Rusty Young

Rusty Young (1942-2021) was an influential American musician primarily known for his work as a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist in the genre of country rock. He gained prominence as a founding member of the band Poco, which formed in 1968 and was pivotal in blending rock with country influences, helping to shape the sound of the genre during the 1970s. Young was renowned for his innovative pedal steel guitar playing, which became a signature element of Poco's sound. Some of the band’s notable works include the albums "Pickin' Up the Pieces" (1969), "Crazy Eyes" (1973), and "Legend" (1978), featuring hits like "Heart of the Night" and "Crazy Love." Beyond Poco, Young also released solo albums, such as "Waitin' for the Sun" (1972) and "The Last Goodbye" (2001), showcasing his songwriting and melodic sensibilities. His contributions to music extended to collaborations with artists like Stephen Stills and Linda Ronstadt. Rusty Young's legacy lies in his role in pioneering the country rock genre and influencing subsequent generations of musicians, particularly in the use of the pedal steel guitar in popular music.