Merrilee Rush
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Merrilee Rush (née Gunst; January 26, 1944)[1] is an American singer, best known for her recording of the song "Angel of the Morning", a top-10 hit which earned her a Grammy nomination for female vocalist of the year in 1968.[2][3]

Key Information

Early life and career

[edit]

Rush was born in Seattle, Washington to Reuben and Edith Gunst.[1] Her father was a homebuilder.[1] She grew up in north Seattle, and studied classical piano from a young age.[4] In 1960, she auditioned and became the singer for the Amazing Aztecs, a Seattle-area rock and roll band led by saxophone player Neil Rush, whom she would later marry. The two went on to form Merrilee and Her Men, doing mostly cover versions of pop hits, and then joined rhythm and blues group Tiny Tony and the Statics, whose regional hit "Hey Mrs. Jones", on the Bolo label, featured Rush's keyboard playing and vocals.[5]

Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts

[edit]
Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts in 1967

In 1965, the pair formed Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts, who soon became a popular act on the Pacific Northwest's teen dancehall circuit, touring throughout Washington and Oregon.[1] A member of the group's road crew also worked for Paul Revere & the Raiders, and through this connection, Rush was invited to be the opening act on the Raiders' tour of the southern United States in 1967. While in Memphis, Tennessee, Raiders lead vocalist Mark Lindsay introduced Rush to record producer Chips Moman.

"Angel of the Morning" was written and composed by the songwriter Chip Taylor. Rush's version was recorded at Moman's American Sound Studio in Memphis in early 1968, and was produced by Moman and Tommy Cogbill. Released by Bell Records, the song climbed to No. 7 in late June 1968 on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100 chart,[6] No. 1 in Canada,[7] and was a major hit in several other countries. The one millionth sale of this record was reported by the Recording Industry Association of America (R.I.A.A.) in 1970.[8] Although credited to "Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts", both the single and subsequent album (also called Angel of the Morning) were recorded using the same musicians who played on Elvis Presley's Memphis recordings.

"Angel of the Morning" garnered Rush a Grammy Award nomination for best Contemporary Pop Female Vocalist of the year. She was nominated along with Barbra Streisand ("Funny Girl"), Dionne Warwick ("Do You Know the Way to San Jose"), Aretha Franklin ("I Say a Little Prayer"), and Mary Hopkin ("Those Were the Days"). Warwick was the eventual winner.[9]

The song has been featured in the major motion pictures Jerry Maguire and Fingers.

Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts released one more single on Bell, "That Kind of Woman", in 1968. It reached No. 28 in Canada.[10]

Her next single titled "Reach Out" on AGP Records reached No. 89 in Canada.[11]

Television appearances

[edit]

Rush appeared on numerous television programs in the 1960s and 1970s, including American Bandstand, The Midnight Special (Episode 2 aired February 9, 1973), The Joey Bishop Show, Happening, The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour, The Everly Brothers Show, and Something Else hosted by John Byner. In 1984, she appeared as herself, performing the holiday favorite "White Christmas", in the syndicated Christmas special Scrooge's Rock and Roll Christmas, which starred Jack Elam as Ebenezer Scrooge. That program also featured holiday performances by Three Dog Night, Paul Revere & the Raiders, The Association, Bobby Goldsboro, Mike Love of The Beach Boys, Dean Torrence of Jan and Dean, and Mary MacGregor.

Solo career

[edit]

In 1969, now formally a solo artist, she released four more singles ("Reach Out", "Everyday Livin' Days", "Sign On for the Good Times", and "Angel on My Shoulder") on the Chips Moman-run Bell subsidiary, AGP Records. In 1971, she signed with Scepter Records and released one single, a cover of the Carole King song "Child of Mine". While that was Rush's lone release on Scepter, she cut several tracks for the label including a femme version of the Billy Joel song "She's Got a Way" ("He's Got a Way"). In 1976, Rush signed with United Artists Records, which released three singles: "Could It Be Love I Found Tonight", "Save Me" and "Rainstorm".[12] Her self-titled album for United Artists was released in 1977.[13]

Later career

[edit]
Rush in 2013

By the turn of the 21st century, Rush was living in the countryside near Seattle in a century-old farmhouse that was built by her grandfather. She continued to perform with her own band in rock and roll nostalgia shows across the country.

In September 2023, Rush was inducted into the California Music Hall of Fame and received The Carol Kaye Inspiration Award.

In 1989, the Northwest Area Musicians' Association (NAMA) honored Rush with membership in the NAMA Hall of Fame.

