Musician William “Rusty” Golden, son of Country Music Hall of Famer and Oak Ridge Boys member William Lee Golden, has passed away. Golden was 65 years old.
Rusty passed away at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee, on Monday, July 1. The cause of his death was not disclosed.
“This is the hardest thing ever for a father to have to face,” Rusty’s father, 85-year-old William Lee Golden, said in a statement. “I love my family more than anything.”
He added, “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.”
The Oak Ridge Boys honored William’s son with a heartfelt tribute on social media. “Yet another immeasurable loss for The Oak Ridge Boys family rest in peace, Rusty Golden, “the band wrote on X.
Rusty, born William Lee Golden, Jr., on January 3, 1959, in Brewton, Alabama, was the eldest son of William and Frogene Golden. According to the press release, he was immersed in music from a young age. Though he shared his father’s name, his family affectionately nicknamed him “Rusty” shortly after his birth.
Rusty started his music career early. By age 13, he was drumming for The Rambos, a band featuring songwriter Dottie Rambo. He later mastered the piano and, by 17, was touring with Larry Gatlin. As a pianist, he played on Larry Gatlin’s “Love Is Just a Game” and Marty Stuart’s “Pilgrim.”
Rusty formed his own band, The Boys Band, releasing their debut studio album in 1982. The group disbanded in 1984. Additionally, he collaborated with his father on The Oak Ridge Boys’ album Bobbie Sue.
Rusty Golden Returns to Gospel and Forms a Group with His Father, William Lee
In 2008, Rusty decided to return to gospel music, releasing two solo albums during this period: Sober and Angels.
Recently, Rusty and Chris teamed up with their father to form William Lee Golden and the Goldens. They were joined by their third brother, Craig Golden, along with their nieces, Elizabeth and Rebekah, and their nephew, Elijah, forming a band of three generations.
The group released three albums together: Country Roads: Vintage Country Classics, Old Country Church Gospel, and Southern Accents: Pop & Country Rock.
Rusty is survived by his father, William Lee, his brothers—Craig, Chris, and Solomon Golden—and numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, close friends, and devoted fans.