Expansion Records is delighted to announce the release of the mesmerising original single “Slow Rider” by Frank “Rusty” Hamilton. Out 21 June, 2024, 2024
"Slow Rider" showcases Rusty Hamilton on harmonica and talk box/vocals, delivering melodic phrases and smooth licks over a throbbing backbeat and pulsating groove. The song is further enhanced by the sensual vocals of the female singer, conjuring the imagery of a leisurely horseback ride. The passion and intensity of "Slow Rider" embody the heartfelt emotion and soul invested in its creation, capturing a distinctive blend of rhythm and the most passionate of emotions.
Rusty Hamilton brings to music lovers his stunning new single "Slow Rider", featuring his signature harmonica and talk box, which reaffirms the multifaceted musician’s talent. Some may already be familiar to Hamiton’s solo work through his album "The Musician", a testament to his talents as a much in demand writer, producer, musician, and vocalist. He is now based in Las Vegas, Nevada,
Born and raised in Los Angeles, Rusty Hamilton's musical adventure began serendipitously at the age of seven. His stepfather discovered an abandoned organ in an alley, destined for the trash, and brought it home to their large family of nine siblings. The family restored the organ, turning it from discarded junk into a cherished source of joy. While Rusty's siblings soon lost interest, he embraced the instrument, practising diligently and beginning to write songs.
Entirely self-taught, Rusty quickly expanded his musical skills, learning to play a variety of instruments including drums, harmonica, saxophone, bass, and guitar. His talent shone early as he performed with the cornet and trombone during junior high school. Rusty continued to develop his craft throughout his school years, performing with his brothers and friends in a family band managed by his mother. They performed at talent shows, nightclubs, and even on television, cementing Rusty's love for the stage.
After high school, Rusty spent nearly a year performing solo in Japan, captivating audiences with his soulful melodies. Upon his return to Los Angeles, he furthered his musical education at the LACC Herb Alpert Music Center, studying music theory, composition, and harmony.
Rusty's musical journey has taken him around the globe, performing in Africa, Europe, South and North America, Japan, and Australia. His career is distinguished by collaborations with iconic artists across genres from soul to funk, rock to R&B, and jazz. As a musical director and producer, Rusty has worked with:
- Kool & The Gang: MD, toured, performed keyboards/vocals and harmonica
- KC & The Sunshine Band: MD, toured, performed keyboards/vocals and harmonica
- Jermaine Jackson: toured, performed key-bass
- Rebbie Jackson: songwriter (“Ready For Love”), toured, performed keyboard
- Bobby Womack: co-producer/songwriter (“Forever Love”, “How Can It Be”), MD, toured, performed keyboards/vocals and harmonica
- Barry White: songwriter (“I Wanna Do It Good To Ya”), toured, performed keyboards/vocals
- Eddie Murphy’s debut album “How Could It Be”: writer of the title track (Gold record)
- Finis Henderson: songwriter (“Skip To My Lou”)
- Ronnie Wood (Rolling Stones): songwriter/producer (“Too Bad Baby”)
- Babyface (Kenny Edmond): toured, performed keyboards
- Cheryl Lynn: MD, toured, performed keyboards
- Gloria Gaynor: MD, toured, performed keyboards
- Sister Sledge: MD, toured, performed keyboards
- Tavares: MD, toured, performed keyboards
- Philip Bailey, Ralph Johnson, Al McKay (EWF): studio recordings/keyboards
- Sly Stone: MD, toured, performed keyboards and harmonica
- Smokey Robinson: recordings/studio
- Dr. Dre: recordings/studio
- Taste of Honey: songwriter/recordings
- Patti LaBelle: performed key-bass live
- John Lee Hooker: performed harmonica live
- Billy Preston: performed keyboards live
- Ronnie Laws: performed keyboards live
- Papa John Creach (JSS): toured, performed keyboards/vocals and harmonica
Quotes:
“From the stance of a vocalist who has worked with Rusty Hamilton on several occasions, I'd say he is a genuine, spirited musician who means what he plays and plays a mean left-hand bass on keys. (Ha!) I always enjoy live performances with him. His heart for music will speak to yours.” Steph Payne, singer/songwriter and Emmy Award recipient.
NB:
- Written by: Rusty Hamilton and Michael Black
- Performed by: Rusty Hamilton featuring harmonica and talk-box
- Recorded and mixed by: Rusty Hamilton @Rustomatic Studio, Las Vegas, NV.
- Mastered by: Tiger Style Jones @Digital Image D. I. Studio LLC Las Vegas, NV
- Publishing: ASCAP Frank Rusty Hamilton, Rustomatic Music
- Photos by: Davin Hill