Joe Bonsall, renowned tenor of The Oak Ridge Boys for over 50 years, died on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at the age of 76. His death, which occurred at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee, was due to complications from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), as confirmed by his publicist and the band’s social media accounts.
Bonsall had been battling ALS, commonly known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, which led him to retire from touring in January. The Oak Ridge Boys, initially a Southern gospel band, transitioned to country music in the late 1970s and became hugely successful. Bonsall joined the band in 1973 and played a crucial role in their evolution and success.
The Oak Ridge Boys achieved remarkable success in their career, with 17 singles reaching number one on Billboard’s Top Country Songs chart, including crossover hits like “Elvira” and “Bobbie Sue.” “Elvira” also climbed to No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1981. The band had three number-one albums on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart, with “Fancy Free” and “Bobbie Sue” making it to the top 20 on the all-genre Billboard 200.
Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum CEO Kyle Young acknowledged Bonsall’s significant contribution to the band, 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.”
In their illustrious career, The Oak Ridge Boys garnered numerous awards, including five Grammy Awards. Their hit “Elvira” won the award for Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. They also secured two CMA and four ACM Awards, among other honors. The band was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015, further solidifying their place in music history.
Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association, expressed her thoughts on Bonsall’s enduring impact: “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 music, Bonsall was also an accomplished author, having penned 11 books. His latest, a memoir titled “I See Myself,” is scheduled for publication in November. His writings often mirrored his profound connection to his faith and experiences with The Oak Ridge Boys.
Bonsall leaves behind his wife, Mary Ann; daughters, Jennifer and Sabrina; granddaughter, Breanne; grandson, Luke; great-grandsons, Chance and Grey; and a sister, Nancy. His parents, Joseph S. Bonsall Sr. and Lillie Bonsall, predeceased him.
The music community mourns the loss of Bonsall. His colleagues and fans alike honor his legacy, appreciating the joy and comfort his music brought to many. “He certainly lightened our cares every time he sang,” Young said, summarizing the impact Bonsall had on audiences.
Bonsall did not want a funeral but requested that donations be made to The ALS Association or the Vanderbilt Medical Center ALS and Neuroscience Research Center, emphasizing his commitment to raising awareness and supporting research for the disease that led to his demise.
The passing of Bonsall comes just eight days after the death of musician, songwriter, and son of The Oak Ridge Boys member William Lee Golden, William “Rusty” Golden, who died at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee, at 65.
