Joe Bonsall, a 50-year member of the Country Music Hall of Fame group the Oak Ridge Boys, passed away on Tuesday due to complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis at the age of 76.
Among fellow music artists mourning Bonsall’s death was Blake Shelton, who shared his condolences on social media. Shelton described Bonsall as always smiling and full of life, expressing his admiration for Bonsall’s passion for singing. He extended thoughts and prayers to Bonsall’s family and Oak Ridge Boys brothers.
A tenor singer with the Oak Ridge Boys, Bonsall announced his retirement from touring in January due to health issues. Ben James, formerly with Dailey & Vincent, took over Bonsall’s role in the touring lineup.
“Many of you know I have been battling a slow onset (over four years now) of a neuromuscular disorder,” Bonsall stated in his retirement announcement.
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“I am now at a point where walking is impossible, so I have basically retired from the road. It has just gotten too difficult. It has been a great 50 years, and I am thankful to all the Oak Ridge Boys, band, crew, and staff for the constant love and support shown to me through it all. I will never forget, and for those of you who have been constantly holding me up in prayer, I thank you and ask for you to keep on praying.”
In the same statement, Bonsall encouraged people to support his replacement, Ben James, in the Oak Ridge Boys, managed for decades by Jim Halsey based in Tulsa.
“God love you, Joe Bonsall,” Halsey said. “You have been an inspiration to fans, friends, and family — especially to me — for 52 years. This is a very rough day.”
Bonsall, a member of the Grand Ole Opry, is also honored in the Philadelphia Music Hall of Fame, the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, and the Vocal Group Hall of Fame besides his induction into the Country Music Hall of Fame.
During the band’s peak in the ’80s and beyond, Bonsall contributed to hits like “Elvira,” “Bobbie Sue,” and “American Made,” marking significant achievements for the group.
“For 50 years, Joe Bonsall was the Oak Ridge Boys’ sparkplug. His tenor voice was high and clear, and his jovial spirit always provided a jolt of energy, immediately rousing audiences to come on in and take a load off,” said Kyle Young, CEO of the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum.