Drew Gregory trail blazes his way to the top

Miriam Ostermann
Times Associate Editor

 

From the birth of his son, to the anticipated release of his new album, Standard’s country music artist Drew Gregory’s year became even more exceptional when he took home the Male Artist of the Year award at the Association of Country Music in Alberta awards.
Gregory, who picked up a guitar in high school and never put it down, was on his way back from the bathroom when his name was called at the ceremony on Jan. 31.
“I think the cameras went to my table and I wasn’t even sitting there and I ran up the side,” said Gregory. “I was pretty excited to hear my name. I think I was in a bit of shock and hardly remembered my speech until my wife taped it and showed it to me later.”
The rising star, who resides in Strathmore, still works on the family farm in Standard and spends his weekends focused on music. Growing up, Gregory remembered his family’s love for music; his father always had vinyl records spinning, and his mother’s radio could be heard in the background. The 31-year-old didn’t start playing an instrument until high school at which time he began performing locally, despite never having received proper lessons. While his musical career didn’t take off until years later when he moved to Nashville, he never forgot his roots, reflecting on his upbringing in his songs.
“Anyone who’s listened to my song would definitely know what I’m talking about as I sing about how I grew up,” he said.
“I never took lessons or needed to be forced to play. It was something I generally loved. I love making the music and song writing and being in the studio, but the number one thing for me is the performing, have people listen, get into the audience, and create moments. That’s the big thing for me.”
Gregory has performed at numerous events in Strathmore, including the Strathmore Stampede, at the Station, parties, and weddings. However, he said he had never expected to win such a prestigious award. His manager Angie Morris also walked away with an award that night, and the band Dominos, who is the other band signed with Morris, also took home awards. Gregory still remains an active member of the local agricultural society, hockey, and baseball team.
Drew Gregory’s newest album, I Was There, will be released in early spring and focuses mainly on growing up in a small town and in Standard.
For more information on Drew Gregory visit www.drewgregorymusic.com.