Joe Bonsall, a long-standing member of the Grammy-winning country and gospel quartet, the Oak Ridge Boys, has announced his retirement from touring after an impressive 50-year career with the group. Bonsall, known for his tenor vocals, made this difficult decision due to a neuromuscular disorder that has progressively affected his ability to walk. In a heartfelt statement shared on social media, he explained that his condition had reached a point where touring had become impossible.
Bonsall’s retirement comes at a pivotal time, as the Oak Ridge Boys were in the midst of their American Made Farewell tour, intending to bid farewell to their devoted fans. In light of Joe Bonsall’s retirement, the group has made the decision to replace him with the 27-year-old singer-songwriter Ben James.
In his statement, Bonsall expressed his gratitude to the band and crew for their unwavering love, support, and prayers throughout his journey. He also encouraged fans to embrace and support his replacement, Ben James, acknowledging that while James’s vocal style may differ from his own, he brings a wealth of talent to the group. Bonsall’s parting message reassured fans that the Oak Ridge Boys would continue their Farewell Tour without him, expressing his contentment with this decision and emphasizing his belief that “God’s Got It.”
Joe Bonsall’s association with the Oak Ridge Boys began in 1973, following his stint with the Keystones. He joined the group during a period of significant mainstream success in the 1970s and 1980s, contributing to their rise in popularity. The Oak Ridge Boys’ journey as a musical ensemble dates back to the mid-1940s in Oak Ridge, Tennessee. They adopted their current moniker in 1945 and were primarily known in gospel circles for many years.
However, their trajectory changed when they caught the attention of renowned country artist manager Jim Halsey, around the time Joe Bonsall joined the group. This marked the quartet’s transition into country and mainstream music. Over the years, they collaborated with a wide array of notable artists, including Paul Simon, Brenda Lee, Johnny Cash, Roy Rogers, Billy Ray Cyrus, Bill Monroe, and Ray Charles.
During Joe Bonsall’s tenure as the group’s tenor, the Oak Ridge Boys achieved significant success, with crossover hits like “Bobbie Sue” and “Elvira” climbing to No. 12 and No. 5, respectively, on the Billboard Hot 100 chart. Their journey also saw several singles topping the Billboard country music charts, including “I Guess It Never Hurts to Hurt Sometimes,” “This Crazy Love,” “It Takes a Little Rain,” and “No Matter How High.”
Joe Bonsall’s retirement from the Oak Ridge Boys after five decades of dedicated service is a poignant moment in the group’s history. His departure is prompted by the challenges posed by a neuromuscular disorder that has affected his mobility. Despite this significant change, the Oak Ridge Boys are determined to continue their Farewell Tour with Ben James as Bonsall’s replacement, carrying forward their rich legacy in country and gospel music. Joe Bonsall’s contribution to the group’s iconic sound and success over the years will undoubtedly be cherished by fans and remembered as an integral part of their enduring journey in the world of music.
