Prayers Requested for Randall Wilds, Facing Quadruple Coronary Artery Bypass Surgery

Randall Wilds, CEO and founder of Wilds & Associates, based in West Alabama, has been diagnosed with blockages in four coronary arteries and is being prepared now for open heart bypass surgery within the next 48 hours.

On Thursday, July 11, Wilds was taken to the local emergency room after experiencing chest pains and numbness in his fingers and legs. From there he was scheduled for a visit with a heart specialist in Tuscaloosa, Alabama yesterday (Wednesday, July 17) where he underwent further testing. This morning, (Thursday, July, 18), a heart catheterization revealed the blockages and the doctors determined that quadruple bypass was necessary.

Randall shares, “I sure wasn’t expecting surgery to be the end result. But I know everything happens for a reason, and I know I’m in God’s care. Thank you for your continued prayers and support. I love and appreciate you all.”

For those interested, we will be posting his progress and updates on the Wilds & Associates Facebook page.

Obituary For Mrs. Myrtle Sue (Tench) Peck Music, (Karen Peck & New River)

Myrtle Sue Music Obituary

Mrs. Myrtle Sue (Tench) Peck Music, 90, of Gainesville, passed away Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Ashton Assisted Living following an extended illness.

The family received friends at Memorial Park Funeral Home Monday, July 15, 2024 from 6:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, July 16, 2024, in the Chapel of Memorial Park Funeral Home. Rev. Danny Akers and Rev. Mark Smith will officiate. Interment will be in Memorial Park Cemetery.

Born on September 23, 1933, in Clayton, GA, she was the daughter of the late John Wilkes (J.W.) and Myrtie Lou Freeman Tench. She was retired from the Hall County School System where she was a lunchroom cook. Mrs. Music attended Free Chapel.

Sue’s life was a testament to her unwavering faith, her love for music, and her dedication to her family. She leaves behind a legacy of love, strength, and devotion to the Lord that will forever be cherished by all who knew her.

Sue was a beloved wife, mother, grandmother, great-grandmother, great-great grandmother, and a friend who loved Jesus and her family more than anything in this world. As the heart of her family, she brought warmth and joy to all who knew her. Her laughter was contagious, spreading joy wherever she went.

Sue had a deep passion for music, especially gospel. She was gifted with musical talent, playing the piano, singing, writing beautiful songs that touched many hearts. (She taught her daughters how to sing.) She also loved spending time with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She loved decorating, telling childhood stories, going through old pictures, collecting things that had precious memories, and cooking. Her homemade Mac & Cheese, chicken & dressing, and her famous peanut butter cake, a cherished family tradition, will continue to create lasting memories.

Sue exemplified what it means to be a mother, always dependable and there to support her daughters. She was very proud of all three of her daughters and had stated that they were her greatest accomplishments. Sue was dearly loved by her daughters. She will always be their hero and ultimate role model.

In any situation, Sue would often quote scripture or sing a song, and always made things a matter of prayer. Her strength in the Lord will be forever remembered and cherished.

She has left an indelible mark on the lives of everyone who knew her. Her favorite scripture, Philippians 4:13, will continue to inspire those she loved: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” Sue’s legacy of faith, love, and joy will be carried on by her family and friends, who will always treasure the memories they shared with her. One of her last quotes while on earth was ‘God gives good answers.’

Sue finished well.

In addition to her parents, Mrs. Music was preceded in death by her first husband, Robert Ezra Peck and seven siblings.

Mrs. Music is survived by her husband, Bill H. Music of Gainesville; daughters, Sandra (Clarence) Peck of Gainesville; Susan (David) Jackson of Dahlonega, Karen (Rickey) Gooch of Dahlonega; grandchildren, Alesha (Miguel) Godoy, Lindsey (Matthew) Hall, Joseph Jackson, Matthew (Preslee) Gooch, Kari (Chandler Baucom; great-grandchildren, Ashleigh (Michael) Street, Austin, Sophia, and Cristian Godoy, Jacob Kyle and Logan Hall, Isla and Jack Gooch; great-great grandchild, Psalms Godoy; bonus daughters, Elizabeth (Danny) Akers, Kathy (Wayne) Snyder all of Ohio; several bonus grandchildren, great-grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren; brother, Lee Tench of Atlanta and several nieces, nephews and other loving relatives.

