Joe Bonsall, longtime member of the legendary country music singing quartet The Oak Ridge Boys, died Tuesday from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). He was 76.
Musician Joe Bonsall of The Oak Ridge Boys performs on stage at Pala Casino Resort and Spa on February 17, 2017 in Pala, California.
Daniel Knighton/Getty Images
“Joe loved to sing,” read a statement on Bonsall’s official website, announcing his passing. “He loved to read. He loved to write. He loved to play banjo. He loved working on the farm. And he loved the Philadelphia Phillies. But Jesus and his family always came first—and we will see him again on the Promised Day.”
On January 3, 2024, Bonsall, born Joseph S. Bonsall Jr., announced his retirement from The Oak Ridge Boys ongoing Farewell Tour due to increasing health issues and immobility.
“Many of you know I have been battling a slow onset (over 4 years now) of a neuromuscular disorder. I am now to a point that walking is impossible so I have basically retired from the road. It has just gotten too difficult,” Joe shared in a statement on the social platform X.
“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,” he continued. “I will never forget and for those of you who have been constantly holding me up in prayer I thank you and ask for you to keep on praying.”
Country band Oak Ridge Boys perform onstage at the Poplar Creek Music Theater, Hoffmann Estates, Illinois, August 21, 1984.
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Bonsall joined The Oak Ridge Boys in 1973, singing tenor. The group’s five-decade-plus career produced over 30 top-five country hits, nearly half of which were chart-toppers, including “Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight,” “Bobbie Sue,” “American Made,” and their signature song, 1981’s RIAA-certified double-platinum hit “Elvira.”
The group, also comprised of Duane Allen, William Lee Golden and Richard Sterban, won five Grammy Awards and is a member of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Gospel Music Hall of Fame.
Bonsall is survived by his wife, two daughters, two grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.
Country music fans around the world are mourning the loss of Joe Bonsall, a mainstay of the legendary group The Oak Ridge Boys. Bonsall passed away at the age of 76, leaving behind a legacy of timeless music and unforgettable performances.
Born on May 18, 1948, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Bonsall joined The Oak Ridge Boys in 1973 and quickly became an integral part of the group’s signature four-part harmonies. Known for their hits such as “Elvira,” “Bobbie Sue,” and “American Made,” The Oak Ridge Boys have been a staple in the country music scene for over five decades.
Bonsall’s distinctive tenor voice and energetic stage presence helped propel the group to superstardom, earning them numerous awards and accolades over the years. In addition to their success in country music, The Oak Ridge Boys also crossed over into the mainstream pop charts with their infectious blend of country, gospel, and rock influences.
Throughout his career, Bonsall remained dedicated to his craft and his fans, always delivering heartfelt performances that resonated with audiences of all ages. His passion for music and his unwavering commitment to his bandmates made him a beloved figure in the country music community.
In addition to his musical talents, Bonsall was also a prolific writer, penning several books and articles about his experiences in the music industry. He was known for his wit, humor, and down-to-earth personality, endearing him to fans and colleagues alike.
As news of Bonsall’s passing spreads, tributes from fellow musicians, industry insiders, and fans have poured in, honoring his contributions to country music and celebrating his enduring legacy. His impact on the genre will be felt for generations to come, as his music continues to inspire and uplift audiences around the world.
Although Joe Bonsall may no longer be with us, his spirit lives on through the timeless music he created with The Oak Ridge Boys. His legacy as a country music mainstay will forever be etched in the hearts of those who were touched by his talent and passion for music. Rest in peace, Joe Bonsall – your music will live on forever.
