Grant Young, American drummer

Grant Young, an influential figure in alternative rock, is best known for his pivotal role as the drummer for the acclaimed band Soul Asylum. Born on January 5, 1964, Young's rhythmic contributions were integral to the group's sound during a significant period of their career, from 1984 to 1995. His tenure encompassed the band's formative years on independent labels through to their mainstream breakthrough.

Grant Young's Era with Soul Asylum

Young joined Soul Asylum in 1984, stepping in to replace original drummer Pat Morley shortly after the release of the band's debut album, Say What You Will, Clarence...Karl Sold the Truck. This initial album, released on the legendary independent label SST Records, hinted at the eclectic, energetic alternative rock sound that would become Soul Asylum's hallmark. Young quickly became a foundational element of the band's dynamic live performances and studio recordings, contributing to their distinctive sound as they navigated the burgeoning alternative music scene.

Contributions to "Grave Dancers Union" and Departure

Grant Young's final recorded contributions to a Soul Asylum studio album were featured on their monumental 1992 release, Grave Dancers Union. This album marked a pivotal moment for the band, catapulting them from cult status to global recognition. It achieved multi-platinum sales and earned multiple Grammy Award nominations, including a win for "Runaway Train" as Best Rock Song. While Young significantly contributed to the album, playing on five or six tracks, his involvement concluded during the recording sessions.

He was subsequently replaced by Sterling Campbell, a highly respected drummer who would continue with the band for a period before forging an even more prominent career. Campbell notably recorded the entirety of "Runaway Train," the band's biggest hit, though Young had performed the song live with Soul Asylum in concert settings prior to its recording.

The Cultural Resonance of "Runaway Train"

While Grant Young did not record on "Runaway Train," its immense success profoundly impacted Soul Asylum's legacy and remains a defining moment in 90s alternative rock. The song's poignant lyrics and accompanying music video, which famously featured images and names of missing children, garnered widespread attention and critical acclaim. "Runaway Train" became a cultural phenomenon, not only topping charts but also playing a crucial role in raising awareness for missing persons, earning a Grammy Award for Best Rock Song in 1994.

Sterling Campbell's Post-Soul Asylum Legacy

Sterling Campbell, who took over drumming duties from Grant Young during the Grave Dancers Union sessions, also eventually departed from Soul Asylum. Campbell went on to establish a remarkably prolific career, primarily known for his long-standing and significant association with legendary artist David Bowie, performing as a core member of Bowie's touring and recording bands for over a decade. His extensive resume also includes collaborations with other iconic musicians such as Duran Duran, The B-52's, Cyndi Lauper, and Soul Coughing, cementing his reputation as a versatile and in-demand drummer.

Grant Young's Life Beyond the Band

Following his departure from the demanding world of a touring rock band, Grant Young embarked on a distinctly different chapter. Born in Iowa City, Iowa, Young, along with his then-wife Catherine, transitioned to entrepreneurship in a unique natural setting.

Entrepreneurial Ventures in the Boundary Waters

The couple owned and operated a resort located in the pristine Boundary Waters region near Ely, Minnesota. This area, famous for the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness (BWCAW), is a vast, protected wilderness of lakes and forests stretching along the Canada–US border, offering unparalleled opportunities for canoeing, fishing, and wilderness experiences. This venture showcased a significant pivot from the high-energy music industry to the tranquility and demands of wilderness hospitality.

After a period of operating the resort, they eventually sold the business. Their entrepreneurial spirit continued in Ely, where they subsequently operated a retail business. However, their personal journey diverged, and they have since divorced. Grant Young and Catherine have one daughter together. Following these transitions, Young has since relocated back to the Twin Cities metropolitan area of Minnesota, referring to Minneapolis and Saint Paul, a major cultural and economic hub in the Midwest.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grant Young

When did Grant Young join Soul Asylum?

Grant Young joined Soul Asylum in 1984, shortly after the release of their debut album, Say What You Will, Clarence...Karl Sold the Truck, replacing their previous drummer, Pat Morley.

Which Soul Asylum albums did Grant Young play on?

Grant Young played on several Soul Asylum albums throughout his tenure from 1984 to 1995. His final contributions were on the breakthrough album, Grave Dancers Union, where he recorded drums on approximately five or six tracks.

Did Grant Young play on "Runaway Train"?

While Grant Young performed "Runaway Train" live with Soul Asylum in concert, the studio version of the band's biggest hit was recorded by Sterling Campbell, who replaced Young during the Grave Dancers Union recording sessions.

What did Grant Young do after leaving Soul Asylum?

After his departure from Soul Asylum, Grant Young and his then-wife Catherine owned and operated a resort in the Boundary Waters region near Ely, Minnesota. Subsequently, they operated a retail business in Ely before he eventually moved back to the Twin Cities.

Who replaced Grant Young in Soul Asylum?

Grant Young was replaced by Sterling Campbell during the recording sessions for Grave Dancers Union. Sterling Campbell later went on to have a prominent career, notably drumming for David Bowie.