Joe Bonsall, the tenor voice of The Oak Ridge Boys for over five decades, passed away on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, due to complications from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). He was 76 years old. Bonsall died at his home in Hendersonville, Tennessee, as confirmed by his publicist and the group’s social media accounts.
Bonsall’s battle with ALS, also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, led to his retirement from touring in January. The Oak Ridge Boys, originally a Southern gospel group, transitioned to country music in the late 1970s and enjoyed immense success. Bonsall joined the group in 1973, becoming a key part of its evolution and success.
The Oak Ridge Boys achieved significant milestones in their career, landing 17 number-one singles on Billboard’s Top Country Songs chart, including crossover hits like “Elvira” and “Bobbie Sue.” Elvira reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1981. The group also had three number-one albums on Billboard’s Top Country Albums chart, with “Fancy Free” and “Bobbie Sue” breaking into the top 20 on the all-genre Billboard 200.
Bonsall’s contributions to the group were widely recognized. Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, said, “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 won numerous awards throughout their career, including five Grammy Awards, with their hit “Elvira” earning Best Country Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals. They also won two CMA and four ACM Awards, among other accolades. The group was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015, cementing their legacy in the music industry.
Sarah Trahern, CEO of the Country Music Association, shared her thoughts on Bonsall’s 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.”
Bonsall was a talented musician and an accomplished author, having written 11 books. His latest work, a memoir titled “I See Myself,” is set for release in November. His writing often reflected his deep connection to faith and experiences with The Oak Ridge Boys.
In addition to his professional achievements, Bonsall was a family man. He is survived by 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, preceded him in death.
Bonsall’s passing is a significant loss for the music community. His colleagues and fans alike mourn his departure but celebrate his legacy. “He certainly lightened our cares every time he sang,” Young remarked, encapsulating the joy and comfort Bonsall brought to many through his music.
In lieu of a funeral, Bonsall requested that donations be made to The ALS Association or the Vanderbilt Medical Center ALS and Neuroscience Research Center. This gesture reflects his enduring commitment to raising awareness and supporting research for the disease that ultimately took his life.
Bonsall’s death comes just eight days after the passing of William “Rusty” Golden, a musician, songwriter, and son of The Oak Ridge Boys member William Lee Golden. Rusty Golden died at his home in Hendersonville at the age of 65.