Farewell to a Legend: Joe Bonsall, Beloved Oak Ridge Boys Tenor, Remembered
HENDERSONVILLE, Tenn. – The world of country and gospel music is mourning the loss of Joe Bonsall, the iconic tenor of The Oak Ridge Boys, who passed away on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, at the age of 76 due to complications from Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). His death follows his retirement from the group’s touring schedule in January of this year, a decision necessitated by his increasing immobility and health challenges.
A statement released on Bonsall’s official website confirmed his passing, celebrating his life: “Joe loved to sing. 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.”
A 50-Year Journey with The Oak Ridge Boys
Bonsall’s remarkable 50-year tenure with The Oak Ridge Boys began in 1973. He became an integral part of the lineup that included Duane Allen (lead), William Lee Golden (baritone), and Richard Sterban (bass), a configuration that would go on to achieve unparalleled success. Their career produced over 30 top-five country hits, nearly half of which became chart-toppers, including “Living in Louisiana,” “Bobby Sue,” “American Made,” and their signature, double-Platinum certified hit from 1981, “Elvira.”
Bonsall’s distinct tenor voice was a cornerstone of the group’s famous harmonies. He fondly recalled the unique vocal power of his bandmate Richard Sterban, joking that “he could say it in Chinese and you know exactly who it’s going to be.”
The Enduring Magic of “Elvira” and Gospel Moments
“Elvira” marked a significant moment in Bonsall’s career as he sang lead on the verses of the crossover pop hit. He recounted how a song plugger, Don Gant, heard a bar band’s version of Rodney Crowell’s “Elvira” and immediately saw its potential for The Oak Ridge Boys. Bonsall noted that his unique interpretation of the verses, distinct from previous versions, was a “good idea” that helped propel the song’s massive success.
Beyond their secular hits, gospel music remained central to Bonsall’s heart. He spoke passionately about the song “Because He Lives,” which he had sung since his early 20s with a group called the Keystones. Upon joining The Oak Ridge Boys, Dwayne Allen encouraged him to continue performing it, recognizing its power. Bonsall recounted a memorable Easter Sunday performance at a Las Vegas casino where he shared a personal testimony and then sang “Because He Lives” with the band, resulting in an overwhelming standing ovation. “The magic of gospel in a big Las Vegas casino, The Oak Ridge Boys have seen that many, many times,” he said.
A Man of Many Passions
Joe Bonsall was a man of diverse talents and interests. He was the author of 11 books, including his most recent memoir, I See Myself, which was released in November last year. He had a deep “affinity and love for the five-string banjo,” an instrument he had been playing for about nine years. He particularly favored the Sonny Osborne Chief banjo and praised the ease of use of the Page capo for quick key changes.
Bonsall was a familiar face at the Grand Ole Opry, often performing from Dressing Room Number One, famously known as the Roy Acuff dressing room. The Oak Ridge Boys were inducted into the Grand Ole Opry in 2011 (though Bonsall mentions 2014 or 2011, implying a long-standing presence).
A Dedicated Family Man and Community Supporter
Family was always paramount to Joe Bonsall. He is survived by his wife, Mary Ann, two daughters, Jennifer and Sabrina, a granddaughter, Brienne, a grandson, Luke, and two great-grandsons, Chance and Grey. He was preceded in death by his parents, Joseph S. Bonsall Sr. and Lillie Bonsall. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
Bonsall also showed a strong connection to his community and a hopeful outlook for future generations. In a message to the “Frankfurt High School class of 2020,” his alma mater, he congratulated them for their future, stating, “I think you’re part of what’s going to help heal this world that we’re living in. I’m optimistic and prayerful. I think everything’s going to be okay and it’s going to be a lot of you guys that go that are going to make it okay.” He shared his love for “Frankfurt High football and Coach Systa,” and encouraged them, “Don’t be scared, be brave.”
He was also a supportive figure to younger artists, notably praising a new album by “The Neelans,” calling it a “fantastic piece of work” and highlighting Amber’s singing of “Shenandoah” as “just awesome.”
Joe Bonsall’s enduring spirit, powerful voice, and immense heart will be deeply missed by his family, friends, colleagues, and the countless fans he touched throughout his illustrious career. May he rest in eternal peace.