to Gayndah, QLD, as a teenager before settling in Brisbane. He is the band’s lead singer, songwriter, and acoustic/electric guitarist. Phil was born in Dalby, to Hervey Bay in 1994 and is a multi-instrumentalist who plays guitar, piano, bass, drums, and harmonica. He has been self-taught for over 35 years, mastering his craft through a deep love for music.

Fast forward to 2011, Chris was going through a difficult time and had begun writing country songs. After playing one of his originals, This Ain’t Your Country Song, to Phil, the direction of their music changed. Phil saw the potential to create original music together. While renovating his house during the divorce, Chris’ co-worker jokingly referred to his home as “the old Benson Manor.” after the previous long-time owners. Chris pitched it to Phil as the perfect band name and it stuck! Tragically, the friend who inspired the name, Wayne Kuskie, passed away in February 2025, leaving behind a lasting connection to the band’s story.

Over the years, Chris has travelled to the USA many times, drawing inspiration from country greats like Brad Paisley, Brooks & Dunn, Alan Jackson, Dierks Bentley, Keith Urban, Billy Currington, and his favourite, Jason Aldean. Phil’s influences span genres, from his mother’s old-school Australian country (Slim Dusty, Chad Morgan) to Johnny Cash, Chet Atkins, Bob Dylan, and rock legends like The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, and Pink Floyd. A rich combination of aspirations that the band embrace in their releases. They have been described as a blend of country, rock, and a touch of blues. If comparisons must be made, their music echoes the styles of the Eli Young Band, Blackberry Smoke, and Jason Aldean.

In 2013, Benson Manor began recording their debut album, but life had other plans. The band split in 2015, leaving the project incomplete. In 2022, as Chris’ mother battled leukemia, she urged him to follow his passion and finish the album. Two days before her passing, he made that promise to her. Fate intervened when Phil, after a few too many margaritas, called Chris and insisted they get the band back together. Inspired by this, they reignited their songwriting and began travelling between Brisbane and Hervey Bay to make it happen.

Benson Manor thrives on live performances, whether playing to an intimate crowd of ten or a festival audience of thousands. Their dynamic stage presence is a mix of Phil’s high-energy guitar work and Chris’ commanding vocals, creating a captivating experience for their fans.

Some of their career highlights include Supporting legendary guitarist Phil Emmanuel, Headlining the Hervey Bay Country Music Festival, and being named Finalists in the Wide Bay Battle of the Bands—the only country act and the only band performing originals.

When not making music, Chris can be found riding the waves—an unexpected hobby for a country boy—or restoring classic EH Holden station wagons. Meanwhile, Phil has traded in his wild youth of freestyle rock climbing for peaceful fishing trips and late-night campfire jam sessions. His adventurous spirit is still very much alive, but these days, it’s channelled into writing music with Chris.

Benson Manor is back and stronger than ever, with a renewed focus on finishing their long-awaited album and bringing their music to new audiences. Their journey is one of resilience, brotherhood, and an unbreakable bond with their music. Whether in a packed venue or a backyard jam session, one thing is certain—Benson Manor is here to make music that matters. Follow Benson Manor’s journey and stay tuned for new music coming soon.

Achievements So Far:

- Featured on Local Radio Station

- Finals of a battle of the bands (only band to play country original songs)

- Headlined local Country Music Festival 

- Played charity gigs for free, supporting some great local charities

Social Media

- Website: www.bensonmanor.com

- Facebook: @bensonmanor

- Instagram: @benson_manor