Gospel artist Dan Peek, one of the co-founders of the soft-rock trio America, died in his sleep on July 24, 2011. The cause of death has not yet been determined, and news of his death were just released on Tuesday.
Along with Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell, Peek was part of the successful America trio from 1970 to 1977. America is best known for songs like "Ventura Highway," "Sister Golden Hair," "Tin Man," "A Horse with No Name" on which Peek collaborated, as well as songs Peek wrote including "Don't Cross The River," "Woman Tonight," "Today's the Day," and the song that became Peek's signature song, "Lonely People."
When Peek left the band in 1977, it was to pursue a career in contemporary Christian music. He signed with one of gospel music's pioneering labels, Lamb & Lion Records helmed by music legend Pat Boone. Notable Nashvillian Gary Chapman was also signed to Lamb & Lion, as were DeGarmo & Key, Dogwood, and various members of the Boone family.
Peek released his debut solo album, All Things Are Possible, in 1979. His former America band-mates Gerry Beckley and Dewey Bunnell contributed the background vocals on the song "Love Was Just Another Word." His next album, "Doer of the Word," was released in 1984 and featured Beckley on background vocals.
In 1986, Peek released Electro Voice which included his remake of "Lonely People," which Peek changed in small ways to reflect his Christian faith. The lines "And ride that highway in the sky" and "You never know until you try" were changed to "And give your heart to Jesus Christ."
Peek's music connections and Christian music ties brought him to Nashville more than once, including this appearance on "Nashville Now." Peek must have liked his Nashville connections because in 2002 he released the song "Nashville Cats" on his album Guitar Man.
After Peek's death on July 24, a video of Peek performing "Lonely People" was posted on his website.
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