In a heartfelt statement, Joe Bonsall, member of the iconic country group The Oak Ridge Boys, announced his retirement from touring due to ongoing health issues. After entertaining audiences for 50 years with his signature tenor voice and charismatic stage presence, Bonsall shared that a neuromuscular disorder has made walking impossible for him. He expressed gratitude towards his bandmates and the Oak Ridge Boys' crew for their unwavering support throughout his career.

This retirement marks a significant change in the lineup of the group, as Bonsall, along with Duane Allen, William Lee Golden, and Richard Sterban, have been the core members for the past five decades. The only exception was during an eight-year period when the late Steve Sanders replaced Golden.

With Bonsall stepping down, the Oak Ridge Boys have introduced Ben James as his touring replacement. James, a talented 27-year-old singer known for his work with Doyle Lawson's band Quicksilver and Dailey & Vincent's band, was officially welcomed into the group by Bonsall himself. Although James brings a different sound to the table, Bonsall expressed confidence in his talent and encouraged fans to show their love and support for the young artist.

James's first show with The Oak Ridge Boys took place on December 30, 2022, in Wheeling, West Virginia, where the group shared the bill with Dailey & Vincent. Reflecting on the experience, James recounted the memorable moment when Bonsall handed him the mic to sing the next verse of their timeless hit, "Elvira," a song that had resonated with him since childhood.

Looking towards the future, The Oak Ridge Boys previously announced their farewell tour, The Oak Ridge Boys American Made Farewell Tour, which is set to take place in 2024. The group has a full slate of shows lined up, including performances at prestigious venues such as The Grand 1894 Opera House in Galveston, Texas, and the Montgomery Performing Arts Centre in Montgomery, Alabama. Additionally, they are scheduled to return to the studio later this month to work on new music with acclaimed producer Dave Cobb.

The Oak Ridge Boys have left an indelible mark on country music, with more than a dozen No. 1 Hot Country Songs hits, including their iconic 1981 hit "Elvira." Alongside their musical accomplishments, the group has received five Grammy awards, solidifying their place in country music history.

As fans bid farewell to Joe Bonsall's touring days, they can look forward to a new chapter for The Oak Ridge Boys. With the addition of Ben James, the group continues to carry their legacy forward, bringing their timeless music to audiences around the world.