Blake Shelton shared a touching tribute to his longtime friend Joe Bonsall, a legendary member of The Oak Ridge Boys, who passed away in 2024. Bonsall, who was part of the iconic country group from 1973 to 2024, left an indelible mark on the music world and the hearts of those who knew him. Shelton took to Instagram Stories to express his grief, posting a photo of the two singing together. “I’m heartbroken to hear of my friend Joe Bonsall’s death,” Shelton wrote. “I’ve NEVER seen Joe when he wasn’t smiling and completely full of life. He loved singing more than anyone I’ve ever met.”

Joe Bonsall passed away after a battle with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), a debilitating disease that affects voluntary muscle movement. Fans learned about his diagnosis in January 2024, although he had been quietly fighting the illness for four years. He is survived by his wife Mary Ann, their daughters Jennifer and Sabrina, and a large extended family that includes grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

In addition to his musical achievements, Bonsall was also a talented author, with his memoir, I See Myself, set to be released in November. The Oak Ridge Boys, best known for their hits like “Elvira” and “Bobbie Sue,” continue their American Made: The Farewell Tour in honor of Bonsall’s lasting legacy.