When given the chance to honor the memory of a late friend, Vince Gill is sure to take it — and he recently did just that at the Grand Ole Opry. His unforgettable performances took place on Wednesday, July 10. On this night, a few others took to the stage. That being said, it was Gill’s heartfelt performances that made the night extra special. That’s because he chose to dedicate his time on stage to his late friend, Joe Bonsall.
As many know, Bonsall was an iconic member of the Oak Ridge Boys, taking on the role of tenor. At some point in Gill and Bonsall’s busy careers, the two of them crossed paths. This led to a years-long friendship, and it’s clearly one that Gill treasures to this day. Sadly, Bonsall passed away on July 9 at 76 years old from complications of the neuromuscular disorder Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
It’s fitting, then, that Gill would have the opportunity to honor his friend so soon after his death. To do just that, the singer started off his time on stage by saying a few words about Bonsall and their friendship.
Vince Gill Honors His Late Friend, the Iconic Joe Bonsall, During Grand Ole Opry Performance
Then, Gill performed an Oak Ridge classic that Bonsall had written: Leaving Louisiana in the Broad Daylight. But Gill’s most memorable performance that night may have been of Elvira. Watch a clip of it below.
@whiskeyriff @Vince Gill #whiskeyriff #grandoleopry #oakridgeboys #elvira ♬ original sound – Whiskey Riff
Also by the Oak Ridge Boys, Elvira was led by Bonsall. It quickly became the band’s most popular hit, skyrocketing to No. 1 in 1981.
Then, to wrap up his Opry performance, Gill chose a song of his own: Go Rest High on That Mountain. This song is all about grieving the loss of someone you love, making it the perfect choice. Needless to say, there wasn’t a dry eye in the audience, or on stage, that night.
What a thoughtful, beautiful tribute for Gill to give for his friend. Rest in peace, Joe Bonsall!
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