Oak Ridge Boys Honor Joe Bonsall In New ‘Promised Land’ Video
Photo: Courtesy of The Oak Ridge Boys
The Oak Ridge Boys are paying tribute to their beloved longtime bandmate and brother Joe Bonsall with a new music video for “Promised Land,” from their album Front Porch Singin’, released in 2021.
With the sudden news of Bonsall’s passing earlier this month, the Oaks’ legions of fans quickly began posting “Promised Land” in his memory. Written by Ashley Monroe, the song resonated with fans originally, and while also mourning the loss of their friend and 50-year bandmate, the Oaks discussed creating the perfect tribute to their brother. William Lee Golden suggested the music video for “Promised Land.”
“I called Ashley Monroe and asked her to write a song for our Front Porch Singin’ album,” shares Duane Allen. “We spoke about what we were looking for. Within a few days, Ashley sent ‘Promised Land.’ I loved it immediately and sent it to David Cobb. He wrote back ‘home run!’ When we got into the studio, the magic happened. David voiced Joe in a lower key than normal so he could almost talk this message. I feel that David captured Joe’s heart and soul. Our ‘OOO’s’ are only heard at the end of this masterpiece.”
Bonsall retired from the road in January 2024 and spent the next few months finishing his personal memoir, I See Myself: Musings and Memories of a Blessed Life, which will be released in mid-November. The Oaks continue to tour the country on their “American Made Farewell Tour,” which is still being booked.
