On Tuesday, July 9, 2024, Joe Bonsall, known for his tenor vocals in The Oak Ridge Boys for over 50 years, died at the age of 76. His publicist and the band’s social media channels confirmed his death, which occurred at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee, due to Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) complications.
Bonsall’s struggle with ALS, also referred to as Lou Gehrig’s disease, resulted in his departure from touring earlier this year.
Originally a Southern gospel group, The Oak Ridge Boys transitioned into country music in the late 1970s, gaining significant popularity. Bonsall joined the group in 1973, playing a crucial role in its development and success.
Throughout their career, The Oak Ridge Boys achieved remarkable achievements, securing 17 number-one singles on the Billboard Top Country Songs chart. Notable crossover hits include “Elvira” and “Bobbie Sue,” with “Elvira” securing the No. 5 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1981. The group also had three number-one albums on the Billboard Top Country Albums chart, with both “Fancy Free” and “Bobbie Sue” making it into the top 20 on the all-genre Billboard 200.
Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, acknowledged Bonsall’s significant contributions, stating, “For five decades, Joe Bonsall was the driving force behind the Oak Ridge Boys. His clear and high tenor voice and his cheerful personality consistently brought a burst of energy, instantly engaging audiences and inviting them to relax and enjoy.”
The Oak Ridge Boys received numerous awards throughout their career, including five Grammy Awards, with their hit “Elvira” winning Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. The group also took home two CMA and four ACM Awards, among other recognitions. The Country Music Hall of Fame inducted the group in 2015, further solidifying their position in the music industry.
Country Music Association CEO, Sarah Trahern, reflected on Bonsall’s impact, stating, “When I think of the Oak Ridge Boys and their place in country music history, the image of Joe with his huge smile and boundless energy comes to mind so clearly. His dedication to helping others and transforming country music into a global phenomenon will always be remembered.”
In addition to his musical talent, Bonsall authored 11 books, including a memoir titled “I See Myself,” slated for release in November. His writing often encapsulated his profound connection to faith and his experiences with The Oak Ridge Boys.
Bonsall is survived by his wife, Mary Ann, daughters Jennifer and Sabrina, granddaughter Breanne, grandson Luke, great-grandsons Chance and Grey, and sister Nancy. His parents, Joseph S. Bonsall Sr. and Lillie Bonsall, predeceased him.
Music enthusiasts and colleagues alike mourn Bonsall’s passing while celebrating his legacy. “He certainly lightened our cares every time he sang,” Young noted, encapsulating the joy Bonsall’s music brought to many.
Bonsall did not want a funeral but asked that donations be made to The ALS Association or the Vanderbilt Medical Center ALS and Neuroscience Research Center. This final wish reflects his enduring dedication to raising awareness and supporting research for the disease that ultimately claimed his life.
Bonsall’s death occurred just eight days after the passing of William “Rusty” Golden, a musician, songwriter, and the son of The Oak Ridge Boys member William Lee Golden. Rusty Golden passed away at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee, at the age of 65.
