Alfred Brumley (1905-1975) was a prolific composer of gospel music whose work shaped the sound of American sacred music in the twentieth century. Though he composed thousands of songs, many in the traditional gospel idiom, his influence extended far beyond the church; his melodies found their way into concert halls, recordings, and choral arrangements across denominations and musical settings.
Brumley's gift was for writing tunes that felt both timeless and immediate. He understood how a simple, memorable melody paired with honest spiritual conviction could move people. "Fly Away Home" exemplifies his approach: direct in its expression, singable across all voices, and rooted in the folk idiom that gave American gospel its warmth and accessibility.
