The Oak Ridge Boys‘ music video for their song “Promised Land” — a selection from the group’s 2021 Front Porch Singin’ album — eulogizes their bandmate Joe Bonsall, who died from complications of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) earlier this month.

“It’s a beautiful, beautiful gospel song that [producer] Dave Cobb insisted that we sing, and he insisted that I sing it,” Bonsall says in the opening scenes of the music video, by way of introducing “Promised Land.”

“Boy, I’ll tell ya, it was a blessing to sing the song,” he continues in the clip.

What began as a joyful meditation on eternal life’s transcendence over death became even more meaningful after Bonsall’s passing at the age of 76. Now, his bandmates used the music video as an opportunity to compile favorite photos and memories of their longtime musical partner and friend.

The video features clips of Oak Ridge Boys performances, as well as more intimate photos of Bonsall picking a banjo, suiting up for the stage and working in the studio.

There are also personal photographs sprinkled into the video, including photos from Bonsall’s childhood and young adulthood.

Oaks bandmate Richard Sterban tells People — who premiered the video — that the song holds special memories of Bonsall for all the members of the group.

“‘Promised Land’ is a great example of Joe Bonsall’s ability to capture the message of a great song and communicate that message to the listener,” Sterban says. “His performance is unforgettable.”

More About Joe Bonsall’s Illness and Death

Prior to his death on July 9, Bonsall retired from touring in January 2024, just a couple of months after the Oaks kicked off their American Made: Farewell Tour. He was replaced by a 27-year-old singer named Ben James.

Bonsall was open about his health struggles over the last few years: He had a brush with death in 2022 after doctors found pulmonary embolisms, resulting in a six-day hospital stay.

“I could have easily died last weekend but God is not through with me yet,” he told fans in a tweet afterward.

This year has brought multiple tragedies for the Oaks. Just one week before Bonsall’s death, bandmate William Golden announced the death of his son, William “Rusty” Golden, who died at age 65 at his Nashville-area home.

Bonsall was survived by his wife Mary Ann, daughters Jennifer and Sabrina and multiple grandchildren and great-grandchildren. The family requested privacy as they grieved his loss.

Carena Liptak is an Associate Editor and staff writer at Taste of Country. She specializes in breaking country music news, interviews and lists. In particular, she’s got a soft spot for sad songs — check out her roundup of the 50 Saddest Country Songs of All Time!