In 2003, Rush appeared in the PBS special At the Drive-In along with Jan Berry and Dean Torrence (of Jan and Dean), Fabian, Bobby Vee, Chris Montez, Dodie Stevens, and Matthew and Gunnar Nelson (the sons of Ricky Nelson).

Rush's Angel of the Morning album has been re-published on CD via the Rev-Ola record label. The re-issue includes the entire original 1968 LP, and it features the Top Ten title track and the follow-up single "That Kind of Woman", in addition to nine non-LP album singles and B-sides as bonus tracks. The bonus tracks include a psychedelic version of the Four Tops' "Reach Out" (an AGP label single release that reached No. 79 on the Billboard Hot 100), and a cover of Burt Bacharach's "What the World Needs Now Is Love", which was produced by Quincy Jones for the soundtrack album to the film Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice.

Personal life

[edit]

She is married to singer-songwriter and entertainer Billy Mac. Merrilee was a breeder of numerous champion Old English Sheepdogs for many decades. She and her husband have a livestream show on his YouTube channel, Billy Mac Songs.[14]

References

[edit]
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Merrilee Rush

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Merrilee Rush (born Merrilee Gunst; January 26, 1944) is an American singer and songwriter from Seattle, Washington, best known for her 1968 recording of "Angel of the Morning," a top-10 Billboard Hot 100 hit that earned her a Grammy nomination for Best Contemporary Pop Female Vocalist and became an enduring anthem of female empowerment.[1][2] Born to Reuben and Edith Gunst, Rush grew up in Seattle's North End and Lake Forest Park, where she studied classical piano for a decade before discovering her passion for rock 'n' roll and R&B through local radio stations like KJR and influences such as Elvis Presley, Bill Haley, and Northwest bands including The Wailers and The Frantics.[1][3] At age 13, she began performing in talent contests and USO shows, and by 16 in 1960, she joined her first band, The Amazing Aztecs, as lead vocalist, marking the start of her rise in the Pacific Northwest's vibrant teen dance and rock scene.[1][4] Rush's career gained momentum in the mid-1960s after marrying musician Neil Rush on July 1, 1963, and forming The Statics (later renamed Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts), which became one of the region's top acts and toured with Paul Revere & the Raiders in 1967.[1][5] Her breakthrough came in January 1968 when she recorded "Angel of the Morning," written by Chip Taylor, at American Sound Studio in Memphis, Tennessee; the single, released in February, climbed to No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 by May and stayed on the chart for 12 weeks, launching her solo career and leading to television appearances on shows like American Bandstand and The Johnny Cash Show.[2][1] Follow-up singles like "That Kind of Woman" (1968) and later tracks such as "Save Me" (1977) achieved moderate success, but none matched the impact of her signature hit, which has since appeared in films like Jerry Maguire (1996).[5][2] In her personal life, Rush gave birth to son Michael in 1964, divorced Neil in the early 1970s, and later married rhythm and blues musician Billy "Mac" McCarthy; the couple resides on a historic farm outside Redmond, Washington, where she has bred and shown Old English Sheepdogs since the late 1970s while occasionally performing at oldies revivals and benefits.[1][4] She was inducted into the Northwest Area Music Association (NAMA) Hall of Fame in 1989 and the California Music Hall of Fame in 2023, recognizing her as a pioneering figure in Seattle's rock 'n' roll history.[1][4]

Early life

Childhood and family background

Merrilee Rush was born Merrilee Gunst on January 26, 1944, in Seattle, Washington, to parents Reuben Gunst, a homebuilder, and Edith Gunst.[1] She grew up in a family of five children, including younger siblings Cheryl, Marsha, Laura, and Clayton, in Seattle's north end, where the household benefited from her father's profession, frequently moving into newly constructed homes he built, which provided a stable living environment.[1] Rush attended Lake Forest Park Elementary School during her early years and later Morgan Junior High School in the north Seattle area.[1] These schools shaped her foundational education in a suburban setting, reflecting the modest yet secure family life supported by her parents' efforts. At age 13, Rush demonstrated an early interest in community involvement by volunteering in United Service Organizations (USO) programs alongside friend Lynn Vrooman, showcasing her outgoing personality before pursuing other paths.[1]

