Rusty Golden has died at the age of 65, Fox News Digital has confirmed.
The musician died on July 1 at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee.
“This is the hardest thing a parent can ever face,” Rusty's father, William Lee Golden, 85, said in a statement shared with Fox News Digital. “I love my family more than anything.”
“Rusty was a great musician, a talented songwriter and a wonderful son,” she added. “We appreciate your thoughts and prayers for the days ahead. I love you, son.”
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Rusty Golden passed away at the age of 65. (Kris Rae)
The Oak Ridge Boys paid tribute to William's son on social media.
“Another immeasurable loss for the Oak Ridge Boys family. Rest in peace, Rusty Golden,” reads the statement shared with X.
Rusty began his own musical career at an early age. By the age of 13, he was playing drums in the band The Rambos, which also featured songwriter Dottie Rambo. He mastered the piano and by the age of 17, he was touring with Larry Gatlin.
The pianist played on Larry Gatlin's recording of “Love Is Just a Game” along with Marty Stuart's “Pilgrim.”
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Rusty Golden, William Lee Golden and Chris Golden attend the special screening and VIP reception for “Smokey Mountain Spring” on June 27, 2012. (Photo by Beth Gwinn/Getty Images)
Rusty formed his own band, The Boys Band, and they produced their first studio album in 1982. The group disbanded in 1984.
The musician also worked with his father on The Oak Ridge Boys' album “Bobbie Sue.”
Rusty was eventually joined by his brother, Chris Golden. The two released songs under the name The Goldens, including “Put Us Together Again” and “Sorry Girls.”
Joe Bonsall, William Lee Golden, Duane Allen and Richard Sterban star together as the Oak Ridge Boys. (David Redfern/Redferns via Getty Images)
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Rusty Golden was the son of William Lee Golden of The Oak Ridge Boys. (Daniel Knighton/Getty Images)
In 2008, Rusty decided to return to gospel music. During this period, he released two solo albums: “Sober” and “Angels”.
Recently, Rusty and Chris joined their father to form William Lee Golden and the Goldens. The trio was joined by a third brother, Craig Golden, along with nieces Elizabeth and Rebekah and nephew Elijah.
The three-generation 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, and brothers: Craig, Chris and Solomon Golden, along with many nieces, nephews, other relatives, close friends and fans.
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