NASHVILLE, Tenn. – GRAMMY® Award-winning and Country Music Hall of Fame members The Oak Ridge Boys pay tribute to their beloved Joe Bonsall with the new music video for “Promised Land,” from their album ‘Front Porch Singin’’ released by Lightning Rod Records in 2021. “Promised Land,” written by Ashley Monroe resonated with fans originally, and with the sudden news of Bonsall’s passing, the Oaks’ legions of fans quickly began posting the song in Joe’s memory. While also mourning the loss of their friend and fifty-year bandmate, the Oaks discussed creating the perfect tribute to their brother, and William Lee Golden suggested a music video for “Promised Land.” The video, directed by Brandon Wood / IndieBling was premiered by People.com.
“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.”
Promised Land
Don’t weep for me when I’m dead and gone
For I’ll just be going home
Heaven’s light will shine on me
It will lead me to Eternity
When I take my final breath
Lay these feeble bones to rest
And I will run through Heaven’s gates
Where my blessed Savior waits
[Chorus]
And He will take me by my hand
And I’ll be happier than I’ve ever been
Now don’t you worry, we’ll meet again
And stay together in the Promised Land
And I will hear my momma sing
Feel my daddy’s arms holding me
And I will cry tears of joy
When I see friends who’ve gone before.
[Chorus]
And He will take me by my hand
And I’ll be happier than I’ve ever been
Now don’t you worry, we’ll meet again
And stay together in the Promised Land
The Oak Ridge Boys continue to tour the country on their American Made Farewell Tour, which is still being booked. The Boys were also excited to launch their new website recently with a new look, store, videos, and more!
The Oak Ridge Boys have received four Academy of Country Music, two American Music, five Billboard, four Country Music Association, five Grammy, and twelve Gospel Music Association Dove awards, to name a few. They are members of the Grand Ole Opry, the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame, and the Country Music Hall of Fame. They have achieved seventeen #1 hits, including “Leaving Louisiana In The Broad Daylight,” “Bobbie Sue,” “Trying To Love Two Women,” “(I’m Settin’) Fancy Free,” “American Made,” and the unforgettable “Elvira.” With an astounding thirty-seven Top 20 country hits, with twelve gold, three platinum, and one double-platinum album, The Oak Ridge Boys have long made their mark in every facet of the gospel, pop, and country music industry.
William Lee Golden (1965) and Duane Allen (1966) joined the group in the late sixties, followed by Richard Sterban in 1972 and Joe Bonsall in 1973. Ben James joined in January 2024 following Bonsall’s retirement.
Joe 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.
