Live from the Rust Belt

The Origin Story
In the shadow of lockdowns and global isolation, The Rust Belt was born in October 2020. Visionaries Michael Bilinski (PAGAN) and Vex X (of STARSKREAM) joined forces with a shared hunger for raw sound and authentic storytelling. It wasn’t long before they recruited vocalist Ryan Whyte Maloney, a standout finalist from Season 6 of The Voice, whose dynamic range and emotional depth brought instant soul to the project.

A Powerful Debut
Their first single, TIME, made waves the following month when it debuted on The Will Keenan Transmission (WCFA 101.5 FM). The accompanying music video not only captivated fans—it also won awards for its gritty storytelling and visual impact. The band wasn’t just a product of lockdown boredom; it was a movement in motion.

Completing the Lineup
By August 2021, guitarist Bill Lloyd (EDIT/ERASE) joined the fold, adding layers of sonic aggression and artistry that gave The Rust Belt its signature texture. With all members in place, the band quickly gained traction for their genre-blending style, equal parts industrial grit and melodic soul.

A Heartbreaking Loss
In January 2025, tragedy struck. Ryan Whyte Maloney passed away suddenly following a solo performance in Las Vegas. His voice, presence, and spirit had become foundational to the band’s identity. The loss was devastating—not just to the band, but to the fans and community who had witnessed his rising star.

Choosing to Continue
Despite the heartbreak, Michael, Vex, and Bill made the difficult yet powerful decision to move forward. Not as a replacement for Ryan—but in reverence to him. Their journey became not just about making music, but about preserving a legacy and giving new life to what Ryan helped build.

A New Chapter in Sound
Now back in the studio, The Rust Belt is working on a new album—a testament to rebirth, resilience, and remembrance. The project features a special guest appearance from another Voice alum, the legendary Snoop Dogg. This collaboration marks a bold new evolution, blending alternative rock with hip-hop and soul in a way only The Rust Belt can deliver.

More Than Music—A Movement
Live from the Rust Belt isn’t just a headline—it’s a declaration. A reminder that from forgotten cities and personal grief can rise powerful art. Through every riff, lyric, and visual, The Rust Belt is breathing new life into the American underground. Their story is not one of survival—it’s one of defiant creation.

Instagram: @therustbeltband
Photo Credits: Michael Bilinski, Michelle LaBrake, Augustine Aichele