William “Rusty” Golden, a renowned musician and songwriter, and the son of The Oak Ridge Boys member William Lee Golden, passed away on July 1, 2024, at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee. He was 65 years old.
Rusty Golden was born on January 3, 1959, in Brewton, Alabama, as the eldest son of William and Frogene Golden. His given name was William Lee Golden Jr., but he was affectionately called “Rusty” by his family from a young age. Growing up in a musically inclined household, Rusty was surrounded by music from an early age. By the age of 12, he was already proficient in playing the drums and began playing professionally with The Rambos, a Southern gospel group featuring the legendary songwriter Dottie Rambo, at the age of 13.
Rusty’s journey into songwriting was influenced by his grandmother and great-grandfather’s love of poetry. He composed his first song by setting one of his grandmother’s poems to music. His musical direction took a significant turn after attending an Elton John concert in 1972, which inspired him to learn to play the piano. By the age of 17, Rusty was touring with country singer-songwriter Larry Gatlin and played on several studio recordings, including Gatlin’s 1977 album “Love Is Just a Game” and Marty Stuart’s 1999 concept project “Pilgrim.”
In the early 1980s, Rusty co-founded the country-rock group The Boys Band. The group released their debut album in 1982, which included the song “Runner” and “Don’t Stop Me Baby (I’m on Fire),” the latter of which entered the Billboard Hot 100 chart. The Boys Band disbanded in 1984, but Rusty continued to thrive in his career. That same year, he earned an RIAA Gold record for his songwriting contributions to The Oak Ridge Boys’ “Bobbie Sue” album. This success encouraged him to start writing songs with Marc Speer, leading to the formation of Golden Speer in 1985, which included Rusty’s brother Chris Golden on lead vocals.
By 1986, Rusty and Chris began recording as the duo The Goldens, releasing the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart entries “Put Us Together Again” and “Sorry Girls.” They later moved to Capitol/SBK Records and issued the 1990 album “Rush For Gold,” which included the songs “Take Me Back (To the Country),” “Keep the Faith,” and “Long Gone.”
Rusty eventually returned to his gospel music roots, writing several notable songs, including “What Salvation’s Done For Me” for The Booth Brothers and “I Want to Thank You” for Karen Peck & New River. He also released solo albums such as “Sober” and “Angels.”
In 2020, Rusty, along with his brother Chris and their father William Lee Golden, formed the family band William Lee Golden and the Goldens. They were joined by brother Craig, nieces Elizabeth and Rebekah, and nephew Elijah, creating a three-generation family band. The group released a trio of projects: “Country Roads: Vintage Country Classics,” “Old Country Church Gospel,” and “Southern Accents: Pop & Country Rock.” Rusty was honored for his musicianship in 2023 when he was named keyboard player of the year at the Josie Music Awards.
William Lee Golden expressed his grief in a statement, saying, “This is the hardest thing ever for a father to have to face. I love 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 Golden is preceded in death by his mother Frogene Normand, grandparents Luke & Rutha Mae Golden, and Elliot & Estelle Normand. He is survived by his father William Lee Golden (Simone), and brothers Craig Golden, Chris Golden (Marie), and Solomon Golden, as well as many nieces, nephews, and other extended family members.
Rusty Golden will be remembered not only for his musical talents but also for his charismatic presence and ability to connect with audiences. His contributions to both country and gospel music have left a lasting impact, and he will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and fans.
Funeral and memorial details are pending and will be made available on the official website and social media pages of William Lee Golden and the Goldens.
Source: Billboard, People, Deadline, Taste of Country
