In a heartbreaking announcement, The Oak Ridge Boys revealed that William 'Rusty' Golden, the son of legendary country musician William Lee Golden and former member of the band, passed away at the age of 65. Rusty died at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee on July 1, according to an official press release.

The news of Rusty's untimely passing has left his father devastated. William Lee Golden, in a heartfelt statement, expressed the immense pain of losing his son. The grieving father praised Rusty for his musical prowess, songwriting talents, and their unbreakable bond as father and son. The family has not disclosed the cause of Rusty's death.

Rusty's musical journey began at a young age. He started playing the drums for The Rambos at just 13 years old, and by 17, he had already written his first song. Inspired by an Elton John concert in 1972, Rusty learned to play the piano and eventually toured with Larry Gatlin as a keyboard player. His keyboard skills were showcased on various studio recordings, including Larry Gatlin's 'Love Is Just A Game' and Marty Stuart's 'Pilgrim'.

By the age of 20, Rusty found himself recording at Quadraphonic Studios in Nashville for ABC Records and later helped form The Boys Band. In 2020, Rusty and his brother Chris joined forces with their father to create the family band 'William Lee Golden and the Goldens'. They were also joined by their brother Craig, nieces Elizabeth and Rebekah, and nephew Elijah to form a three-generation family band.

Rusty's talent and dedication to music led to his remarkable achievements. He received an RIAA Gold Record for his songwriting contributions on The Oak Ridge Boys' 'Bobbie Sue' album. Later in life, Rusty redirected his songwriting to gospel roots after a quadruple bypass surgery. Last year, he was honored as keyboard player of the year at the Josie Music Awards, a testament to his musical prowess.

Loved ones describe Rusty as a charismatic entertainer who could captivate audiences with his energetic live performances. He was regarded as one of Nashville's sought-after musicians, known for his talent, wit, and charm. Rusty's passing is mourned not only by his father William Lee Golden but also by his brothers Craig, Chris, and Solomon, as well as many nieces and nephews.

The news of Rusty's passing comes at a difficult time for The Oak Ridge Boys. Earlier this year, their frontman Duane Allen's wife, Norah Lee Allen, passed away on Easter, followed by singer Richard Sterban losing his father-in-law. The Oak Ridge Boys, founded in 1943, gained fame in the 1950s as a Southern gospel group. In the mid-1970s, they transitioned to country music and sustained their success.

The country music community mourns the loss of William 'Rusty' Golden, remembering him not only as a talented musician but also as a cherished member of the Oak Ridge Boys family. Rusty's contributions to country music will be remembered and celebrated for years to come.