Please include what you were doing when this page came up and the Cloudflare Ray ID found at the bottom of this page. 1 hit, Billboard reported. The Oak Ridge Boys. April 17, 2020 @ Suits in hand, the men will board a private jet. DVDs Blu-ray VHS. I never heard that name until this article- looks like he had a pretty good career doing what he wanted to do. Click to reveal @oakridgeboys. 8:32 am. Friend and brother Jeff Cook of Alabama has passed. In Part 1 of our interview series with long-time member of the Oak Ridge Boys Duane Allen, we covered a lot of ground, including the musical evolution of his group since its gospel-roots inception in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, in 1943; practical joking among group members All Content 2023 The Oak Ridge Boys. On Friday, May 21, they released their next single, Swing Down Chariot, from their upcoming album "Front Porch Singin.'" The former Oak Ridge Boys member was not just a singer, but a man of many talents. Goodbye, Jeff. The Oak Ridge Boys are still at it, with a new CD of hymns and gospels called Rock of Ages. They became popular in southern gospel during the 1950s. You can find out more about our use, change your default settings, and withdraw your consent at any time with effect for the future by visiting Cookies Settings, which can also be found in the footer of the site. Books Magazines. The Grand Ole Opry members. In addition to being a member of these influential musical groups, Mcspadden was a songwriter who gave us many recognizable gospel tunes including "Jesus Lord To Me," and "No Other Name But Jesus." The Oak Ridge Boys members Duane Allen, left, Joe Bonsall, William Lee Golden and Richard Sterban, right, along with presenter Ronnie Milsap, second from right, are celebrating their Single of the . Questions or ready to book? Fox, who moved on to run the group's publishing arm and later became a high-ranking music executive, passed away in April 2003. Christmas Like Mama Used To Make; 12. The Oak Ridge Boys Share Hilarious Memory of Taking a Punch from 'A Drunk Cowboy'. Official website for The Oak Ridge Boys, including tour dates, discographies, biography and facts, fan club information, and merchandise for sale. Gospel singers and a cappella groups frequently exhibit some remarkable vocal ranges. However, they bounced back and collaborated with Nashville's super-producer Dave Cobb for their 2021 album Front Porch Singin. I dont know if Ive ever played it the same way twice. He said he thought he probably had played a Music Man brand guitar on the studio version of that solo. As most of you know Gary and I have been in Tulsa at the Cancer Treatment Center of America, his wife Carol posted. I loved his music in the 90s and still listen to his gospel music today. Jimmy Fortune to Undergo Bypass Surgery to Correct Concerning Heart Issues, Oak Ridge Boys Richard Sterban to Miss Opry Show Due to Injury, The Oak Ridge Boys Duane Allen Reflects on the Christmas Song That Almost Wasnt, Oak Ridge Boys Joe Bonsall: I Could Have Easily Died Last Weekend, Oak Ridge Boys Joe Bonsall Thanks Fans for Prayers as Health Issues Force Him to Sit Out Shows. Local: (417) 544-1944 Book Now! See Kris Kristofferson Reunite With Johnny Cashs. By the early 2000s Gary had become a fixture of the Branson, Missouri Gospel scene, and mentored numerous artists, including Lauren Mascitti, who Saving Country Music recently featured. Our deepest condolences to the McSpadden family. The photo here is the same photo of Steve that also died. Use of and/or registration on any portion of this site constitutes acceptance of our User Agreement, Privacy Policy and Cookie Statement, and Your Privacy Choices and Rights (each updated 1/26/2023). As most of you know Gary and I have been in Tulsa at the Cancer Treatment Center of America. Billy R. Smith, Jr., their longtime bus driver, passed away unexpectedly on Sunday (Sept. 21). With the Oak Ridge Boys, you have performed 41 consecutive times at the Kentucky State Fair - setting a record. His time in the Oak Ridge Boys may not have been the biggest part of his career, but it is what makes him relevant to the country music world, and he was there when they officially changed their name, and released their first major label records. April 16, 2020 @ Here are some highlights from our conversation, edited for clarity and brevity. Then, just three days after Gary's death, Duane lost his beloved sister-in-law, Margie. McSpadden was a former member of The Oak Ridge Boys, The Imperials, The Gaither Trio, and Gaither Vocal Band, with musical roots in quartet music and southern gospel. Indeed, fans flooded Joe's Twitter page when news began to spread that the country music legend had to go under the . Rebecca Angel Baer is the Senior Digital Editor, with a strong focus on News. Ron Harper Oak Ridge Boys Member Gary McSpadden Has Died, Country Rapper Katie Noel Goes Viral with Southern (A Rant), Luke Combs Agrees on Saving Country Musics 2022 Song of the Year, Country Engineer Mark Capps, Son of Jimmy Capps, Killed by Police. It's not good if you have a heart attack, but it's great if you want to sit on the porch by yourself and pick banjo for coyotes. By the late '60s, with more than 30 members having come and gone, they had a lineup that included Duane Allen, William Lee Golden, Noel Fox and Willie Wynn. You had to blow people away to sell records and . The whole thing makes sense. This website is using a security service to protect itself from online attacks. (Intro: Away In A Manger) 10. The former Oak Ridge Boys singer died from a self-inflicted gunshot to the head, according to reports. 