Country Music Hall of Famer Joe Bonsall, the 76-year-old tenor vocalist of the Oak Ridge Boys, has died from complications arising from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The news was announced on 9 July by representatives of both the artist and the group.
Bonsall had retired from touring with the Oak Ridge Boys six months prior, following a five-year struggle with ALS. The Philadelphia native, inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, Grand Ole Opry, Philadelphia Music Hall of Fame, and Gospel Music Hall of Fame, left an indelible mark on the music world.
Reflecting on his career, Bonsall expressed gratitude for his colleagues and supporters. “It has been a great 50 years and I am thankful to all the Oak Ridge Boys, band, crew and staff for the constant love and support shown to me through it all,” stated Bonsall in January.
Following Bonsall’s departure, bluegrass and gospel performer Ben James joined the remaining Oak Ridge Boys members—Duane Allen, William Lee Golden, and Richard Sterban. James was introduced to audiences in November 2022 during a special performance with the quartet at a show in which they shared the stage with Dailey & Vincent.
Joe Bonsall described his time as an Oak Ridge Boy—playing over 10,000 concerts worldwide—as an “amazing phenomenon” that grew into a celebrated career spanning decades. He was the 30th of 35 total members since the group’s inception in 1947.
Originally a Southern gospel quartet, the Oak Ridge Boys shifted towards a more mainstream, pop-ready image in the mid-1970s. This transformation led to a series of 14 Top 10 singles on the Billboard Country charts, beginning with their 1977 hit “Y’all Come Back Saloon” and including tunes like “Elvira” and “American Made.” Their success included notable performances such as the 1978 “World’s Largest Indoor Country Music Show” televised by NBC.
Bonsall was not only a musician but also an author, writing 11 books over three decades. These included “The Molly Books,” a children’s series, and “GI Joe and Lillie,” which recounted his parents’ experiences during and after World War II. His forthcoming memoir, “I See Myself,” is set for release on 13 November 2024. The memoir promises to explore the contrasts and struggles of his life, from his working-class upbringing in Philadelphia to becoming a country music icon, and dealing with the challenges of ALS.
“There will be no funeral at Bonsall’s request,” notes the press statement. “Instead of flowers, donations can be made to The ALS Association or the Vanderbilt Medical Center ALS and Neuroscience Research Center.”
Joe Bonsall leaves behind a rich legacy marked by musical excellence, literary contributions, and his unwavering faith and ability to inspire others. His memoir is available for pre-order on Amazon.
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