Leroy Drumm facts for kids

Leroy Maxey Drumm (September 26, 1936 – November 26, 2010) was an American songwriter. He wrote many popular songs in bluegrass and country music. Before becoming a songwriter, he served in the United States Navy. He was a sonar man on a destroyer ship called the USS Soley.

After leaving the Navy, Leroy worked as a welder in Detroit, Michigan. He became well-known for co-writing the song "Colleen Malone" with Pete Goble. The band Hot Rize recorded this song. It won the "Song of the Year" award in 1991 from the IBMA.

Leroy Drumm's Music Career

Leroy Drumm was born in Algonac, Michigan. He was a talented songwriter. Many people in the bluegrass world knew his name. He often worked behind the scenes.

Songs Recorded by Famous Artists

Many famous bluegrass and country artists recorded Leroy Drumm's songs. Here are some of them:

• Larry Sparks recorded songs like "Blue Virginia Blues" and "Tennessee 1949."
• Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver recorded "God Sent An Angel" and "Georgia Girl."
• Russell Moore and IIIrd Tyme Out recorded "Moundsville Pen" and "Phone Call Away."
• Charlie Waller and The Country Gentlemen recorded "Delta Queen" and "Joe's Last Train."
• The Bluegrass Cardinals recorded "Apple Trees And Honey Bees."
• The Spinney Brothers recorded "The Whole World Must Be Knowin'."

Leroy Drumm started writing songs in 1952. In 1961, he met Pete Goble. At first, Pete thought Leroy's lyrics were not very good. Leroy even gave away about 200 of his early songs.

However, in 1971, Pete Goble asked Leroy to write songs with him. Pete had become a successful songwriter himself. Together, Leroy and Pete wrote many popular songs. Their partnership helped Leroy's songs become well-known.

In 1974, The Country Gentlemen recorded four of Leroy's songs. These songs were on their album Remembrances & Forecasts. Two years later, in 1976, they used his song "Joe's Last Train" as the title for another album.

One of Leroy's last projects was a special song for a World War II veteran. He wrote a song about the Battle of the Bulge. This song told the story from the view of a combat medic. It was posted on the 94th Infantry Division's website. This was a tribute to American heroes.

Leroy Drumm's Passing

Leroy Drumm passed away at his home in Waynesboro, Tennessee. He died on November 26, 2010. He was 74 years old.

Leroy Drumm's Legacy

Leroy Drumm's music continues to be celebrated. In 2011, Bob Mitchell from Radio Bluegrass International hosted a special tribute. It was a one-hour show dedicated to Leroy Drumm and Pete Goble. The show featured bands from around the world.

In 2014, one of Leroy's songs received a special nomination. "The Day We Learn to Fly" was co-written with Stacy Richardson. The band Volume Five recorded it. This song was nominated for "Gospel Recorded Performance Of The Year" at the IBMA Awards.

Leroy wanted his music to live on. In 2008, he started a publishing company with his son, Roger. It was called "Sound of Drumm's Music." Roger continues to work on his father's songs. Leroy had over 700 unrecorded lyrics. Roger plans to complete these works. This will allow fans to enjoy Leroy's music for many years.

Awards and Recognition