Memorial Park Funeral Home, 2030 Memorial Park Rd., Gainesville, Ga. 30504 is in charge of the arrangements.

Obituary provided by Memorial Park Funeral Homes

STOWTOWN RECORDS ANNOUNCES DEBUT RECORDING, WHERE YOU ARE, FROM PEACH GOLDMAN

Exciting new music comes in hot this summer from StowTown Records with the release of the debut recording from dynamic vocal team, Peach Goldman. Since bursting on the Christian music scene in early 2024, Peach Goldman has quickly gained the attention of fans and industry tastemakers alike. Destined for success, Peach Goldman is the culmination of three longtime friends who share a common love of music and a deep desire to present the message of the Gospel with excellence.

Comprised of husband/wife duo Troy and Katy Peach, along with their dear friend Andrew Goldman, the trio collectively possesses decades of musical experience, touring with such popular groups as The Perrys, The Nelons, The Mike Speck Trio, The Wilburns and The Steeles. Possessing such a rich history in the gospel music arena, it’s no surprise that the trio has already found their place in the industry. Their first national radio single, “Grace Will Lead You Home,” became the highest charting debut song ever from a new artist. Additionally, their second single, “Storms I Never See,” which released in May, is already receiving rave reviews, charting on stations in over two dozen markets. “It’s absolutely amazing to see what God has already done through the ministry of Peach Goldman,” Stowtown Records President and CEO Landon Beene states. “We are also thrilled to be a part of this new ministry and excited about the great things the future holds for Troy, Katy and Andrew.”

Where You Are merges the creative gifts of Peach Goldman with multi-GMA Dove Award® winning and Grammy® nominated producer, Wayne Haun, and features songs by such prolific writers as Don West, Joel Lindsey, Twila LaBar, Cindi Ballard, Ray Davis and Sue C. Smith, just to name a few. Each arrangement possesses progressive, rich vocals, complemented by first-class orchestrations and instrumentation by many of the industry’s most gifted musicians, including Jason Webb, Gordon Mote, Kevin Williams, Jeremy Medkiff and Trey Ivey. The end result is a musical collection that even exceeded the expectations of their beloved producer himself. “I’ve known these three for years and have worked with them countless times in the studio,” Haun shares. “I knew they would sound great together, but working with them on this particular project far exceeded my expectations. Their blend is fresh, exciting and one that fans are going to love.”

From the worshipful “I Tremble” to the acoustical “For My Good” to the moving ballad “Grace Meets You Where You Are,” this collection of songs meets each listener exactly where they are. “Our goal was to deliver multiple messages for the seasons of life that each Christian goes through,” Troy Peach explains, “and we believe this recording does just that. God is good. He is faithful, and His grace knows no end. He meets us right where we are in our walk, and that’s good news!”

For Christian music lovers there’s more good news! Peach Goldman plans to deliver great music for many years to come. Where You Are is distributed exclusively by Provident/Sony and is available at digital and retail outlets worldwide. Listen to the full project here.

Links: https://www.peachgoldman.com

https://www.facebook.com/peachgoldman

https://www.instagram.com/peachgoldman

https://youtube.com/@peachgoldman

 

NASHVILLE CHRISTIAN SONGWRITERS CELEBRATES EXPONENTIAL GROWTH WITH NEW LABEL AND KEY HIRES Acquisition of Historic Studio Further Expands Organization's Impact

Founded nearly a decade ago by veteran songwriter, producer and industry executive John Chisum with a mission “to empower Christian songwriters worldwide,” Nashville Christian Songwriters (NCS) opens an unprecedented new chapter with the launch of the NCS Collective and NCS Community; the addition of key staff; and the acquisition of a state-of-the-art studio and event space.

“NCS has always been about community,” says Chisum. “Songwriting and ministry can be lonely endeavors, so we’re thrilled to be providing a space for Christian artists and writers to not only find resources to grow, but a place to belong and build up their network of contacts, support and fellowship.”

Offering record label and publishing services for the first time, Chisum recently unveiled the NCS Collective. Designed to create and distribute faith-based music hallmarked by stylistic diversity, the NCS Collective welcomes acclaimed singer/songwriter Coby James as well as Chisum himself as the label’s flagship artists, along with a burgeoning lineup of genre-spanning talent. 

