I T ‘ S L O N G O V E R D U E !
CRAIG CRONBAUGH
for IRRMA HALL OF FAME
CRAIG CRONBAUGH has been a driving force in Iowa’s music scene since the 1970s—not just behind the drums, but behind the scenes. His five-decade career spans roles as performer, preservationist, producer, organizer and historical archivist.
Whether elevating fellow musicians, curating Iowa’s musical heritage or contributing to national projects, Craig’s influence has rippled far beyond the stage.
This page showcases just a portion of his achievements, making the case for what many already know: Craig Cronbaugh belongs in the Iowa Rock and Roll Music Association’s Hall of Fame.
His induction isn’t just deserved—it’s long overdue.
LEGEND’S MEMORABILIA DONATED
TO CRAIG CRONBAUGH IN 2026
CRAIG CRONBAUGH WITH FRANKIE LAINE
IN 2026 THE FAMILY OF ICONIC MUSICIAN, Frankie Laine, has entrusted Laine’s memorabilia—including gold records and celebrity correspondence—to Laine’s close personal friend, Craig Cronbaugh.
For the backstory, photos and a poignant video, read the details: CLICK
DOUG KOEMPEL ENDORSEMENT
Doug Koempel and Craig
“In every era, there are a few people who do the quiet, unglamorous work of holding things together—of making sure the music lives on. Craig Cronbaugh is one of those rare people. He’s not only contributed to Iowa’s musical culture as a performer, but as a preservationist and organizer, he’s ensured that others are remembered too. That’s Hall of Fame material in my book.”
—Doug Koempel (“Dream River”, “Little Girl’s Eyes”, Hall of Fame inductee • 2x Grammy nomination ballot • former Chart Records recording artist)
REVIEWS ON CRAIG CRONBAUGH’S BOOK
REACHING FOR A STAR
“This memoir touches upon the author’s life, music career, and friendship with famed singer Frankie Laine…” — Barnes & Noble review
IOWA VETERANS ENDORSEMENT
“Craig Cronbaugh’s legacy as a musician, historian and cultural advocate earns full endorsement from National Invest In Veterans Week® for the Iowa Rock and Roll Music Association Hall of Fame . . .”
— Editorial Board, National Invest In Veterans Week®
AMERICAN VETERANS ENDORSEMENT
“If it weren’t for Craig Cronbaugh’s championing of House Resolution 36 in the early 2000s—formally honoring my husband Jeff Shuford’s grandfather, Jim Freeman, as a pioneer of rock and roll—there would be no National Invest In Veterans Week®, and there would be no Invest In America Week℠. That single act of legislative recognition created the blueprint for everything that followed. Craig didn’t just document history—he dignified it through policy. The entire digital infrastructure we’ve built—spanning more than 60 domains, multiple proclamations, and congressional recognition—stands on the foundation he laid. He gave our family a civic voice. Now it’s time we give his legacy the permanent honor it deserves.”
— Angel Shuford, President of National Invest In Veterans Week® and National Invest In America Week℠
Celebrity Endorsements
DODIE STEVENS ENDORSEMENT
Dodie Stevens and Craig
“Craig’s syncopated style of solo drumming really rocks! This is something that has especially inspired younger drummers.
“Craig Cronbaugh is an extremely talented musician, obviously born to play the drums!! His many years on the road helped create his passionate and powerful style of playing, and he is absolutely deserving of being inducted into the Iowa Rock and Roll Music Association Hall of Fame.”
— Dodie Stevens (“Pink Shoe Laces” gold record, recording artist, movie star)
JIM FREEMAN ENDORSEMENT
Jim Freeman and Craig
“…Craig has invested his musical talents, legislative diligence, and advocacy to help illustrate and augment the Rock and Roll industry more broadly and with notable success.”
— Jim Freeman (“In The Still Of The Night,” “To The Aisle” singer/songwriter, original member of the Five Satins)
CRONBAUGH’S INDUCTION ENDORSED BY OVER 100 SUPPORTERS — Including Industry Legends
More than 100 fans, peers and music lovers have already voiced their support for Craig Cronbaugh’s induction into the Iowa Rock and Roll Music Association Hall of Fame.
Among them: hit songwriter and country music icon Dickey Lee (“She Thinks I Still Care,” “Patches,” “The Wind Beneath My Wings”) and million-selling recording artist and film star Dodie Stevens (“Pink Shoe Laces”).
Their names — along with so many others — speak volumes about Craig’s lasting impact.
[View the Supporter List ➤]
DICKEY LEE ENDORSEMENT
Craig and Dickey Lee
“I believe Craig Cronbaugh’s numerous achievements over the years, both as a teacher, contributor and a talent himself is very much deserving of induction into the Iowa Rock and Roll Music Association Hall of Fame.”
— Dickey Lee (“She Thinks I Still Care,” “Patches,” “The Keeper Of The Stars” – singer/songwriter & writer for Elvis Presley)
KELLUM CORPORATION EDITORIAL ENDORSEMENT
“Today, we add our name to the growing chorus of voices calling for the formal induction of Craig Cronbaugh into the Iowa Rock and Roll Music Association Hall of Fame.
“In our assessment, based on public documentation, verified contributions, and institutional impact, Craig Cronbaugh has met—and exceeded—the historical, cultural, and civic thresholds that define Hall of Fame Distinction…”
— Brian H.. Jones
NEWLY-ESTABLISHED CRONBAUGH DRUM STUDIES SCHOLARSHIP
CLICK HERE to view WHO-TV’s coverage of the first-ever recipient of the Craig Cronbaugh Drum Studies Scholarship.
On Friday, August 29, 2025, Craig Cronbaugh awarded a $500 scholarship to eighth grader Tyler Ramirez of Indian Hills Jr. High in Clive, Iowa.
“In recognition of Craig Cronbaugh’s extraordinary contributions to lowa’s music scene and his impact on aspiring musicians, the Craig Cronbaugh Drum Studies Scholarship supports young drummers pursuing their passion. . .”
— City View (magazine), Des Moines, Iowa