[citation needed] It was while he was attending the latter school that he penned and first sang "I'll Get Over You", while performing at the Crossroads Coffeehouse in Richmond, Virginia's Fan District.

[1] In 1978, he won the Grammy Award for Best Country Song with "Don't It Make My Brown Eyes Blue", again sung by Gayle.

[2] He was also nominated for "The Greatest Man I Never Knew", co-written with Layng Martine Jr..[1] Other prominent singers who have brought his songs number one status over the years include Billy Dean, Mickey Gilley, Reba McEntire, Barbara Mandrell, Steve Wariner, and Don Williams.

In 1999, the Dixie Chicks recorded Leigh's "Cold Day in July" for their album Fly,[2] reaching number 10 on the country music charts in 2000.

Proceeds from the event go to VHCC's Great Expectations program benefiting foster care students.