Blake Shelton Remembers Oak Ridge Boys’ Joe Bonsall Following His Passing
Blake Shelton has shared an emotional tribute following the death of Joe Bonsall, a beloved member of the legendary country and gospel group, The Oak Ridge Boys. Joe, who was with the band from 1973 until his passing in 2024, passed away after a battle with ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis), a devastating neuromuscular disease that affects voluntary muscles.
In a heartfelt message posted to his Instagram Stories on Tuesday, Blake wrote, “I’m heartbroken to hear of my friend Joe Bonsall’s death. I have never seen Joe without a smile on his face, and a genuine smile at that. He loved singing more than anyone I’ve ever met.”
Blake, who collaborated with The Oak Ridge Boys on the 2016 song “Doing It to Country Songs,” further shared his condolences, saying, “His brothers at @theoakridgeboys and his family are in my prayers. We have all lost someone significant today.”
Joe’s passing leaves a void not only in the music world but also in the hearts of those who knew him. Despite his battle with ALS, which he publicly disclosed in January 2024, Joe remained an integral part of The Oak Ridge Boys until his departure from the group. Fans had learned about his diagnosis earlier that year, marking a difficult moment for his family, friends, and fans alike.
Born in 1948, Joe was not only a talented musician but also a prolific author, with 11 books to his name. His upcoming memoir, I See Myself, is set to be released in November. The statement from the Bonsall family shared, “Joseph is also the author of 11 books, including his upcoming memoir… He had a great time throughout his stay on the farm. He was a baseball fan of the Philadelphia Phillies. But Jesus and his family always came first, and we will see him again on the Promised Day.”
Joe’s passion for music was matched only by his love of life, and he was an essential member of The Oak Ridge Boys, known for their hits like “Elvira,” “Come On In,” and “Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight.” His warm, joyful presence was a staple in the band’s performances for decades. The Oak Ridge Boys, which included Joe along with Richard Sterban, Duane Allen, and William Lee Golden, were inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015 and had won five Grammy Awards.
The Oak Ridge Boys are currently on their American Made: The Farewell tour, which runs through December 8. Despite his passing, Joe’s legacy and music continue to live on through the band and the countless lives he touched.
Joe’s family, friends, and fans will forever remember him not only for his musical talent but also for his unshakable faith, his joy for life, and his deep love for his family. He will be greatly missed by all who knew him, but his spirit and music will endure.