“We have so much great music coming out of our NCS Community and artist development clients that it would be a shame to not let people experience the powerful songs we hear on a day-to-day basis," explains Bryant Urich, director of production and studio operations, NCS. "The Collective is very eclectic on purpose—we’re not limited to one genre or style as a label.”

Further expanding the ministry’s footprint is the new NCS Community. A subscription-based program offering regularly scheduled workshops, instructional downloads, and guest presentations from veteran artists and industry professionals, among a wealth of other tools, the NCS Community is an affordable, inspirational and informative space where independent singer/songwriters can flourish.  

In addition, Chisum announces two key staff appointments which will serve to vitally undergird the organization’s exponential growth. Joining NCS from Gaither Music Group, Hannah Franklin steps into the role of director of marketing and artist services and assistant to Chisum, while acclaimed singer/songwriter and producer Bryant Urich has been named director of production and studio operations. 

Boasting a world-class recording studio, podcast suite and versatile event space in the heart of Nashville’s creative district, NCS recently relocated to the historic Berry Hill studio formerly owned by iconic country music songwriter and producer Keith Stegall. 

Chisum also continues to host and produce NCS’ popular “Song Revolution” podcast. With nearly 200 episodes to date, the show has become synonymous with the organization’s mission, featuring insightful conversations on songwriting and artistry with such names as Bear Rinehart (NEEDTOBREATHE), Kari Jobe, Matt Maher and Ryan Stevenson. 

ABOUT JOHN CHISUM 

A respected music publishing and artist development professional, John Chisum previously served as director of song development and copyright at Integrity Music, as well as vice president of publishing at Star Song Communications, among other key industry roles. As a songwriter, Chisum has more than 400 compositions to his credit, including numerous Christian radio hits and various selections published in hymnals. Launching Nashville Christian Songwriters (NCS) in 2015 as a coaching and resource company, Chisum has guided the organization's impressive growth via an ever-evolving range of resources and strategic events that impact artists, worship leaders and songwriters around the world each year. 

For further information, visit nashvillechristiansongwriters.com.

Follow NCS on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.  

Sound Street announces upcoming album, "Good Seed"

“I have worked with Sound Street since they began singing,” said esteemed Southern Gospel artist and producer Roger Talley when the trio was signed to Sonlite Records at the end of 2023. “Jarrod Vanderslice and Ryan Bilby have always been great singers and talented communicators. Jaylie inherited the natural, God-given musical talent and is now taking an important role center stage with Sound Street.”

The truth of Talley’s observations was borne out quickly enough with the release ofSound Street’s first single, “Mansions,” at the beginning of the year, but the upcoming release of their debut album for the label drives home the point in an unmistakable way. Infused with the energy of youth, the spirit of unshakeable faith and an abundance of talent, brought to life in settings molded by Talley’s signature blend of creative innovation and mastery of tradition, Good Seed — now available for pre-save/add ahead of its August 30 release — reveals a group that has seized the opportunity to bring their music and its message to an ever-widening audience.

“In Mark Chapter 4,” recalls Jarrod Vanderslice, “Jesus shares a powerful parable about a farmer who sowed seeds into his field. By leaving the seeds to grow in their own time, the parable illustrates the strength of the Gospel ‘seed.’ It reminds us that although we may not see immediate results, the Gospel will bear fruit at the right time. Our new project, Good Seed, embodies this message. Each song in this project represents a small yet powerful seed. Wherever you are today, these songs will take root and grow, offering you encouragement and the reminder that God’s goodness will ultimately lead to a fruitful and fulfilling life in His perfect timing.”

Indeed, each of Good Seed’s dozen songs has been carefully shaped — first by their songwriters, a group that includes multiple contributions from Adina Bowman, Rebecca J. Peck and Tony Bowman, as well as familiar names like Matthew Westand Joseph Habedank, then by Talley and the members of Sound Street — with an arrangement and a performance that underlines its unique yet universal outlook. Whether it’s the soaring majesty of the stately opener, “Mountains Will Fall,” which features Jarrod Vanderslice’s convincing vocal, the excitingly modern touches that frame Jaylie Vanderslice’s confident-beyond-her-years lead on their top 40 (and rising) lead-off single, “Mansions,” the quiet warmth of “Looking Up” or the rootsy, acoustic flavor and trio focus of the closing meditation, “The One Who Is Unworthy,” Good Seed is a collection that elegantly matches music to message to create a powerful artistic and spiritual listening experience.

