Everything Music. Everything News. Everything live.

Hayley Williams’ Grandfather Drops Long-Lost Debut Album Grand Man

Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com
Christian Bertrand / Shutterstock.com

In a remarkable turn of events resonating across the music industry, Rusty Williams, the grandfather of Paramore's lead singer Hayley Williams, is set to release his debut album *Grand Man* on Valentine’s Day, more than half a century after it was originally recorded. This astounding news, culminating from a blend of familial support and musical perseverance, marks a significant landmark in Rusty's long but mostly private musical journey. *Grand Man* was recorded in the 1970s yet remained unheard by the broader public until now, thanks to the inventive aid of contemporary artists and his own family.

Rusty Williams, now 78 years old, has always nurtured a deep passion for music, contributing both as a singer and instrumentalist throughout his lifetime. His talents were notably highlighted when he contributed to Hayley’s solo album *Petals for Armor* in 2020, where his voice and piano playing on the track “Crystal Clear” reminded listeners of his innate musicality. Despite these features, much of Rusty's musical repertoire remained hidden. Many assumed that the 1970s album was a myth until it was rediscovered by Frank Morris, Rusty’s long-time cooperation partner in music production. With Zac Farro of Paramore taking on the project through his label Congrats Records, Rusty’s songs from the past century are finally seeing the light of day.

Reflecting on this late yet welcomed release, Rusty remains humble about his legacy, acknowledging that while fame isn't on his horizon, the impact his music might have upon individuals would be reward enough. As he candidly puts it, “I don’t expect anything, and I’m too old to be famous,” showing his genuine yearning to inspire more than to bask in limelight. He expresses a simple desire for listeners to connect with the music and understand the emotions embedded within its lyrics.

This heartwarming story of a family rediscovering and valuing the art of its older generation sheds light on how modern musicians can embrace the past to enrich the present. Hayley and her bandmates are following a similar trend seen recently when Lana Del Rey’s father, Rob Grant, released his debut album. It signifies a burgeoning respect and curiosity for “nepo daddies” and now, perhaps the rare occurrence of a “nepo grandpa,” where familial connections reveal hidden treasures.

Key Takeaways

Related Stories

Questions and Controversy about FireAid Funds

The FireAid fundraising initiative, designed to offer support to wildfire victims in Southern California, has come under intense scrutiny. Initially,…

Musician Ozzy Osbourne performs during half-time of the NFL game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Buffalo Bills at SoFi Stadium on September 08, 2022 in Inglewood, California Ozzy Osbourne performs during half-time of the NFL game between the Los Angeles Rams and the Buffalo Bills at SoFi Stadium, Inglewood, Los Angeles, California, USA - 08 Sep 2022

How To Livestream Ozzy’s Funeral on Wednesday July 30th

The legendary heavy metal icon, Ozzy Osbourne, is set to be honored with a grand farewell, marking his final journey…

David Gilmour To Release Live Album and IMAX Concert Film

David Gilmour, renowned for his roles as guitarist and vocalist for Pink Floyd, is set to release his latest concert…

Billy Joel live in concert, Hamburg, Germany 1990. // Billy Joel live in concert, Hamburg, Deutschland 1990. Billy Joel Live in Concert - 16 May 1990

Shots Fired: Billy Joel Calls White Album “Half Assed”

Renowned musician Billy Joel recently stirred debate with his candid remarks on The Beatles’ self-titled ninth studio album, commonly known…

Phil Collins Flatly Denies Hospice Rumors

Phil Collins, the legendary musician and former frontman of Genesis, has been the subject of swirling rumors regarding his health,…

Bad Company Tribute Album in the Works

The recently unveiled tribute album, *Can’t Get Enough: A Tribute to Bad Company*, heralds a musical homage to the legendary…

2025 Stray Cats Tour Announced

The Stray Cats, an iconic band renowned for their vibrant rockabilly tunes, are geared to ignite stages across America once…

Flying High Again: Fans Petition to Rename Airport after Ozzy

A fervent desire to honor the late Ozzy Osbourne, the iconic frontman of Black Sabbath and a seminal figure in…

Spinal Tap Sequel “The End Continues” Trailer Drops

The much-anticipated sequel to the 1984 cult classic mockumentary, “This Is Spinal Tap,” titled “Spinal Tap II: The End Continues,”…