### Musicians and Friends Remember Oak Ridge Boys’ Joe Bonsall
Joe Bonsall, known for his unmistakable voice and boundless energy, has left an irreplaceable legacy in the music world. His passionate performances captivated audiences, and he gave every show his all, treating each performance as if it were his last. But for his long-time friends and bandmates, it wasn’t just his musical talent that made Joe unforgettable – it was his heart and his personality.
For country music stars like TG Sheppard and Kelly Lang, who toured with Joe for many years, the connection went far beyond music. Their bond formed through countless hours on the road, recording albums, and living life together. Kelly Lang fondly recalls how The Oak Ridge Boys, including Joe, attended her wedding, further cementing their close friendship.
Joe had a rare ability to make everyone around him feel loved. You could always tell what he was thinking because he was open and sincere. His presence made people feel special, and his infectious laugh became one of his signature traits. His energy was contagious, and it was rare to see him in a bad mood.
T. Graham Brown, who toured with Joe in the 1980s, echoed similar sentiments, describing Joe as a regular, down-to-earth guy who never let fame get to his head. He was a humble member of the Oak Ridge Boys, who saw their career transform from striving for success to becoming icons in country music. Joe played a key role in their rise, contributing to the band’s Grammy-winning career and millions of album sales. One of their most iconic songs, “Elvira,” became a hit that people still remember, with fans eagerly awaiting the moment Richard Sterban would shout “Papa!” during the performance.
Sadly, despite Joe’s vibrant personality, his health began to decline in the final years of his life. Friends and bandmates were devastated by his passing, especially knowing that his illness, ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), was so cruelly ironic for someone who had such a dynamic presence and boundless energy on stage. Despite his health struggles, Joe never complained and continued to perform with determination and joy, right up until his body couldn’t keep up anymore. The last time one of his bandmates spoke with him, they had to help support him physically, but Joe’s spirit and love for his craft never wavered.
The loss of Joe Bonsall is felt deeply by all who knew him. His musical talent was indescribable, and his legacy will live on forever. But for those closest to him, this loss will be particularly hard to bear.
With heartfelt tributes, his friends and fellow musicians continue to remember him for the incredible impact he made both as an artist and a person. Joe’s spirit and influence will undoubtedly endure, but the pain of losing such a bright light will remain for some time.
Video
https://youtu.be/ji2zrgY19sM?si=e3S70Z5emSQdVh-x