We are pleased to welcome Deer Fry International to Rejoicify! This bluegrass gospel group from central Illinois has a unique story that began with a tradition of fellowship, food, and music. During the 1970s and 1980s, Roy Wiegand's father hosted gatherings known as "deer fries," where approximately 100 men would enjoy deer burgers and fellowship. As the evenings progressed, musicians would gather with their guitars, mandolins, and banjos, often playing and singing well past midnight. When Roy and fellow musicians Daryl Blunier, Wes Hohulin, and Doug Knecht were invited to perform at the Apostolic Christian Home in Eureka, Illinois, they were asked what their group should be called. Wes spontaneously answered, "Deer Fry International," and the memorable name became a lasting part of their story.

For more than 30 years, Deer Fry International shared bluegrass gospel music at nursing homes, churches, and special gatherings throughout Illinois and beyond, including performances in Arizona, Kansas, and Missouri. Over the years, Merle Lawson joined the group on banjo, while Scott Leman contributed bass guitar and bass vocals. Their music combined traditional gospel favorites with the distinctive instrumentation and harmonies of bluegrass. The group recorded three cassette tapes before transitioning to CDs, preserving their music for others to enjoy. One of their signature songs, "He Grew the Tree," featured an arrangement incorporating a portion of "The Old Rugged Cross" and became the song they traditionally used to close their performances.

Although Deer Fry International retired as a group in 2020, their legacy of music and fellowship continues. Roy and Daryl still occasionally share familiar hymns at nursing homes, carrying forward the same love of gospel music that first brought the musicians together. From late-night gatherings at a deer fry to decades of sharing songs of faith, their story is a reminder of how a simple love for music can grow into a meaningful ministry. We invite you to enjoy the bluegrass gospel sounds of Deer Fry International, now available on Rejoicify!