1 . And boy did it change, he quipped. . Sad news! Les Coughran He parted ways with the group in November of 1995 after years of ongoing legal and personal battles between Sanders, his first wife and his second wife began to draw unwanted headlines and negative publicity. "We extend sincere condolences to Richard Sterban and his family on. Joseph Sloan Bonsall Jr. is an American singer who has been the tenor of the country/gospel vocal quartet The Oak Ridge Boys since April 1973. . We will be communicating those plans as they develop.. 2,458 Following. Members of The Grand Ole OPRY and The Country Music Hall of Fame. Ive noticed this all my life in writing songs, theres a thing called feel, and its magic when you get ahold of it, Frazier said. Your email address will not be published. Get concert tickets, news and RSVP to shows with Bandsintown. April 18, 2020 @ We've received your submission. When Bush, the nation's 41st president, passed away Friday, Oak Ridge Boys members were ready to show up whenever they were needed. However, they bounced back and collaborated with Nashville's super-producer Dave Cobb for their 2021 album Front Porch Singin. Jimbeau Hinson, the acclaimed country songwriter for Oak Ridge Boys, Steve Earle, and more, has passed away. One of the largest independent Christian music companies, Gaither Music Group also took to Twitter to pay tribute to McSpadden. Goodbye, Jeff. Despite all of the pain he has suffered, Duane knows he will get through it. Subscribe to our newsletter for new stories, tips & events. Oak Ridge Boys singer Joe Bonsall has revealed that he recently suffered a near-fatal health scare. Jeff was a sweet, sweet man and a hugely influential musician for us Alabama folks. The Oak Ridge Boys were unable to pursue their musical career in 2020 due to the pandemic. For the Record He lived a beautiful life of a beautiful mind.. He will be truly missed., Americana superstar and fellow Alabama native Jason Isbell posted, Such sad news. He was my hero and I was fortunate to get a very cool 'Old Man' as my dad. The American country and gospel group, The Oak Ridge Boys, started gaining traction in the '50s. We knew this week that God had a plan and his healing would be here on earth or in heaven," she said, and added that he passed peacefully, surrounded by family. And the ability to entertain people, not necessarily just when youre singing., Cooked credited Alabamas musical longevity partly to the familial connected between he and his [distant] cousins: Owen, the bands charismatic frontman, and affable bassist Gentry. GOSPEL MUSIC HOF INDUCTION with former OAKS in 2000 #ThrowbackThursday Top L-R Gary McSpadden @joebonsall @DUANEALLEN @wlgolden @RASterban Jim Hamill Noel Fox Bottom L-R Tommy Fairchild Calvin Newton Willie Wynn Lon Deacon Freeman Ron Page pic.twitter.com/7DOv15sCmZ, The Oak Ridge Boys (@oakridgeboys) April 16, 2020. After five months with The Statesman, McSpadden joined what at the time was called The Oak Ridge Quartet at the critical moment when the group signed with Warner Bros. Records and officially became known as The Oak Ridge Boys. Sales. Preached a two week meeting for them as a boy-preacher (16 -17 yrs old) in Ponca City, OK. McSpadden was diagnosed with cancer earlier this year, and his condition quickly worsened, Classic Country Music reported. But the original inspiration came from a street sign, which a lot of people dont realize. 3:33 am, Kathy Phillips STUNNING NEWS Lisa Marie ELVIS only daughter has passed away at age 54 wow #RIPLisaMarie 13 Jan 2023 01:57:28 Life on the road ended for the Oak Ridge Boys in March, but . . Duane cared for Fred deeply, and said he was aHERO in his life. The easiest thing was singing together.. Years ago his wife had cancer and he asked for prayers for her. As the wonderful, deep bass voice featured in iconic Oak Ridge Boys classics like, "Elvira," he helps to round out their unique and trendsetting sound. (Rick Diamond/Getty Images for GMA). Please enjoy that song below. During the 1970s and 1980s alone, they achieved an impressive total of 30 chart-topping country hits. In the early 70s, guitarist Jeff Cook started a band called Wildcountry with his cousins, and five years later the band changed their name to Alabama. Today's Birthdays: Recent Deaths: New Listings: Living Oscar Winners: Oldest Living Major Leaguers: Alive in Baseball Hall of Fame: Dead Playboy Playmates 1 country hits alongside Frazier and Owens, including (Im So) Afraid of Losing You Again, in 1969, I Cant Believe That Youve Stopped Loving Me, in1970, and Then Who Am I, in 1974. This has been a quick and difficult journey