“I thoroughly enjoyed working on this new project by Sound Street,” says Talley. “It has one of the strongest collections of new songs that I have been privileged to produce. They are very wise and seasoned for their time as a new artist and have chosen some incredible songs to showcase on this project. I can’t wait for you to hear the vocal stylings of young Jaylie Vanderslice, the exciting and heartfelt interpretations from her dad Jarrod, and the powerful delivery of baritone Ryan Bilby. Their vocal performances are exceptional, and I know you are going to enjoy this whole project!”

Shirah Brothers Welcome New Member: Samuel McIntyre

The Shirah Brothers are thrilled to announce the newest addition to their group, Samuel McIntyre from Indianapolis, Indiana. Known for his exceptional talent and vibrant personality, Samuel brings a fresh dynamic to the Shirah Brothers, promising an exciting new chapter for the beloved group. With his impressive background in music, combined with his passion and dedication, fans should continue to look forward to more great Gospel music and performances from Shirah Brothers.

This transition comes as Aaron Shirah steps down from his role in the group. Aaron has decided to pursue new opportunities but leaves on very positive terms. He has expressed his full support and endorsement of Samuel McIntyre as his successor. In a recent statement, Aaron shared, “I’m confident that Samuel will bring a new and exciting energy to the group. I believe he will continue to uphold the values and quality that our fans love.”

Samuel McIntyre states, “I’m so excited for this opportunity to travel and sing with my brothers in Christ, and I’m eagerly looking forward to what God has planned!’

And Jacob Shirah responds, “We are glad to have Samuel as a part of the Shirah Brothers. He has already made a great addition to our team, and we can’t wait to share him with all of our fans across the country.”

The Shirah Brothers remain committed to delivering unforgettable performances and heartfelt Christian music. With Samuel McIntyre on board, the group is looking forward to creating new memories and continuing their journey with their loyal fans.

About the Shirah Brothers:

The Shirah Brothers are known for their smooth harmonies, tight blend and their infectious personalities. They’ve had performances on many of Gospel music’s biggest stages, such as the National Quartet Convention, Dollywood, Graceland, The Creation Museum, and The Ark Encounter. With a passion for Southern Gospel music and a dedication to their craft, they have built a strong fanbase and a reputation for ministering and touching people’s hearts all across the Country.

To book them for a concert or special event:

EMAIL at theshirahbrothers@gmail.com

CALL at 863-514-5790

VISIT their website, https://www.shirahbrothers.com/

JOE BONSALL, LONG TIME MEMBER OF THE OAK RIDGE BOYS, DEAD AT 76

Joseph S. Bonsall (76) of Hendersonville, Tennessee passed on to Glory on July 9, 2024, from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis. He leaves behind his precious wife, Mary Ann, daughters Jennifer and Sabrina, granddaughter Breanne, grandson Luke, two great grandsons, Chance and Grey, and a sister, Nancy. He is preceded in death by his parents Joseph S. Bonsall Sr. and Lillie Bonsall.

As a 50-year member of the American music group The Oak Ridge Boys, Joe was a member of the Grand Ole Opry and inducted into the Philadelphia Music Hall of Fame, the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and the prestigious Country Music Hall of Fame.

Joseph is also the author of 11 books including his latest, a memoir entitled I See Myself, which releases in November. Joe loved to sing. He loved to read. He loved to write. He loved to play banjo. He loved working on the farm. And he loved the Philadelphia Phillies. But Jesus and his family always came first—and we will see him again on the Promised Day.

At the request of Joe, there will be no funeral. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to The ALS Association or to the Vanderbilt Medical Center ALS and Neuroscience Research Center.

Countdown is on for the 2024 James D. Vaughan Quartet Festival in Lawrenceburg, TN!

Gospel music, whose traditional roots have influenced many styles of music over the years, was first popularized largely thanks to James D. Vaughan, who started in Lawrenceburg, Tennessee.

Vaughan is widely hailed as the founder of Southern Gospel Music because of his work as a musician, music teacher, publisher, and radio station owner. The James D. Vaughan Quartet Festival will be held July 24-27 to celebrate his influence on gospel music’s past, present, and future.

In the 1900s, Vaughan started publishing his own music to promote his quartet. James D. Vaughan Music Publishing Company eventually grew to be one of the biggest publishers in the country and sponsored touring quartets to sell songbooks that we still sing in churches and revivals today. Vaughan’s radio station, WOAN, brought gospel to the masses.

