The Oak Ridge Boys Honor Joe Bonsall in Poignant “Promised Land” Music Video
The Oak Ridge Boys have released a deeply moving music video for their song “Promised Land,” a track from their 2021 Front Porch Singin’ album. The video serves as a heartfelt eulogy for their beloved bandmate, Joe Bonsall, who sadly passed away earlier this month at 76 from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS).
In the opening scenes of the video, Bonsall himself introduces “Promised Land,” explaining, “It’s a beautiful, beautiful gospel song that [producer] Dave Cobb insisted that we sing, and he insisted that I sing it.” He continues, “Boy, I’ll tell ya, it was a blessing to sing the song.” What began as a joyful reflection on eternal life’s triumph over death has now taken on even more profound meaning after Bonsall’s passing.
A Visual Celebration of a Life in Music
His bandmates used the music video as an opportunity to compile cherished photos and memories of their long-time musical partner and friend. The video weaves together clips of the Oak Ridge Boys’ performances with more intimate, personal photographs of Bonsall. Viewers can see him picking a banjo, suiting up for the stage, working in the studio, and even glimpse moments from his childhood and young adulthood.
Oak Ridge Boys’ bandmate Richard Sterban shared with People (who premiered the video) that “Promised Land” holds special memories of Bonsall for all the members of the group. “‘Promised Land’ is a great example of Joe Bonsall’s ability to capture the message of a great song and communicate that message to the listener,” Sterban stated. “His performance is unforgettable.”
Joe Bonsall’s Final Years and Enduring Legacy
Joe Bonsall retired from touring in January 2024, just a couple of months after the Oaks began their American Made: Farewell Tour. He was replaced by 27-year-old singer Ben James. Bonsall had been open about his health struggles in recent years, notably experiencing a brush with death in 2022 after doctors discovered pulmonary embolisms, leading to a six-day hospital stay. At the time, he tweeted to fans, “I could have easily died last weekend but God is not through with me yet.”
This year has brought multiple tragedies for The Oak Ridge Boys. Just one week before Bonsall’s death, bandmate William Lee Golden announced the passing of his son, William “Rusty” Golden, at age 65.
Bonsall is survived by his wife, Mary Ann, daughters Jennifer and Sabrina, and multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family has requested privacy during this difficult time.
The “Promised Land” music video now stands as a tender tribute, celebrating Joe Bonsall’s remarkable life, his profound impact on country music, and the cherished memories he leaves behind for his bandmates, family, and countless fans.