The Oak Ridge Boys are celebrating some significant milestones! The band has passed its 50th anniversary, and to honor their long career, they have announced their final tour, the American Made: Farewell Tour. The group, consisting of Duane Allen, Joe Bonsall (who tragically passed away on July 9, 2024), William Lee Golden, and Richard Sterban, aims to show their gratitude to fans for five decades of support with one last, unforgettable series of shows.
Golden shared his thoughts on the tour: “We’re doing a farewell tour because we owe it to our fans to say goodbye. They have always been there for us, through the good and the bad. I’ll always be grateful to everyone who attended our shows, bought a t-shirt, played our music, and supported us enough to spend their hard-earned money when they could. This tour is for you!”
Sherban added, “I want to thank God for 50 years of singing with three of my best friends and for the fans who have stood by us. This is a celebration, and we hope to see you there.” The Oak Ridge Boys are known for their classic hits, including “American Made” (1983), “Bobbie Sue,” “Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight,” and “Elvira.” They are also honored as America’s national anthem singers by the MENC (National Association for Music Educators).
Their impact on gospel and country music has not gone unnoticed. Over their storied career, they have earned numerous accolades, including five Grammys, four Academy of Country Music Awards, and five Billboard Awards, among others. They are enshrined in the Country Music Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, and are members of the legendary Grand Ole Opry.
The Oak Ridge Boys are now adding more dates to their farewell tour as they travel across the country this year in support of their latest album, Mama’s Boys, which was released in November. Golden mentioned, “We’ve had so much fun touring from city to city and getting to see everyone. The response to the new album has been fantastic, and we hope you love it as much as we do. Keep checking our website, as new dates will be added soon!”