Musical education and influences

Rush began her formal musical education at a young age, studying classical piano starting in elementary school in Lake Forest Park, Washington. She continued these lessons diligently for approximately 10 years, developing a strong foundation in technique through regular practice and instruction. This classical training provided her with the discipline and skills that would later inform her approach to popular music genres.[4][1] Growing up in Seattle during the late 1950s, Rush was increasingly exposed to the vibrant local rock 'n' roll and R&B scene through radio broadcasts and television shows like American Bandstand. Rhythm and blues held particular prominence in the Northwest at the time, drawing her away from classical repertoire toward more energetic popular styles. Key influences included artists such as Elvis Presley, Little Richard, and Tina Turner, whose powerful performances inspired her shift toward rock and soul-infused singing; she has cited Turner's ability to infuse pop tunes with an R&B feel as especially formative.[4][6] Her parents offered steady support for her piano studies, providing a stable environment that encouraged her musical pursuits amid this evolving interest. By around age 13 to 15, Rush began exploring her vocal talents through initial singing experiences, such as accompanying friends on piano at local talent contests and performing in USO shows for military audiences, as well as singing at teenage dances in Seattle venues like ballrooms and armories. These early outings marked her transition from instrumental focus to vocal performance, blending her classical background with the raw energy of the regional scene.[4][6][1]

Early career

Initial bands and local performances

Rush began her musical journey in the Seattle area by auditioning for the Amazing Aztecs, a rock and roll band based in Renton, in 1960 at the age of 16 while attending Shoreline High School.[1] She was selected as the lead singer by saxophonist Neil Rush, who would later become her husband in 1963, and initially contributed on piano before taking center stage vocally.[4] The band performed on the local teen dance circuit but disbanded shortly after due to internal disagreements over the spotlight.[1] Following the breakup, Rush formed her own group, Merrilee and Her Men, around 1961 with Neil Rush handling management under her parents' supervision.[1] The ensemble, notable for featuring a female lead in the male-dominated rock scene, focused on rhythm and blues covers and played gigs in nearby towns such as Everett, Mount Vernon, and Bellingham.[4] Her foundational piano training from childhood provided a strong base for these performances, enhancing her vocal delivery and stage presence.[7] By 1962, Rush and Neil joined Tiny Tony and the Statics, a Burien-based rhythm and blues outfit led by singer Anthony "Tiny Tony" Smith, where she played Hammond organ and contributed vocals.[1] The group achieved a regional hit with "Hey Mrs. Jones," released in July 1962 on the Seafair Bolo label, which featured dual vocals, Neil's saxophone, and received airplay on KZAM radio; they also covered tracks like "Harlem Shuffle" in 1963, highlighting Rush's smoky voice.[7] Performances included venues like the Peppermint Lounge West and the Century 21 World's Fair, but the rise of Beatlemania in the mid-1960s disrupted the Northwest R&B scene, compelling adaptations in style and ultimately leading to their departure in 1965.[4]

Regional breakthrough in the Pacific Northwest

In the early 1960s, Merrilee Rush expanded her performances beyond Seattle through her involvement with local bands such as the Amazing Aztecs and Tiny Tony and the Statics, taking the stage at venues across Washington state including Renton, Burien, the Spanish Castle Ballroom in Des Moines, and Parker's Ballroom in Seattle.[7][4] These gigs marked a shift from initial local appearances to a broader regional circuit that occasionally extended into Oregon cities like Portland and Salem, as well as other Washington locales such as Tacoma and Spokane, allowing her to reach audiences in the Pacific Northwest's burgeoning teen-oriented music scene.[1] Rush's integration into the Northwest music ecosystem was bolstered by networking with prominent emerging acts, including collaborations and shared bills with the Wailers and encounters with Paul Revere and the Raiders during performances in the mid-1960s.[1][4] This interconnected scene, centered around Seattle's vibrant club and dancehall circuit, helped solidify her presence among regional musicians and promoters. Local radio stations played a pivotal role in cultivating her fanbase, with outlets like Seattle's KJR and KZAM airing tracks from her early bands, including the Statics' 1962 single "Hey Mrs. Jones" on the Bolo label, which featured Rush's keyboard work and vocals.[7][4] Complementing this exposure, Rush built a dedicated following through high-energy shows at teen dances, skating rinks, and similar events, where her dynamic stage presence and soulful delivery drew crowds of young fans eager for live rhythm and blues performances.[1][4] As the British Invasion reshaped popular music after 1964, Rush transitioned from the R&B roots of her work with the Statics—emphasizing covers of hits like "Harlem Shuffle"—toward incorporating rock and pop elements in her sets, reflecting the influx of British bands like the Beatles and influencing the Northwest's shift to more upbeat, guitar-driven sounds.[1][7] This evolution positioned her for greater regional acclaim just before forming Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts in 1965.[4]

Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts

Band formation and lineup

Merrilee Rush formed the band Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts in Seattle, Washington, in 1965, during the height of Beatlemania, after she and her husband Neil Rush departed from their previous group, the Statics.[1] The formation marked a shift toward a more polished rock sound, building on Rush's earlier experiences in R&B-oriented bands like the Amazing Aztecs and Merrilee and Her Men, which had honed her skills as a lead vocalist in the Pacific Northwest scene.[7] This evolution allowed the group to appeal to the region's burgeoning teen dancehall circuit with high-energy performances.[1] The original lineup consisted of five core members: Merrilee Rush on vocals and keyboards, Neil Rush on saxophone, Vern Kjellberg (also known as Joey Newman) on lead guitar, Terry Gregg on bass, and Ed Leckenby on drums.[7] Former Static Dave Erickson served as the band's manager, providing continuity from their prior regional work.[1] The group experienced rotations among bassists and drummers over time, including figures like Karl Peters and Peter Sach on percussion, reflecting the fluid nature of Seattle's local music scene in the mid-1960s.[8] The band's name, "Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts," was inspired by the British Invasion's influence, emphasizing Rush's prominent role as a female frontwoman while suggesting a dynamic, turning-point energy in their music.[1] They rehearsed extensively in Seattle venues before debuting publicly, focusing on tight arrangements of rock and pop covers to establish their high-energy branding.[9] Early gigs took place in local clubs and events like the Seattle Center Coliseum's Spring Spectacular on April 30, 1965, where they quickly gained traction among Northwest audiences.[1]

Key releases and tours

Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts issued several singles on small independent labels during 1966 and 1967, establishing their presence in the Pacific Northwest music scene. Notable releases included "Lovers Never Say Goodbye," a cover of the Flamingos' 1959 doo-wop hit, and "How's the Weather on Your Street," an original pop-rock track that reflected the era's shift toward more experimental sounds, both appearing on the Seattle-based Merrilin Records. These efforts, along with earlier cuts like "Party Song" on RU-RO Records, received modest but consistent radio airplay on regional stations such as KJR, helping to build a dedicated local following without achieving broader national breakthrough.[7][1] The band's live performances drove their regional popularity, with frequent sold-out shows at key venues including the Spanish Castle Ballroom in Des Moines, Washington, and the Lake Hills Roller Rink in Bellevue, where they drew enthusiastic teen crowds as a premier dance attraction. Hyped by influential DJ Pat O'Day on KJR, their high-energy sets solidified their status as a staple of the Northwest's thriving rock 'n' roll circuit, often outpacing contemporaries in attendance and fan engagement.[1] In 1967, Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts expanded their scope by serving as the opening act for Paul Revere & the Raiders on a major tour across the southern United States, performing in larger arenas and theaters that marked a step up from their usual one-nighters. This exposure, arranged through connections in the Portland-based Raiders' network, introduced them to broader audiences and logistical demands beyond the Pacific Northwest.[2][1][7] The tour schedule, combined with ongoing regional gigs in towns like Tacoma, Olympia, Yakima, and Spokane, created significant travel challenges, including long drives and tight itineraries that strained resources and led to frequent lineup turnover. Under manager Neil Rush's direction, the band navigated these pressures, with the core group's cohesion—rooted in Merrilee's powerful vocals and the ensemble's tight instrumentation—proving essential to maintaining their dynamic stage presence amid the rigors of constant mobility.[1]

Solo breakthrough

Recording "Angel of the Morning"

