William “Rusty” Golden, the musician and songwriter known for his work in country and gospel music, passed away on July 1. He is the son of William Lee Golden, a longtime member of the Oak Ridge Boys, a popular country and gospel vocal group. Rusty Golden had a diverse career in the music industry, contributing to various projects both as a performer and a songwriter. He was 65.
He died at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee and no further details have been revealed about his cause of death.
His Father, William Lee Golden, made a statement announcing his son’s death, stating, “This is the hardest thing ever for a father to have to face. I love my family more than anything. Rusty was a great musician, a talented songwriter, and a wonderful son. We appreciate your thoughts and prayers for the days ahead. I love you, son.”
Rusty was the eldest son of William and Frogene Golden. He was born into a musical family in Brewton, Alabama.His childhood was steeped in the rich traditions of country and gospel music. As the son of William Lee Golden, a member of the legendary Oak Ridge Boys, Rusty was exposed to the music industry from an early age.
Rusty’s early years were filled with the sounds of his father’s band and the broader Nashville music scene. He often accompanied his father to recording sessions and performances, providing him with firsthand experience of the music business. By the time he reached his teenage years, Rusty was already performing and collaborating with other musicians.
In his later teen years, Rusty started touring with country singer sensation Larry Gatlin. In the 1980s, he co-founded a country-rock group known as The Boys Band. They released a record by the same name. In 1984, Rusty was collaborating with his father’s band the Oak Ridge Boys’ and worked on “The Bobbie Sue” album. He also worked with singer Barry White which led him to getting together with a gospel band called The Speer Family.
In the ‘80s, Rusty co-founded country-rock group The Boys Band, which released their self-titled debut album in 1982. Rusty earned a gold record for writing songs for the Oak Ridge Boys. He also worked with soul singer Barry white. This led him to start writing songs with Marc Speer, part of the well-known gospel group The Speer Family. They found success with their 1990 album “Rush for Gold.” This album produced three hit singles.
More recently, Rusty changed over back to his gospel roots. He had a few chart topping songs for hits like “The Booth Brothers” and “What Salvation’s Done for Me.”
In 2020 Rusty, his father and brother created a new family band named William Lee Golden and The Goldens. This family band brought together the talents of multiple generations, creating a blend of country, gospel, and Southern rock music. They toured the country and performed many times at the Grand Ole Opry. Rusty continued to write new songs and tour with his family band in this current year.
Rusty leaves behind his father, three brothers, and several additional family members.
Rest In Peace
