Willie Leacox Passed Away At The Age Of 74

Willie Leacox, former drummer for rock band America, passed away yesterday at the age of 74. He died at his home in Stockton, California and the cause of death remains unknown.

The US published the following message on social media:

“We are heartbroken to learn of the death of our beloved brother and drummer of 41 years, Willie Leacox.” Willie is an important member of the America family, and we cherish the time we spent with him on this crazy adventure.”

The article also encourages anyone who wants to give a gift in memory of Willie to do so with the Leacox Family Music Education Scholarship.

Willie Leacox’s Life and Career

He was born into a family of musical drummers and was named William Robert Leacox. His uncle, father, brother, and three cousins all grew up playing drums. Willie loved to play the drums from an early age. When he was in elementary and middle school, he was a member of many bands.

In 1970, he earned a bachelor’s degree in music from Washburn University in Topeka, Kansas, where he majored in piano and played drums in many of the university’s bands. Leacox continues to perform in bands for extra income and he is a member of the band Jerms. Willie moved to Southern California after college to work in the music business and with local artists, in addition to performing some freestyle dance productions. Then he met David Joloff, an actor and singer, who advised him to come to America. Joloff’s apartment was near the home of Gerry Beckley, Dewey Bunnell and Dan Peek in the US, and he heard that they were planning an audition to find a new drummer.

Willie impressed the members of America at the audition and he was hired immediately. Vacation was the first LP he worked on and he has fond memories of working with Sir George Martin. He then played drums on all of Martin’s records, including the live LP recorded at the Greek Theater in Los Angeles. He also recommends Ludwig drums, Sabian cymbals, Vic Firth sticks, RhythmTech percussion, MAY EA internal microphone system, and GonBops congas.

Netizens pay respect to Willie Leacox.

I’m shocked😢Will, I’ll miss you.✌️

– axis (@axel_berlin_) February 2, 2022

Willie’s name is already well known in the music world as a talented and famous drummer. As news of his passing spread, Twitter was flooded with tributes. When America announced Leacox’s departure, it was flooded with praise from fans, including actor John Stamos, who said he admired his drumming abilities. Others call him a talented musician and a great drummer.