ABOUT
The Needhams are comprised of siblings Dave Needham and Diane Needham Mummert and her husband Steve. With a rich history spanning over 28 years, the Nashville-based band The Needhams have established themselves as a prominent force in American Gospel music. Renowned for their engaging stage presence and unwavering commitment to their craft, The Needhams blend heartfelt lyrics with close family harmonies that resonate with audiences across the nation.
The Needhams’ musical legacy began with David and Eileen, parents of Dave & Diane. David, who has been a musician for over 7 decades, spent his earliest years playing country and gospel styles with his wife, Eileen. Both David & Eileen were born in Massachusetts—David in Ashburnham, Eileen in Fall River. David graduated from Fitchburg High and subsequently, joined the country band Rusty and the Rainbow Valley Rangers. He later joined Eileen in NY state with the Genesee Valley Sweethearts which became the Country Skylarks. In 1971, the couple’s faith in Christ drew them to Country Gospel music. They were joined by their children Dave and Diane in the 1980’s. The family band toured regionally for years, and David and Eileen still travel with The Needhams to select dates throughout the year.
Dave moved on to become a member of the Dixie Melody Boys as a vocalist and bassist in 1994. While there, Dave was nominated for the Singing News Horizon Individual Award and garnered respect for his songwriting. His return to family harmony marks the beginning of The Needhams as they are today. Dave took the helm at age 25 as owner, and he manages the group, playing bass guitar, singing and continuing as a writer and producer for The Needhams and other artists.
Diane began singing at age of 2 in a LeRoy, NY, theatre. Later, the addition of Diane as the drummer to Dave’s bass guitar rounded out the family band with their parents David and Eileen both playing guitars. Diane attended Roberts Wesleyan University in New York, and married drummer Steve Mummert, joining his band, the Mummerts. During this period, Diane developed her songwriting skills and also played guitar and, occasionally, drums with Steve’s group until the couple joined The Needhams in 2000. Diane was a staff writer for a number of years for both the US Gospel News and sgmradio.com for the Life on the Road features, and is currently host of the radio program “Heart of the Song.”
Steve Mummert is a Pennsylvania native who began drumming for his family’s group at the age of 12, adding his voice to their group in his late teens, and their band toured the Mid-Atlantic region extensively. He met Diane at a music conference in 1992 and their whirlwind romance gave her his last name and added her to his family by the middle of 1993. They continued in Steve’s band for 6 more years. Then, in late 1999, Steve approached Dave about joining The Needhams, and now Steve is the road manager for the band as well as drummer and vocalist.
The Needhams’ musical journey includes being named SGNY Artist of the Year, and with over 3,600 appearances, they have traveled more than 1.5 million miles, bringing their uplifting message of Christ’s love to audiences across a multitude of venues. From prestigious platforms such as the Gibson Bluegrass Showcase and the Stardust Theatre to the renowned Opryland Hotel and the National Quartet Convention, The Needhams have established themselves as a staple in the gospel music community. Their performances have graced various fairs, theaters, Bible conferences, and even the stages of Royal Caribbean Cruise ships, showcasing their versatility and appeal.
The band’s most current projects, including “Hymns Volume 1” and “Legacy,” reflect their commitment to preserving and celebrating the roots of Gospel music while connecting with both longtime fans and new listeners. Their passion for the Lord shines through in every performance, making them a beloved name in the Christian music community.
As The Needhams continue to inspire with their music, they remain dedicated to spreading the message of hope and faith in Jesus, inviting everyone to join them on their remarkable musical journey.