The Oak Ridge Boys: Celebrating History and Harmony with Classic Hits
The legendary Oak Ridge Boys—comprising Joe Bonsall, Duane Allen, William Lee Golden, and Richard Sterban—recently took to the stage, not just for a performance, but for a special segment brimming with historical reflections and timeless harmonies.
During their appearance, the group shared a memorable historical tidbit: exactly 30 years prior to the taping date, “Bobby Sue” was the number one Billboard Country single, a moment that elicited applause from the audience. The historical revelations continued, with the announcement that 29 years prior, their iconic album “American Made” was certified gold.
Inspired by these anniversaries, The Oak Ridge Boys launched into an impromptu celebration of their classic songs. They kicked off with a heartfelt rendition of “Y’all Come Back Saloon.” The performance evoked vivid imagery, with the “voice soft and trembling” of a singer playing tambourine, surrounded by “smokey halo[s]” and “Fallen Angels.” The song’s narrative about a “Cowboy” and “faded love” resonated deeply, showcasing the group’s storytelling prowess.
Following this, the band transitioned into a powerful performance of the traditional hymn “Life’s Railway to Heaven.” Duane Allen introduced it by noting that their young producer had encouraged them to look back at the roots of old rock and roll legends like Elvis and Jerry Lee Lewis, emphasizing how many, including the Oak Ridge Boys themselves, came out of gospel music. This hymn, with its timeless message of faith and guidance through life’s journey, was delivered with the group’s characteristic blend of heartfelt sincerity and rich harmonies. William Lee Golden’s distinctive bass vocal added a profound depth to the spiritual message, connecting the audience to the rich tradition of gospel music that influenced so many American genres.
They then moved into another beloved hymn, “I’d Rather Have Jesus.” William Lee Golden once again took the lead, his deep voice lending gravitas to the lyrics. The group collectively acknowledged the influence of classic gospel, noting that Jerry Lee Lewis also had a version of this hymn, subtly channeling that spirit into their own rendition. The song beautifully expressed a preference for spiritual richness over worldly wealth and fame, resonating with their gospel roots.
The performance then took a poignant turn with the song “The Dream,” a powerful tribute to sacrifice. The lyrics painted vivid pictures of American heroes: a boy from a Carolina tobacco farm who died in Vietnam, a Navajo Marine serving in the desert, and a Brooklyn fireman tragically lost in a tower on a fateful day. Each verse concluded with the moving line, “Somewhere… died for me, so I can live in the land of free, raise my kids, live my dreams, there’s a price for Liberty, sacrifice for me.” This song served as a powerful reminder of the profound cost of freedom and the sacrifices made by ordinary individuals.
To conclude their set, The Oak Ridge Boys brought the energy back with their upbeat classic, “Elvira.” The catchy tune, famous for its “Giddy Up, Oom Poppa Oom Poppa Mow Mow” refrain and “silver jingle” tambourine, had the audience captivated. The group’s dynamic vocals and engaging stage presence made it clear why “Elvira” remains a fan favorite and a staple of their live shows.
This segment not only showcased The Oak Ridge Boys’ exceptional vocal talents and enduring appeal but also their deep appreciation for music history, their gospel roots, and the profound stories that shape the American spirit.