In 1968, Merrilee Rush signed with Bell Records, transitioning from her work with the Turnabouts to pursue solo opportunities, which allowed her to record "Angel of the Morning," a song written by Chip Taylor in 1966.[10][2] Rush first encountered the track through a demo pitched by a contact at April-Blackwood Publishing during a 1967 tour with Paul Revere & the Raiders; the rough recording featured only Taylor's voice and guitar, which she later described as "terrible," but she was immediately drawn to its lyrics for their progressive themes of female empowerment and emotional vulnerability.[6][2] She chose to record it despite prior unreleased versions by artists like Evie Sands, believing its message about a one-night stand without regret would connect deeply with audiences.[2] The recording took place in January 1968 at American Sound Studio in Memphis, Tennessee, produced by Chips Moman and Tommy Cogbill, who crafted a lush, orchestral arrangement emphasizing Rush's breathy, emotive vocals influenced by her dynamic style honed with the Turnabouts.[11][6] Session musicians from the renowned Memphis Boys contributed to the track's distinctive sound, including Reggie Young on guitar and electric sitar for an ethereal texture, Bobby Wood on keyboards, Gene Chrisman on drums, and Mike Leech on bass; Mark James, who wrote the B-side "Reap What You Sow," also participated on piano.[6] Rush recalled the studio process as a departure from live performances, relying on the musicians' expertise to build layers from the simple demo without immediate audience feedback, resulting in a sweeping ballad that highlighted swelling strings and a subtle, haunting rhythm.[6] The single was released by Bell Records in February 1968, though it gained initial traction later that spring.[2][10] Promotion efforts were initially lackluster from the label, prompting manager Jerry Williams to hire independent promoters, who targeted key markets like St. Louis, where a large order helped propel radio play and build momentum over several months.[6][2] Rush continued performing weekend gigs during this period to support the rollout, allowing the song to organically reach disc jockeys and listeners.[2]

Chart success and cultural impact

"Angel of the Morning" achieved significant commercial success upon its release in 1968, peaking at No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart and remaining on the list for 16 weeks.[12] In Canada, the single reached No. 1, earning a Gold Record certification from the Recording Industry Association of Canada.[11] By 1970, sales had exceeded 1 million copies in the United States, as reported by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA).[11] The track's performance garnered critical recognition, including a Grammy nomination for Merrilee Rush in the category of Best Contemporary-Pop Vocal Performance, Female, at the 11th Annual Grammy Awards in 1969.[13] This accolade highlighted the song's vocal and production quality, stemming from its recording at American Sound Studio in Memphis with producers Chips Moman and Tommy Cogbill.[11] Culturally, "Angel of the Morning" resonated as an anthem of female empowerment during the late 1960s, its lyrics portraying a woman's unapologetic assertion of autonomy in a romantic encounter, which was seen as revolutionary for the era.[11] The song's widespread radio play on national stations propelled its breakthrough, introducing Rush to a broad audience beyond the Pacific Northwest.[6] Early covers, such as those by P.P. Arnold in June 1968 and Skeeter Davis in 1969, further amplified its reach and enduring appeal.[14]

Solo career

Label transitions and albums

Following the breakthrough success of "Angel of the Morning," Rush secured subsequent recording contracts that marked her evolution as a solo artist.[1] Her debut solo album, Angel of the Morning, released in 1968 on Bell Records, showcased a mix of original material and covers, with the title track as the centerpiece alongside songs like "Sandcastles," "Billy Sunshine," "Handy," and Scott McKenzie's "San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)." The full tracklist included:
  1. "It's Worth It All"
  2. "Sandcastles"
  3. "Billy Sunshine"
  4. "Handy"
  5. "San Francisco (Be Sure to Wear Flowers in Your Hair)"
  6. "Angel of the Morning"
  7. "That Kind of Woman"
  8. "Working Girl"
  9. "Observation From Flight 285"
  10. "Hush"
  11. "Do Unto Others"
  12. "Sunshine & Roses."
    In 2006, the album was reissued on CD by Rev-Ola Records as Angel of the Morning: The Complete Bell Recordings, expanding to include the original LP plus nine bonus tracks of non-LP singles, such as "Reach Out (I'll Be There)," "Your Loving Eyes Are Blind," and a cover of "What the World Needs Now Is Love."[15][16]
By 1969, Rush had transitioned to AGP Records, a Bell subsidiary, where she focused on singles rather than full albums, reflecting the label's emphasis on targeted releases amid her ongoing solo development. In 1971, she moved to Scepter Records for additional single work, though no album materialized there. These shifts were part of broader industry dynamics, but Rush encountered significant hurdles, including restrictive contracts that curtailed her financial gains and limited creative input or promotional support from labels.[1][17][2] Rush's next major label deal came in 1976 with United Artists Records, culminating in her self-titled sophomore album Merrilee Rush the following year. Produced by Denny Diante, the LP featured a blend of contemporary pop and ballads, including standout tracks like "Save Me," "A Fool in Love," "Love Birds," and "Could It Be Love I Found Tonight," which highlighted her maturing vocal style and song selection.[18][19]

