ROCHESTER, N.Y. — Charles “Chuck” Brucato, a member of the Rochester Music Hall of Fame and a key figure in the local music scene, has passed away. His family announced his death on Facebook. News10NBC’s Declan Stablow spoke with Chuck’s family to learn more about his legacy.
Chuck, a Rochester native, was inducted into the Rochester Music Hall of Fame in 2016 as a member of The Rustix, a local R&B band. The band toured nationally and opened for legendary acts like The Jimi Hendrix Experience, The Rascals, and The Four Tops.
“His family was very musical. Everything was musical all the time,” said Chuck’s son, Joe Brucato. “I think that’s where he picked it up.”
The Rustix’s 1969 album “Bedlam” reached the Billboard Top 100. After the band broke up in the early 1970s, Chuck transitioned to advertising, where he became known for writing jingles for local businesses like Sea Breeze and Bill Gray’s.
“Come fly, come fly with me. Come fly, come ski,” said Joe, recalling one of his father’s jingles.
Joe shared that Chuck’s passion for music runs in the family. “We had a lot of fun. I’ll never be able to replace him,” Joe said. “No matter where I go in this world and sing on stage… I’ll look over and I think my mind will trick me into seeing him there.”
Despite the recent loss, Joe said the grief will fuel him to continue honoring his father’s legacy. “You have to use it to fuel your life. Honor the legacy of the person you love,” Joe said.
Chuck Brucato was known for his love of performing on stage, despite being private about his personal life, said Joe.