Oak Ridge Boys' Rusty Golden Dies at 65

Rusty Golden, the son of country music icon William Lee Golden and a Grammy-winning musician in his own right, has passed away at the age of 65. The Oak Ridge Boys paid tribute to Golden, remembering him as a "great musician" and "talented songwriter."

The music world is mourning the loss of Rusty Golden, the son of country music legend William Lee Golden and a Grammy-winning musician in his own right. Golden passed away at the age of 65 on July 1, 2023, at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee.

Oak Ridge Boys' Rusty Golden Dies at 65

The news was confirmed by Fox News Digital, and Golden's father released a statement expressing his grief and love for his son. "This is the hardest thing ever for a father to have to face," said William Lee Golden, 85. "I love my family more than anything."

Rusty Golden inherited his father's musical talent and began his own career in music at a young age. At 13, he was playing the drums for the band The Rambos, which featured songwriter Dottie Rambo. He mastered the piano by 17 and went on to tour with Larry Gatlin.

Oak Ridge Boys' Rusty Golden Dies at 65

Golden played on Larry Gatlin's Grammy-winning recording of "Love Is Just a Game" and Marty Stuart's "Pilgrim." He eventually formed his own band, The Boys Band, and produced their first studio album in 1982. The group disbanded in 1984.

Golden also collaborated with his father on The Oak Ridge Boys' album "Bobbie Sue." Later, he joined forces with his brother, Chris Golden, to create The Goldens, releasing songs such as "Put Us Together Again" and "Sorry Girls."

Oak Ridge Boys' Rusty Golden Dies at 65

In 2008, Golden returned to his gospel music roots and released two solo albums, "Sober" and "Angels." Most recently, he joined his father and Chris Golden to form the trio William Lee Golden and the Goldens.

The family-based group released three albums together: "Country Roads: Vintage Country Classics," "Old Country Church Gospel," and "Southern Accents: Pop & Country Rock."

Oak Ridge Boys' Rusty Golden Dies at 65

Rusty Golden is survived by his father, William Lee, and his brothers Craig, Chris, and Solomon Golden. He is also survived by numerous nieces, nephews, extended family members, close friends, and fans.

The Oak Ridge Boys paid tribute to Golden on social media, saying, "Yet another immeasurable loss for The Oak Ridge Boys family rest in peace, Rusty Golden."

The music community and fans around the world are saddened by the loss of Rusty Golden, a talented musician and a beloved son, brother, and father. His legacy will live on through his music and the memories he created with his family and friends.