Reba McEntire Shares Tribute to Joe BonsallStephen Lovekin – Getty Images
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The country music world is mourning the loss of Joe Bonsall, member of the iconic Oak Ridge Boys. Joe passed away on July 9 due to complications from ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis). He was 76 years old.
Joe joined the country vocal quartet in 1973. The band, renowned for hits like “Elvira” and “Bobbie Sue,” is in the midst of a farewell tour. Joe’s illness caused him to step away from the tour in January. At the time, the band announced on Instagram that Ben James would be taking his place.
According to a post by the official Oak Ridge Boys Instagram account, “Joe was a member of the Grand Ole Opry and inducted into the Philadelphia Music Hall of Fame, the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and the prestigious Country Music Hall of Fame.” He also authored 11 books, including a memoir, I See Myself: Musings and Memories of a Blessed Life, due out in November.
Reba McEntire, who has been friends with Joe for years, shared a heartfelt tribute to the singer on Instagram. Reba shared the stage with the band during the 1987 “Thanks for Caring”TV special, and they honored President George H.W. Bush at his 2018 funeral.
She shared a photo with Joe from the 5th Annual ACM Honors in 2011 and wrote, “Joe, you were a terrific entertainer, singer, and a wonderful friend! I’ll sure miss your smiling face and your bubbly personality. I can’t wait to see you again. Love, Reba.”
Mike Coppola – Getty Images
Blake Shelton shared a message on X (formerly Twitter), saying, “I’m heartbroken to hear of my friend Joe Bonsalls passing. I’ve NEVER seen Joe when he wasn’t smiling and completely full of life. He absolutely loved singing like no one I ever met. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and his @oakridgeboys brothers. We all lost a special person today.”
The Oak Ridge Boys: American Made Farewell tour resumes at the end of July. Our hearts go out to Joe’s family and friends during this difficult time.
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