This year’s lineup includes some of the biggest names in Southern Gospel Music.

At 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, July 24, you will hear the music of the Greater Vision, Mark Trammell Quartet, Guardians, and a special rare appearance by the Second Half Quartet.

Thursday, July 25, at 7:00 p.m., will feature The Inspirations, Gold City, Mylon Hayes Family, and The Whisnants.

Friday, July 26, at 7:00 p.m., there will be a Dove Brothers Quartet and a Spencer Family (JB, Barbara, Kevin, Geniece) Reunion along with the Kingsmen and the world-famous Chuck Wagon Gang.

Gaither Homecoming Artist Ernie Haase & Signature Sound are scheduled for a performance on Saturday, July 27, beginning at 2:00 p.m. The Saturday all-star line-up includes the Triumphant Quartet, The Perrys, Down East Boys, and Josh & Ashley Franks.

Two additional FREE matinee shows will be at 1:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday. Gerald Wolfe’s Gospel Music Hymn Sing will return on Thursday and feature Greater Vision, Mark Trammell Quartet, Mylon Hayes Family, Whisnants, Jim & Melissa Brady, and the Hymn Sing Band. The Dixie Echoes & the Blackwood Brothers will sing traditional quartet music on Friday.

Host Quartet and Lawrenceburg’s own, The Kellys, will appear during the week.

Josh Franks will be the MC for the entire festival.

Lawrenceburg, known as the birthplace of Southern Gospel, celebrates the life and the music Mr. Vaughan loved each year downtown at the historic Crockett Theater. For more information or tickets, call 1-931-762-4231. You may also order your tickets online at www.lawrenceburgtn.gov.

ROCK SPRINGS WORSHIP SPANS GENERATIONS WITH NEW HYMNS COMPILATION

On the heels of their widely embraced debut hymns set last year, Georgia-based collective Rock Springs Worship returns August 2 with Hymns Vol. 2. The StowTown Worship release was produced by Rock Springs Church music director Matt Summers and features stirring new adaptations of 10 timeless hymns. 

Album opener “I’ll Fly Away” is buoyed by a vibrant pop arrangement, encapsulating the project’s mission to seamlessly blend the past and present in authentic moments of worship. Alongside new renditions of such favorites as “What a Friend We Have in Jesus” and “God Will Take Care of You,” Hymns Vol. 2 showcases four selections artfully merging hymns and contemporary worship anthems, including a moving take on “Holy, Holy, Holy” with Michael W. Smith’s modern classic “Agnus Dei.”    

“Our congregation has been singing hymns since its inception in 1852,” shares Amber Balltzglier, Rock Springs Church worship leader and co-executive producer of Hymns Vol. 2. “As music styles have evolved, we saw the necessity of putting the timeless messages of hymns with contemporary instrumentation to make them more at home in our modern worship experience. I believe the Lord has helped us achieve that goal with Hymns Vol. 1 and Vol. 2.”

“When we sing hymns, we sing the Truth of God’s Word, and it never returns void,” she adds. “We want generations to hear and know these old songs and connect a memory or experience with God to these words and melodies.”  

Hymns Vol. 2 is also highlighted by a guest turn from multi-Dove Award-winning powerhouse TaRanda Greene. Lending her signature vocals to “It is Well with My Soul,” Greene’s ties to Rock Springs Church made her a natural fit for the project.

“I am honored to be a part of this hymns project,” Greene says. “I love the hymns of the Church, and I love the people of Rock Springs. The pastoral and music teams make sure that everyone who walks through the doors of the church has the opportunity to have a personal experience with the Lord.”

“It’s refreshing to add hymns to a modern-day worship service, because they can unite a congregation of all ages, races and backgrounds in a way that no other song can,” she continues. “‘It Is Well’ reminds all of us that we aren’t alone. Even in the darkest of times, the love of God brings us peace and courage to keep moving forward.”  

RUSTY GOLDEN, SON OF THE OAK RIDGE BOYS’ WILLIAM LEE GOLDEN, DEAD AT 65

"Until the Lord calls me away from this world to the next, I want to make it clear that I believe in Jesus Christ as the true Lord and Savior. I believe that Jesus is the Son of God, was sacrificed on the cross, died for our sins, and rose again. HE loves us." - Rusty Golden

Country Music Hall of Fame and The Oak Ridge Boys member William Lee Golden’s son, William ‘Rusty’ Golden, passed away July 1, 2024 at the age of 65 at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee.