we have been on. Well known . Born in 1952 in Richland, Ga., Sanders got his start in the entertainment business as a child singing gospel music. He was eventually inducted into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame with Duane and other members in 2000. The Oak Ridge Boys wereinductedinto the Country Music Hall of Fame in 2015. I would like to thank all the Faith and Wisdom Church family and all the many friends who have prayed with us during this time, she said. He is also an author. According to his obituary, he passed away on December 28, 2020. The Oak Ridge Boys. With Richard Sterban doing his thing on it and the horns just making it first classit had so much magic in it, itd just raise the hair on your arms., Terry Wyatt/Getty Images for Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum, Getty Images for Country MusicHall of Fame and Museum, 2023 NYP Holdings, Inc. 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Lots of time wed start 8:30 or nine oclock in the morning and play until one oclock (a.m.) with a lunch break around six. The Fort Payne High School grad and former Gadsden State Community College student is also a member of the Musicians Hall of Fame and Fiddlers Hall of Fame and a Gibsons Guitarist of the Year honoree. Due to extenuating circumstances with COVID-19, we are working on plans for a celebration of life at a later date. Elvira had the feel. Hendersonville, Tennessee orcd.co/frontporchsing. 3.4K views, 78 likes, 6 loves, 2 comments, 16 shares, Facebook Watch Videos from Center Stage Magazine: ELVIS PRESLEY passed away on this day back in 1977. day is a gift when he listened to a classic country station and counted eight consecutive songs by artists who had passed away. Their name was changed to the Oak Ridge Boys in the early 1960s, and they remained a gospel group until the mid-1970s, when they changed their image and concentrated on . Silver Bells; 11. Later in his career, Gary McSpadden continued to work as a pastor, and hosted multiple live and televised music shows, and also worked as a producer for multiple bands and artists. well-respected journalist, and radio broadcaster Chuck Dauphin has passed away. The Oak Ridge Boys are an American country and gospel vocal quartet. 10:01 pm. Paul Simon enlisted the group to sing harmony on his 1977-1978 international pop hit "Slip Slidin' Away." The quartet's voices could also be heard on Brenda Lee's Grammy-nominated . We are sad to report that former Oak Ridge Boy, Gary McSpadden died on April 15, after a battle with pancreatic cancer. Now that [high-pitched] voice continued until I was in seventh grade. Learn more about the "Mother Church" of country music inRyman 130: The Evolution of an Icon! he is the play-by-play voice for Clinton High School football, boys' and girls' basketball and baseball. This includes personalizing content and advertising. Our good friend Gary McSpadden passed away this morning, the group wrote. Steve Sanders left behind a successful career and a troubled personal legacy when he died on June 10, 1998. The group itself has existed in some incarnation for 70 years, with over 25 singers shuffling through the lineup. McSpadden was 77 years old. Duane dedicated a full LinkedIn post to Margie after her passing, titled, REST IN PEACE, MY BEAUTIFUL SISTER-IN-LAW!!!!! Best price! Oak Ridge Boys Duane Allen: 'We're Four Peterbilt Trucks Coming Right At You'. So they put me in the second bass section. 10:36 am. ! McSpadden passed away on Wednesday, April 15th at the Cancer Treatment Center of America in Tulsa, Oklahoma. When I do that part in person, I look out in the audience and see all the men trying to sing along with me., Believe it or not, Sterban first started singing as a Soprano as a child in his church choir. He certainly sounds like he was a fine man. The nearest person is about 3 miles away. April 17, 2020 @ Next was the Oak Ridge Quartet, that soon thereafter became who we know now as the Oak Ridge Boys. Gifts. blog post. According to Alabamas statement, Cook is survived by his wife of 27 years Lisa Cook, his mother Betty Cook, brother David Cook, Crystal Cook, his father-in-law Jerrial Williams, his brother-in-law Randy Williams and many nieces and nephews. The Oak Ridge Boys are mourning the loss of one of their own. blog post, Duane spoke about the hurt hes been feeling after losing his brother, friend, and sister-in-law in such a short amount of time. Our hearts and prayers go out to Duane and his family during this sad time. Gary was an incredible person., (L-R) Christian music singers Bill Gaither, Gary McSpadden, and Shawn McSpadden attend the GMA Honors Celebration and Hall of Fame Induction at the Allen Arena at Lipscomb University in Nashville, Tennessee, on April 29, 2014. He was 82. Photos provided The Oak Ridge Boys are celebrating the 40th anniversary of their hit song, "Elvira." Richard Sterban, far right, spoke with the News Press about the song's history and what's . Oak Ridge Boys Member Gary McSpadden Has Died Trigger News 13 Comments Gospel singer and songwriter Gary McSpadden has died after a battle with pancreatic Cancer.