Additional singles and collaborations

Following the breakthrough of "Angel of the Morning," Merrilee Rush continued her solo career with a series of singles that highlighted her pop sensibilities and willingness to experiment with covers and original material. In 1968, she released "That Kind of Woman" on Bell Records, a track co-written by Donna Weiss and Mary Unobsky that addressed themes of romantic independence and self-awareness. The single peaked at number 76 on the Billboard Hot 100 and number 40 on the Cash Box Top 100, buoyed by promotional radio campaigns and live performances that capitalized on her rising profile.[20][21] The following year, Rush ventured into psychedelic territory with "Reach Out," a reimagined version of the Four Tops' "Reach Out I'll Be There" issued on AGP Records. Featuring heavy orchestration and echoing vocals, the song peaked at number 89 on the Billboard Hot 100, while its B-side "Love Street"—a cover of the Doors' track—explored introspective urban romance and nocturnal wanderings. Promotion emphasized her shift toward bolder arrangements, including targeted airplay on progressive radio stations to appeal to the late-1960s counterculture audience.[22][23] Into the 1970s, Rush's releases grew more eclectic, with singles like "Angel on My Shoulder" in 1970 on AGP Records delving into spiritual resilience and personal protection through metaphorical lyrics about unseen guardians. Similarly, "Child of Mine" from 1971 on Scepter Records touched on parental love and legacy, paired with the B-side "Lullaby for Tomorrow," a soothing ballad evoking dreams of brighter futures amid social change. These tracks, often serving as album lead-ins, achieved modest airplay but underscored her transition to softer, reflective folk-pop sounds.[24][25] Rush also engaged in notable collaborations during this period, contributing vocals to "What the World Needs Now Is Love" for the 1969 soundtrack of Bob & Carol & Ted & Alice, produced by Quincy Jones and infused with jazz-funk undertones to complement the film's themes of modern relationships. Later in the decade, she joined Northwest musicians including Danny O'Keefe for the 1974 all-star benefit single "Give Just a Little Bit More," a communal plea for compassion that highlighted regional solidarity in music production.[1]

Media appearances

Television performances

Merrilee Rush made her most prominent television appearance on American Bandstand on August 3, 1968, where she performed her breakthrough hit "Angel of the Morning" alongside "That Kind of Woman," captivating audiences with her emotive delivery and stage presence during the show's lip-sync format.[26][27] This performance, hosted by Dick Clark, showcased Rush's vocal style to a national teenage audience, helping to propel the single's chart climb to number seven on the Billboard Hot 100.[26] In 1973, Rush featured on The Midnight Special, episode aired February 9, hosted by Johnny Rivers, performing a set with her band that included "Start Again" and "Comfort and Please You," highlighting her evolving rock-oriented sound amid guests like Steely Dan and The Spinners.[28][29] The live format allowed for a fuller band arrangement, emphasizing her dynamic interaction with musicians and contributing to renewed interest in her catalog during the early 1970s.[28] Throughout the 1970s, Rush appeared on several variety shows, including The Glen Campbell Goodtime Hour in 1969, where she shared the stage with host Glen Campbell and guests like Bill Medley, delivering performances that blended country-rock elements; The Johnny Cash Show in 1969, aligning her folk-infused style with Cash's ensemble; and The Joey Bishop Show on December 3, 1969, an early late-night spot that exposed her to broader adult viewers. These outings, managed through the William Morris Agency's focus on television promotion, often involved quick rehearsals to adapt her live energy to broadcast constraints, with positive audience feedback noted in contemporary reviews for her warm, engaging persona.[2] Such appearances, tied to her hit singles like "Angel of the Morning," significantly boosted single and album sales by reaching millions of households and reinforcing her status as a versatile pop-rock artist.[2]

Other media and specials

In 1984, Merrilee Rush participated in the syndicated television special Scrooge's Rock 'N' Roll Christmas, a musical adaptation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol featuring classic rock performers from previous decades.[30] She performed the holiday standard "White Christmas" alongside artists such as Three Dog Night and Paul Revere & the Raiders, contributing to the program's blend of seasonal themes with nostalgic rock elements. This appearance highlighted Rush's enduring appeal as a 1960s and 1970s icon, leveraging her smooth vocal style to evoke the era's pop sensibilities in a festive context.[31] Nearly two decades later, Rush appeared in the 2003 PBS special At the Drive-In, a concert and interview program celebrating the surf and rock 'n' roll music associated with drive-in theaters.[32] Hosted by Fabian, the event included performances and discussions with Rush about her career trajectory, from her Seattle roots to the breakthrough success of "Angel of the Morning," shared alongside contemporaries like Jan Berry, Dean Torrence, and Bobby Vee.[33] Her segment featured renditions of her hits, underscoring her role in the nostalgic revival of mid-20th-century American pop culture.[34] These specials exemplified Rush's nostalgia appeal by positioning her within curated retrospectives that drew on her established hits to connect with audiences reminiscing about earlier decades of rock and pop music. While her primary media footprint in the 1970s and 1980s centered on television performances, such themed programs extended her visibility into holiday and documentary formats, reinforcing her legacy without venturing into feature films or extensive radio features during that period.[1]

