From American Songwriter · Erinn Callahan · · 1m 10s
Leroy Van Dyke's 97th Birthday
Leroy Van Dyke, the country singer born 97 years ago today in Missouri, scored a top 10 hit with a song about his auctioneer cousin.
In brief
Leroy Van Dyke, the country singer born 97 years ago today in Missouri, scored a top 10 hit with a song about his auctioneer cousin. Leroy Van Dyke, born October 4, 1929, in Mora, Missouri, scored a top 10 country hit with 'The Auctioneer' about his auctioneer cousin. Originally reported by American Songwriter.
Born in Missouri
Leroy Frank Van Dyke was born in Mora, Missouri on October 4, 1929.
Country Music Career
Van Dyke recorded over 500 songs including 1956's 'The Auctioneer' and 1961's country-pop hit 'Walk On By'.
Military Songwriting
While in the Korean War, Van Dyke wrote 'The Auctioneer' with Buddy Black, drawing from his real-life auctioneer cousin Ray Sims.
The Auctioneer Song
Van Dyke performed 'The Auctioneer' for troops and later at a Chicago radio talent show, landing a Dot Records contract.
Top 10 Hit
The song sold 2.5 million copies, reaching the U.S. country top 10 and pop top 20 in 1956.
Later Success
In 1961, Van Dyke released 'Walk On By' with Mercury Records, which held number one for 19 weeks, a record that stood for 51 years.
What to remember
Leroy Van Dyke, born October 4, 1929, in Mora, Missouri, scored a top 10 country hit with 'The Auctioneer' about his auctioneer cousin.
