Leroy Van Dyke is an American country music singer and guitarist known for his smooth, narrative style. Born in 1929, he gained prominence in the late 1950s with his major hit "The Auctioneer," which combined elements of country and spoken word. His other significant contribution is the 1961 single "Walk On By," which stayed on the charts for 42 weeks, setting a record for the country genre. This Missouri native's influence lies in his blend of storytelling and traditional country elements, leaving a lasting impact on the genre.