Later career

Awards and honors

Rush's breakthrough hit "Angel of the Morning" earned her a nomination for Best Contemporary-Pop Vocal Performance, Female, at the 11th Annual Grammy Awards in 1968.[11] In recognition of her contributions to the regional music scene, Rush was inducted into the Northwest Area Music Association (NAMA) Hall of Fame in 1989.[1] In September 2023, she was inducted into the California Music Hall of Fame during its annual ceremony in Temecula, California, where she also received the Carol Kaye Inspiration Award. This award, named after the trailblazing session bassist and guitarist Carol Kaye—one of the most recorded musicians in history—honors artists whose work has inspired and influenced subsequent generations in the music industry.[35]

Recent activities and performances

In the 2020s, Merrilee Rush has maintained an active presence in nostalgia-driven concerts and cruises, capitalizing on her enduring legacy as a performer of classic rock and pop hits. She performed on the Malt Shop Memories Cruise, a themed voyage featuring 1950s and 1960s artists, which sailed from Fort Lauderdale to Cozumel and Costa Maya aboard the Holland America Line's Eurodam from November 2 to 9, 2025.[36] This booking followed her participation in similar events, including an Alaska cruise in September 2025, highlighting her continued appeal in live entertainment settings focused on retro music revivals.[37] Rush has also embraced digital platforms for engaging fans through performances and covers. Alongside her husband, Billy Mac, she contributes to the YouTube channel "Billy Mac Songs," which has hosted livestreams and recorded covers since the early 2010s, featuring collaborations such as their 2011 rendition of "Christmas in Caracas" performed at Safeco Field.[38] These sessions, often paused due to scheduling but resuming periodically, allow Rush to share intimate acoustic interpretations of her catalog and holiday tunes, fostering a direct connection with audiences amid evolving music consumption trends.[37] On April 30, 2025, Rush participated in an in-depth interview where she reflected on her career trajectory, from her Seattle roots and early band experiences to the Grammy-nominated success of "Angel of the Morning" and her shift toward breeding Old English Sheepdogs in later years.[37] In the discussion, she emphasized her ongoing passion for live music, noting influences like Tina Turner and her classical piano background, while expressing gratitude for sustained opportunities to perform.[37] Post-2023, Rush has appeared at select hall of fame-related events and Seattle-area shows, including a May 17, 2025, performance of "Angel of the Morning" at the Count Basie Center for the Arts in Red Bank, New Jersey, tied to music heritage celebrations.[39] Locally, she has continued regional engagements with Billy Mac, such as appearances at Washington venues like Tulalip Resort Casino, reinforcing her ties to the Pacific Northwest music scene.[40] Additional 2025 outings include a concert on May 31 at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts in California, showcasing her vocal prowess in intimate theater settings.[41]

Personal life

Marriages and family

Merrilee Rush married musician Neil Rush on July 1, 1963, after meeting as bandmates in the Seattle music scene.[1] The couple had one child, son Michael, born the following year in 1964.[1] Their marriage ended in divorce in 1977.[1] Rush later married singer-songwriter and entertainer Billy Mac McCarthy, whom she met through connections in the music industry during her touring years.[4] The couple wed in 1985 and have maintained a partnership that blends their shared musical interests.[42] Throughout her early career, Rush balanced family life with demanding tours by relying on her parents, who cared for Michael during performances and even served as informal roadies.[4] She has publicly credited her family's support, particularly her parents' involvement, as essential to sustaining her professional commitments while raising her son.[4] Rush and McCarthy reside near Seattle, where her family roots remain a key anchor.[5]

