America drummer and A Horse With No Name musician Willie Leacox dies aged 74 as bandmates pay tribute: ‘We cherish the time we shared with him’

America drummer Willie Leacox has died, aged 74 (Picture: Getty)

America drummer Willie Leacox has died, aged 74.

The musician’s bandmates – most known for their iconic hit, A Horse With No Name – confirmed the news in a statement on their official social media pages, paying tribute to the late star.

‘We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our brother and beloved drummer of 41 years, Willie Leacox,’ it began. 

‘Willie was an integral part of the America family and we cherish the time that we shared with him through this crazy journey. 

‘We send our love to the Leacox family through this difficult time, and to all that knew Wil. Rest In Peace, Wil. We love you.’

They concluded: ‘Contributions in honor of Wil can be made to the Leacox Family Music Education Scholarship through the link provided.’

A full obituary on the site reads: ‘William Robert Leacox, the drummer for the band America for 41 years, passed away at his home in Stockton, California, this week at age 74. 

‘He will be missed by his brother, Jim Leacox, and sister, Janie Casteel, their spouses, his nieces and nephews, his California friends, plus his many friends and fans around the world. Memorial service details are pending. 

‘Wil and his family shared a mutual love and lifelong dedication to music. Wil would want to ensure that students receive the same inspiration and opportunities he received throughout his long and successful musical career.’

His cause of death has not been revealed.

Leacox came to fame as he joined America in 1973, replacing drummer David Atwood.

He worked with the group on several albums, including Silent Letter, in 1979, View From the Ground, released in 1982, and 2007 collection, Here and Now.

The musician was part of the group for 41 years, and played through several changing lineups, before announcing his departure in 2014.

His bandmates at the time confirmed his exit in an emotional Facebook post, thanking him for all he had done for the group.

‘After 41 years of dedicated hard work we want to acknowledge and celebrate the official retirement of our beloved drummer, Willie Leacox, on July 8, 2014,’ their statement read.

‘Willie is the last of the team we put together in the early 70’s to enhance the original acoustic trio, and the memories are boundless! He has been a uniquely superb drummer throughout those many years and his contributions to our recordings and live show speak for themselves. 

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‘Our rich musical history together includes having shared a lifetime of adventures and experiences in this crazy business of music which will never be forgotten.’

‘So Willie, with love and respect the entire “America” family wish you nothing but the best in the coming years,’ they added. 

‘Our hope is that you will enjoy your retirement and be able to spend more quality time with your family and friends away from the rigors of life on the road, and at the end of the day we’ll all be able to say we left our mark! You will be missed!’

Leacox is survived by siblings Jim and Janie.

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