“This is the hardest thing ever for a father to have to face. I love my 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.” - William Lee Golden

Rusty was born January 3, 1959, in Brewton, Alabama, as the eldest son of William and Frogene Golden. His given name was William Lee Golden, Jr., named after his father, but his family began calling him "Rusty" shortly after his birth.

Music was a constant presence in the Golden household, with both of Rusty's parents coming from musical families where singing and playing instruments were encouraged. Unsurprisingly, Rusty began showing his musical talent at a young age. By the time he was in 6th grade, around age 12, he was already proficiently playing drums. At the age of 13, he started playing drums professionally for The Rambos, featuring the legendary songwriter, Dottie Rambo.

Rusty's songwriting career was influenced by his grandmother and great-grandfather's love of poetry. His paternal grandmother was a prolific poet, with her work often published in the town's newspaper. Growing up, Rusty understood the connection between words and music. As a youngster, he composed his first song by setting his grandmother's poetry to music.

His whole musical life took a turn when he attended an Elton John concert in 1972. After this show, Rusty turned the drumsticks over to his brother Chris and started learning how to play the piano. At 17, he started touring playing keys with Larry Gatlin.  He eventually played on several studio recordings including Larry Gatlin’s “Love Is Just A Game,” Marty Stuart’s “Pilgrim” and countless others.

By age 20 he was recording at Quadraphonic Studios in Nashville for ABC Records. Shortly after, he helped form The Boys Band. Within two years, the group was recording their debut album for Elektra/Asylum Records at CARIBOU RANCH in Nederland, Colorado. The album yielded the single, “Runner” which was the first music video for MTV produced in Nashville in 1982, and “Please Don’t Stop Me Baby,” which landed in Billboard’s Hot 100. The group disbanded in 1984.

In 1984, Rusty received an RIAA Gold Record for his songwriting contributions on The Oak Ridge Boys’ ‘Bobbie Sue’ album as well as the legendary Barry White. This recognition encouraged Rusty to begin writing songs with Marc Speer.

In 1985, Rusty and Marc Speer founded the group Golden Speer, which included Rusty's brother Chris Golden on lead vocals. Although their album was never released under Golden Speer, the label changed directions in 1986, leading Rusty and Chris to record under the name, The Goldens, releasing two singles as a newly formed duo. They moved to Capitol/SBK Records and released the album Rush for Gold in 1990. This critically acclaimed album produced three charting singles and videos: “Take Me Back to The Country,” “Keep The Faith,” and “Long Gone.”

Rusty had a ‘change of heart’ after a quadruple bypass and devoted his writing back to his gospel roots. That change garnered him several #1 Southern Gospel songs, and two Song of the Year awards for “What Salvation’s Done for Me” by The Booth Brothers, and “I Want to Thank You” by Karen Peck & New River.  

In March of 2020, Rusty and Chris, along with William Lee began working on a vision for a family band called William Lee Golden and The Goldens. They recorded and released 34 songs from 2020 to 2021 and were joined by brother Craig, nieces Elizabeth and Rebekah and nephew Elijah making the group a true three-generation family band. They traveled the country performing songs from their most recent three albums—Country Roads: Vintage Country Classics, Old Country Church Gospel and Southern Accents: Pop & Country Rock. The family performed together several times on the world-famous Grand Ole Opry. In 2023, Rusty stepped on the Opry stage solo to be recognized for his individual gifts as a musician when he was awarded Keyboard Player of The Year by the Josie Music Awards.

In addition to his lengthy list of accolades as a songwriter and musician, Rusty Golden will be remembered as a charismatic entertainer, who could hold an audience in the palm of his hand with his energetic live performances. Throughout his life, he always had a tremendous connection with audiences whether he was on the Opry stage or in recent years performing regular gigs in Bahrain, where he earned a reputation as a riveting performer whose talents transcended any borders. But most of all, Rusty will be remembered as one of those Nashville cats everyone wanted to play music with, co-write a song, or just hang out. Rusty could always be counted on to elevate any experience with his talent, wit, and charm.

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, along with many nieces, nephews, other extended family members, close friends, and fans.

Funeral/memorial details are pending and will be made available at williamleegoldenandthegoldens.com and their Facebook page: facebook.com/WLGandTheGoldens