Health challenges and interests

Rush has maintained a lifelong passion for breeding and showing Old English Sheepdogs, a hobby she has pursued for over 60 years on her property in Redmond, Washington.[4][2] She has bred numerous champions and is listed as a breeder in good standing with the Old English Sheepdog Club of Greater Seattle.[43] She resides on a rural property near Seattle, Washington, in Redmond, where she has lived for decades, maintaining strong ties to her Seattle hometown where she was born and raised.[1][44] On June 24, 2025, Rush suffered a serious fall in a parking lot, resulting in a traumatic brain injury, including a subdural hematoma that required four brain surgeries.[45][46] Her husband, Billy Mac, has provided steadfast support throughout her recovery. The injury led to multiple hospital stays and rehabilitation, with a prognosis of 3-6 months for continued home treatment. As of November 2025, she has been discharged and is resting at home while receiving ongoing health care.[46][47] A GoFundMe campaign launched on September 10, 2025, by family friends has garnered widespread community support from fans worldwide to aid her medical and recovery costs.[46] Rush and her family have publicly expressed profound gratitude for the outpouring of love, donations, and well-wishes, noting that she is overwhelmed but encouraged by the global response.[48][46]

References

  1. Rush, Merrilee (b. 1944) - HistoryLink.org
  2. Gary James' Interview With Merrilee Rush - classicbands.com
  3. Book Excerpt: "Angel of the Morning" Singer Merrilee Rush Recalls ...
  4. Merrilee Rush: Seattle's homegrown rock 'n' roll sweetheart
  5. Merrilee Rush - Alabama Record Collectors Association
  6. Seattle's Merrilee Rush Looks Back at Her Hit "Angel of the Morning"
  7. Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts - Way Back Attack
  8. Merrilee Rush and the Turnabouts - BadCatRecords
  9. Merrilee and the Turnabouts - Seattle (1965 - 1968)
  10. Behind the Song: Merrilee Rush on "Angel of the Morning" by Chip ...
  11. "Angel of the Morning," first international pop-radio hit by Seattle
  12. Week of June 29, 1968 - Billboard Hot 100™
  13. https://www.grammy.com/artists/merrilee-rush/14074
  14. Angel of the Morning by Merrilee Rush & The Turnabouts
  15. Angel of the Morning - Merrilee Rush | Album - AllMusic
  16. None
  17. Merrilee Rush
  18. Merrilee Rush | Album | AllMusic
  19. Merrilee Rush - Merrilee Rush
  20. 1968 HITS ARCHIVE: That Kind Of Woman - Merrilee Rush (mono)
  21. https://www.discogs.com/master/778082-Merrilee-Rush-That-Kind-Of-Woman
  22. Merrilee Rush had 4 Hot 100 hits and only "Angel Of The - Facebook
  23. https://www.discogs.com/release/7063931-Merrilee-Rush-Reach-Out-Love-Street
  24. Angel On My Shoulder Merrilee Rush "Rare" {Stereo} 1970 - YouTube
  25. Merrilee Rush Discography - USA - 45cat
  26. "American Bandstand" Episode #11.45 (TV Episode 1968) - IMDb
  27. June 22, 1968, Merilee Rush sings "Angel of the Morning ... - YouTube
  28. Albert Hammond; Spinners; Merilee Rush; Steely Dan (TV Episode ...
  29. https://www.lightscamerabackbeat.com/search.php?artist=Merrilee%20Rush
  30. Scrooge's Rock 'N' Roll Christmas (TV Movie 1984) - IMDb
  31. Scrooge's Rock 'n' Roll Christmas (1984) - The EOFFTV Review
  32. At the Drive-in (TV Special 2003) - IMDb
  33. At the Drive-In - Citizendium
  34. AT THE DRIVE-IN DVD Jan & Dean's Farewell Concert Rare Out Of ...
  35. Valley News - September 8, 2023 by Village News, Inc. - Issuu
  36. Merrilee Rush | Maltshop Memories Cruise
  37. Merrilee Rush Interview (4/30/25) - YouTube
  38. Christmas in Caracas sung by Billy Mac and Merrilee Rush - YouTube
  39. Merrilee Rush - Angel of the Morning - YouTube
  40. An excerpt from Merrilee Rush singing "I Never Was That Kind Of ...
  41. Merrilee Rush Concert 5/31/2025 part 4 - YouTube
  42. 35 years ago today I married Prince Charming. Thank you Billy Mac ...
  43. Find an OES / Breeder Referral | OESCGS
  44. Merilee Rush McCarthy | NE Redmond Fall City Rd, Redmond, WA
  45. The Weekend Stream: September 27, 2025 - The Second Disc
  46. Help Merrilee Rush Heal from Brain Injury - GoFundMe
  47. Merrilee Rush - Facebook
  48. Merrilee Rush - Facebook
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